Julie Brines

Julie Brines, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator for the College Student Personnel (CSP) program at Western Illinois University's College of Education and Human Services. With over 13 years of experience as an academic advisor and a decade in teaching roles, she specializes in graduate student mental health, international student engagement, and retention of first-generation students.

• Education: Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration (Illinois State University, 2017), M.S. in College Student Personnel (WIU, 2008), M.S. in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Administration (WIU, 2008), B.A. in Communication (WIU, 1997), Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Instructional Technology (WIU, 2018)

Research Interests focus on creating inclusive academic environments, with emphasis on mental health support for graduate students and systemic strategies for first-generation student success. Her work also explores technology integration in education through program design frameworks.

Scholarly Contributions include a 2024 publication in College Teaching analyzing generational differences in student expectations, and multiple conference presentations at NASPA and ACPA conventions addressing international graduate student employment pathways, online course design for student success, and leadership advocacy.

Awards & Leadership

• 2024 ACPA Certificate of Endorsement for international graduate student support
• 2023 Outstanding Student Organization Advisor (Phi Sigma Sigma, Office of Student Engagement)

Professional Involvement spans vice presidency in the University Professionals of Illinois (WIU chapter), chairing the COEHS Faculty Advisory Council, and service on ACPA's Commission for Global Dimensions of Student Development. She also provides advisory roles for Title IX processes and student organizations.