Date/Time
Date(s) - March 30, 2026
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location
Lory Student Center 322

Categories No Categories

With evocative storytelling and incisive research, Katie Rose Guest Pryal brings a new eye to the mental health crisis that higher education has faced for decades. Written from the perspective of a bipolar-autistic professor, A Light in the Tower is both a bracing account of the mental health crisis in higher education and a passionate and informed proposal for how to teach with mental health in mind.

Discussion facilitated by:

DR. SARA ANNE TOMPKINS is the Associate Dean for Student Services at the Graduate School at CSU. With a Ph.D. in Applied Social Psychology and over 20 years of experience in both higher education and applied settings, she leads efforts to support graduate student success, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging through improved support practices and student development. A first-generation college graduate and former Pell Grant recipient, Dr. Tompkins is passionate about strengths-based mentoring and advancing success for neurodivergent learners in higher education. She shares her educational journey to build authentic connections and emphasizes mentorship grounded in kindness and respect to meet students’ individual needs. She has presented nationally on these topics. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors and with her three children

JUSTIN DOVE (he/him) is the Director of the Student Disability Center (SDC) and has served in this role
for 5 years. Before CSU, Justin began his professional career at the University of Missouri in the Disability
Center as their exams coordinator, then becoming an access advisor. Justin received his undergraduate
and master’s degree from Missouri State University. His story came full circle becoming the Director of the
Disability Resource Center at Missouri State University, where he was once a student employee. Justin is a
gameshow enthusiast, loves to go on Jeep rides, cook, and bowls competitively in tournaments.