About Assessment & Strategic Planning
Welcome
Dear Colleagues:
Our office takes pride in fostering a division-wide approach to support our dedicated staff members. We are here to help you understand the profound impact our Student Affairs programs and events have on student learning and the overall student experience. Whether you are planning, implementing, analyzing, or making data-informed decisions, we provide the training and support you need to succeed. As assessment champions and collaborative partners, we lead annual operational achievements and effectiveness reports to ensure continuous improvement and accountability.
We value your contributions and are committed to working together to achieve our shared goals. Your efforts make a significant difference in the lives of our students, and we are here to support you every step of the way. You can locate us on the third floor of the Melton Student Center in Suite 3248. Please don't hesitate to reach out if there is anything we can do to assist you in your valuable work. We are here for you and look forward to supporting your endeavors!
Meet our Staff
Dr. Vanessa F. Harrison serves as the Director of Assessment and Strategic Planning for Student Affairs. In this role, she leads assessment, evaluation, research, and strategic planning initiatives that support student success and align with the mission and strategic priorities of both Student Affairs and Auburn University. Dr. Harrison and her team are dedicated to fostering evidence-informed decision-making and a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
With more than 15 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Harrison has managed federally funded applied research projects, led program evaluation efforts, and supported organizational improvement through assessment and strategic planning. She earned her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Auburn University with a specialization in program evaluation and research methods.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Dr. Harrison serves as adjunct faculty in Auburn University's College of Education, where she teaches graduate courses in educational research methods and assessment. She is passionate about helping organizations use evidence to improve programs, services, and the overall student experience.
Dr. Julia Barrett serves as the Senior Assessment Analyst in the Office of Assessment and Strategic Planning within the Division of Student affairs. In this role, she works to maintain, analyze, and visualize data from departments across Student affairs, as well as develop and implement assessment and research projects to improve key performance indicators. Julia provides support to her team in the strengthening of program objectives and improving target outcomes that align with accreditation standards and Auburn’s strategic planning.
Julia earned her Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Auburn University, where her training involved quantitative analysis, research methods, data-driven problem solving, and maximizing organizational effectiveness. In the process, she also gained experience in the field of institutional effectiveness and reporting.
Julia is driven by her goal of making a difference at Auburn by using data storytelling to inform evidence-based recommendations. She aims to apply her background to foster positive change and embody higher education best practices.
Susan Osayande is a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Assessment and Strategic Planning, within the Division of Student Affairs at Auburn University. Susan assists with the development of assessment tools and strategic planning resources, data analysis for evaluations, program reviews, surveys, and focus groups. She provides support to the Director of Assessment and Strategic Planning, helping to advance the office’s mission of fostering continuous improvement and student success.
Susan earned her Master in Development Practice Degree from Auburn University where she gained valuable experience designing instructional materials, conducting student assessments, data analysis, and student support. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science, Susan’s research focuses on evaluating policies aimed at reducing socioeconomic inequality.
Susan is committed to her growth in the Assessment and Strategic Planning office and is deeply passionate about supporting data-informed decision-making, enhancing student outcomes, and fostering positive opportunities.
Koushiki is a Senior majoring in Business Analytics with a minor in Marketing at Auburn University. She supports the Office of Assessment and Strategic Planning within the Division of Student Affairs, where she assists the Director with data analysis, reporting, and the development of visual dashboards used across campus.
In her role, she applies data modeling, visualization, and statistical analysis to real institutional datasets, using Power BI and Excel to transform raw information into actionable insights that support program evaluation and student engagement efforts. Beyond her analytical work, Koushiki is involved in the Auburn community through participation in Women in Technology, the Melton Scholars Program, and several initiatives for prospective students. Her involvement reflects her commitment to helping students discover the many resources and opportunities Auburn offers.
Koushiki is dedicated to using analytics to strengthen strategic planning and enhance the student experience. She brings curiosity, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic to every project, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement within Student Affairs.
Contact our Office
We are located in the Melton Student Center, Suite 3248.
Mailing Address:
255 Heisman Drive
Suite 3248
Auburn, AL 36849
Email: saasp@auburn.edu
Phone: 334-844-1321
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255 Heisman Drive
Harold D. Melton Student Center, Suite 3248
Auburn, AL 36849
