Joan Sarles Recognized as Outstanding Colleague

The SEAS Outstanding Colleague for October is Joan Sarles, M.Ed., Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Affairs and Professional Advisor.

Joan has continued to make a remarkable impact by advising more than 200 SEAS majors, strengthening engagement in 10+ SEAS clubs, re-establishing connections with two-year schools across Washington to improve transfer pathways, and collaborating with leadership to advance retention, student success, and first-year engagement.

As the first-year advisor for all SEAS majors, Joan plays a pivotal role in guiding students through one of the most challenging transitions in their academic journey. She supports students carrying heavy STEM course loads and making crucial early decisions about their major, offering practical guidance with positivity, warmth, and care. Her student-centered approach fosters trust, inclusion, and a true sense of belonging, an impact that extends well beyond the first year. Many students continue to seek her mentorship throughout their time at Gonzaga and beyond.

Joan’s leadership and teamwork extend to her colleagues as well. She is a trusted resource for faculty advisors, contributing to a collaborative, uplifting culture across SEAS. Her compassion for transfer students, outreach to K–12 schools and community colleges, and welcoming presence at community events all reflect her deep commitment to inclusivity, access, and Gonzaga’s Mission.

Joan’s energy, kindness, and unwavering dedication to students and colleagues alike make her a cornerstone of SEAS.