Turning Insight Into Impact
Student Affairs Research and Assessment advances the mission of Penn State by transforming data into understanding and action. We evaluate programs, measure learning outcomes, and assess the student experience to ensure every initiative supports growth, engagement, and success.
Through collaboration across the division, our team provides evidence-based insights that shape decision-making, strengthen programs, and demonstrate the value of cocurricular learning. Our goal is simple — to use research to enhance how we serve students and help them thrive.
Providing a PULSE on Campus
PULSE surveys gather student feedback on their experiences, perceptions, and engagement — helping us understand student needs, track changes over time, and shape programs, services, and policy decisions. PULSE surveys are administered online to selected random or targeted student samples, ensuring confidentiality and aggregate reporting. Topics vary by semester and include recurring themes like student drinking, new student transition, and community and inclusion.
Name
Adam Christensen
Director
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105 White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
Eliza Bradley
Data Analyst
She, Her, Hers
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105K White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
April Gunsallus
Administrative Support
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105M White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
Susan Marrone
Data Analyst
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105M White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
Yolanda Murphy
Associate Director
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105K White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
Anna Raup-Kounovsky
Data Analyst
Student Affairs Research and Assessment
Office
105G White Building
232 Shortlidge Rd.
University Park, PA 16802
Name
Tyler White
Data Analyst
Student Affairs Research and Assessment