Current Position and Past Experience
Sara Anne Tompkins is Associate Dean for Graduate Student Services in the Graduate School at Colorado State University and an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology. She leads programs and initiatives that promote graduate student well-being, foster community, and support academic success. She also works closely with students and faculty to navigate challenges and conflicts that may arise during graduate study. Her approach emphasizes holistic mentorship, collaborative engagement, and practices grounded in kindness and respect to support students’ individual needs.
With more than 20 years of experience in higher education and consulting, Tompkins has contributed to initiatives such as the Graduate Student Mental Health and Wellness Task Force and the Graduate Center for Inclusive Mentoring. Earlier in her career, she served as a graduate programming coordinator for six years, building student-centered programming and support structures.
Education, Honors and Achievements
Tompkins earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida, a master’s in industrial/organizational psychology from the University of West Florida, and a doctorate in applied social psychology from Colorado State University. She completed a postdoctoral fellowship in health psychology at the University of Colorado and later worked with CSU Extension.
Personal Details and Community Involvement
Outside of her professional work, Tompkins enjoys time in the Colorado outdoors, connecting with community, and picnics with her family.
