- Cornerstone Instructor
- College Success Seminar Instructor
Kristen Stratton is a Pitt alumnus, having begun her studies at the Greensburg campus before completing her undergraduate degree in Oakland. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Administration of Justice and a certificate in Women’s Studies. Kristen later obtained her master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University, along with her School Counseling (K-12) certification.
Kristen brings a well-rounded perspective to student development and career readiness with almost 20 years of experience across nonprofit, county government, and educational settings in the Pittsburgh and Washington, DC metro areas. In 2014, her career journey led her back to the University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg campus, where she serves students through the Career Services office. She is certified to administer and interpret the Strong Interest Inventory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and holds a Career Development Specialist certification from the American School Counselor Association.
Kristen specializes in internship guidance and experiential learning, providing comprehensive support throughout the internship process. She partners with students, alumni, faculty, staff, and employers to develop, identify, and connect students with meaningful pre-professional opportunities while they complete their degrees. Her broader Career Services work includes career and major exploration, résumé and cover letter development, interview preparation, event planning, networking, and graduate school planning.
Throughout her tenure at UPG, Kristen has taught first-year seminar courses including Cornerstone and College Success, served on numerous hiring committees, is the club Co-Advisor for Delight Ministries (51ÁÔÆæ chapter), and most recently joined the campus Relay For Life planning committee. She is deeply committed to student success and retention and currently serves on the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Advisory Board. Through the PennACE consortium, she contributes as a member of the Grants Review & Student of the Year Committee (when her students are not applicants).
Kristen’s commitment to education extends beyond higher education and into her local school community — a passion strengthened by being the proud mother of four. She is an active volunteer within the Hempfield Area School District, serving on the Act 339 Plan Advisory Board and holding leadership roles within the PTO as co-secretary, and chairs both their Veterans Day Committee, and Teacher Appreciation Week Committee. She also participates in and leads fundraising efforts such as the Spirit Wear Committee, along with annually volunteering as a homeroom parent across various grade levels. Her dedication reflects both her professional mission and her personal investment in creating supportive, thriving educational environments for all students.
