Amy Leisenring, Ph.D.
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Pronouns - She, Her, Hers |
Associate Dean of Student Success, College of Graduate Studies
Doctor of Philosophy, Sociology, University Of Colorado, 2004
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About Amy
Amy Leisenring became Associate Dean of Inclusive Student Success for the College of Graduate Studies in March 2020. She has been deeply committed to both undergraduate and graduate student success since joining SJSU in 2005. Prior to joining the College of Graduate Studies she was a professor of sociology. She served as Graduate Coordinator for the M.A. Program in Sociology from 2013-2017 and as Associate Chair of the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from 2015-2016. She also served as the faculty director for ACCESS, the advising and success center for the College of Social Sciences, from 2016 to 2020. She received her B.A. in Sociology from Miami University of Ohio (1994), her M.A. in Sociology from New Mexico State University (1998), and her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Colorado (2004), where she also received certification in Women's Studies and Graduate Teacher Training.
Fun Facts
What are your interests/hobbies?
Hiking, biking, gardening, cooking, reading, and exploring California.
What is cool about your job or about working for SJSU?
The best part about working for SJSU is definitely the amazing people that I have encountered. In my 21 years at SJSU, I have worked with so many dedicated, hard-working, and inspirational students, faculty, and staff.
What advice would you give to graduate students?
Be curious and open to new ideas and opportunities. Get to know your professors and your classmates. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Take advantage of the resources available to you. Work hard but make sure to take care of yourself.
What inspires/motivates you? You can also provide your favorite inspirational/motivational quote.
I am motivated by a desire to keep learning. One of my favorite quotes is from Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
