My name is Karen Seresun, and as the Assistant Vice Provost for Student Life, I strive to empower students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.  I am a student affairs leader with 25 years of experience in student life, focusing on graduate level higher education.  I oversee the Office of Student Life, which provides students with extracurricular programming that supports discovery and personal growth outside of the classroom.  Social, recreational and cultural activities sponsored by the Office of Student Life help expand students' ability to become well-balanced research and health care professionals and provide leadership opportunities that are unique to OHSU.  Through its events and programs, the Office of Student Life is focused on improving student involvement, providing opportunities for student engagement, and creating an atmosphere of belonging.  My professional goal is to help students succeed while at OHSU.