Faculty Feature: Joe Strabala-Bright

By Joe Strabala-Bright

My name is Joe Strabala-Bright, and I am Sauk’s new Dean of Student Services. I am so happy to have this opportunity to let you all know a little bit about me. I grew up in the small town of Erie, Illinois. After graduating I attended Augustana College in Rock Island where I graduated with a double major in International Business – Finance, and Political Science – International Relations.

My first job out of college was with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission as a Community Outreach Worker. From that position I moved on to Sauk where I first started working in TRIO as an advisor in 2014. During my time as an advisor I attended Northern Illinois University where I obtained my Master of Public Administration degree in 2017. In 2018 I became the college’s Director of Research and Planning, and in May of 2022 I became the new Dean of Student Services.

Outside of my professional life, I am very involved in the community. Currently I serve as the President of the Whiteside County Senior Center and Public Transportation Board as well as the Sterling Main Street Board. I’m also a member of the City of Sterling Planning Commission, the City of Sterling Riverfront Commission, the Sauk Valley Keystone Group, and the Sauk Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Welcome Home Committee. Outside of my volunteer work, I love cooking, working out, and travelling with my husband Keegan.

Now that you all know a little bit about me, I would love the opportunity to learn a little bit about you. If you happen to see me around campus, please feel free to say hello and introduce yourself! If you would ever like to talk to me about any problems you are having here at Sauk or suggestions for how we can improve, please do not hesitate to reach out. And, most importantly, if you are ever looking for a way to get involved at Sauk or in your community, please let me know. I know first-hand the importance of getting involved both on-campus and in the community, and I would love nothing more than to help you take advantage of the many opportunities that exist for students in the Sauk Valley. Thank you all for the opportunity to let me introduce myself to you. Enjoy the remainder of your term and please do not hesitate to reach out!