The work of the dean's office is driven by a number of factors. Research shows that the period between ages 18 and 25 is a distinct developmental stage in life, and as such, it needs to be navigated as carefully as any other stage. We're here to support students through the changes, difficulties and concerns that arise. We also work to shape and influence students by creatively challenging them to be more reflective and intentional with their decisions. We're not onsite parents, although we're certainly responsive to how parents want us involved in their children's lives on campus. We're also not going to ignore what's happening on campus in terms of trends and realities. Essentially, we both challenge and support students to develop in ways that are balanced, healthy and productive.

Yes, there's one central and critical dynamic. Consider the analogy of a puzzle: When students first enter college, they're like a puzzle that's pieced together. At some point along the way -- it could be during any year -- the puzzle falls apart either partially or all at once. It can be a little shattering. They must piece the puzzle back together in a way that now makes the most sense for them.

The most immediate challenge for many students is in figuring out how they fit in and belong here. They also find fairly quickly that they have gone from the top of the heap to the bottom and are surrounded by classmates who have similar levels of talent and ability and who are in the same situation. They often struggle with the realization that at St. Olaf you rise by competing more with yourself than with others. In general, the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming.

Let me say first that parents of our students are wonderful. They are dedicated parents who want the best for their children. As you might expect, some have a harder time letting go than others. Frankly, technology allows for more immediate connection than was available even 10 years ago. Constant communication, whether by cell phone, e-mail or websites, can hinder students' abilities to separate and begin to define themselves independent of their parents.

I let parents know that their role now is to be good listeners and to ask questions that encourage their children to examine more closely what they're thinking and why they're thinking it. Parents do sometimes call our office with concerns, but they do it out of love -- not because they're trying to control things remotely.

I had many positive experiences as a St. Olaf student -- some that had immediate impact and others that took time and reflection to understand. One that stands out in particular involved a controversy between the students and administration. The details are not as important as the lesson I took with me that people and institutions can and should have clear values and that it is right to uphold those values in the face of societal and cultural changes.provided both are willing to periodically re-examine whether those values continue to serve self and the common good.

I'm guiding and supporting my own children, trying to explain why cars don't park in trees and why you don't actually see God when you walk into church. My husband, Nick, and I have two kids. They and my circle of friends are my challenge and support. I'm an avid reader, but find that I have less time for that as a mother of young children. I also dream of the day when we as a family can ski -- downhill, cross-country, water -- together.