Shelly Kotynek Named Executive Director of University and Exploratory Advising at USU

LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University has appointed Shelly Kotynek as the executive director of university and exploratory advising, following a successful tenure as interim executive director. With a career at USU spanning over 16 years, Kotynek brings extensive experience and a commitment to enhancing student success through a strengths-based, holistic approach to advising.

Janet Anderson, interim vice president for student success, expressed her excitement about Kotynek’s new role.

“She is well-prepared and poised to lead our advising community of about 100 academic advisors across the USU system through onboarding and professional development,” Anderson said. “Her commitment to serving undeclared students is unparalleled.”

Kotynek echoed her enthusiasm.

“I’m truly honored to lead Utah State University’s Office of University and Exploratory Advising,” Kotynek said. "Joining the advising community here over 16 years ago, I've had the privilege of working alongside and learning from some incredible, caring, and dedicated professionals. My approach combines a strengths-based, holistic view with a deep commitment to building and supporting our advising community. As executive director, my goal is to foster collaboration and implement strategies that support our advisors and, ultimately, empower our students to succeed.”

Throughout her career, Kotynek has held numerous roles in advising, including serving as director of the Quinney College of Natural Resources Academic Advising and Service Center, where she managed advising programs, co-curricular development, and scholarship processes for the college. More recently, she led professional development initiatives across USU's statewide advising community and contributed to the success of various advising programs and training frameworks.

Kotynek holds a master of science in psychology with an emphasis in school counseling from Utah State University, and a bachelor of science in dietetics from Southern Illinois University. She is a certified Clifton Strengths Coach and a NASPA Certified Peer Educator Trainer, dedicated to fostering inclusivity and student-focused advising excellence.

For more information, visit the Utah State University Office of University and Exploratory Advising website.