Meet the Undergraduate Data Science Student Support Staff

Alyssa Brown

Davene Wasser

June 1, 2026

Topics

Admissions

BSDS

Careers

Staff

Student Life

Team Profile

A group of students sits around a table with their laptops open. — Stephanie Joynes (center) advising a group of BSDS students.

The Office of Student Support at the University of Virginia's School of Data Science is here to support you through every step of your undergraduate academic journey and beyond.

From your first day on Grounds to Walking the Lawn, from your first student gig to your dream job, your success is our success. We will help you find clarity around your goals, support you through challenges, and make sure you have the skills you need to thrive.

Our work is grounded in three guiding pillars:

Careers Everywhere: Career development opportunities are thoughtfully woven into your student experience so you can graduate with a strong professional profile and the experience to back it up.
Community and Connection: We help build a strong sense of community, where every student feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
Personal and Professional Development: We can help you grow in all dimensions of your life, whether that’s building leadership skills, navigating challenges, finding direction, or exploring what success means to you.

Sarah smiling wearing a blue blazer in front of a bluish gray backdrop.

Sarah Rogis

Director of Career & Professional Development

I lead the career services team within the Office of Student Support as the director of career and professional development. In this role, I guide our dedicated team in supporting data science students across all programs as they navigate their individualized career journeys. My work involves curating the right tools and resources, designing timely and relevant programming, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and facilitating meaningful connections to people, experiences, and opportunities.

I also focus on team development, ensuring that each member of our four-person team has the resources, guidance, and advocacy they need to thrive. I help set our strategic priorities, manage our portfolio and budget, and build partnerships that advance student success. Additionally, I collaborate closely with faculty, alumni, and community stakeholders to stay informed on student career trends and the evolving hiring landscape. While most of my work is strategic, I also meet with a limited number of students through individual coaching. Our team is passionate about helping students develop the skills and confidence to be career-ready, nimble, and resilient — and we’re excited to support you along the way.

Jess wearing glasses and a grey shirt with a blurred autumn background.

Jess Beverly

Assistant Director of Student Affairs

In my role as assistant director of student affairs, I support programming and engagement for our BSDS community through events that foster community, academic support, and student leadership. I serve as the advisor to the Undergraduate Data Science Council (UDSC), helping amplify the student voice and create meaningful leadership experiences.

I also support the residential M.S. in Data Science (MSDS) students and advise the Graduate Data Science Council (GDSC), ensuring connection and collaboration across our student body. My goal is to build a supportive and empowering environment where all students can thrive.

Peyton Baldwin

Associate Director of Alumni Relations

As the associate director of alumni relations at the University of Virginia School of Data Science, I work to strengthen connections between alumni, students, faculty, and the broader School community through events, networking opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and engagement programming. I create meaningful ways for alumni to remain connected to the School of Data Science and each other long after graduation.

As a proud double Hoo, I previously spent five years working within the Athletics Department, where I developed a passion for relationship-building, community engagement, and creating memorable experiences for students and alumni. I’m excited to help grow a strong and connected alumni network that supports the continued growth and impact of the School of Data Science community. Go Hoos!

Reggie Leonard

Associate Director for Career Connections and Community Engagement

As the Associate Director of Career Connections, my role is to expand the network of opportunities available to you as a student. That means I work behind the scenes to build and nurture relationships with employers, alumni, and industry professionals.

These connections can allow you to explore what a future in data science might look like — through career treks, project-based experiences, employer spotlights, and events where you can showcase your work. While I may not meet with students individually, I ensure you have access to practical insights and meaningful connections that will support your journey from student to data science professional.

Stephanie Joynes

Assistant Director, Career and Professional Development

I’m the assistant director of career and professional development at the School of Data Science, where I support all of our student-facing career programs across BSDS, MSDS (Residential and Online), and Ph.D. cohorts. This includes one-on-one coaching, career workshops, career fairs, and staying current on industry hiring and salary trends.

I help students explore and shape their professional identities as data scientists. The career journey can feel overwhelming. No one should have to navigate it alone, and my goal is to make sure you feel empowered, curious, and confident about your next step.

Holly Stancil

Career Advisor

As a career advisor at the School of Data Science, I serve as a resource for students in all of our degree programs as they create their post-graduate career paths. My primary focus is supporting students through one-on-one coaching sessions, offering guidance on career design, internship and job search strategies, networking, resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, and experiential learning opportunities.

My goal is to help you identify what is important to you in your career and your life, and then to design a search strategy that feels exciting and doable amidst all the competing demands of student life. I can help you weave together your strengths, interests, and experiences into a clear and compelling presentation of the value you offer to employers. I want you to feel that you can show up authentically as yourself while making strategic choices to maximize your opportunities.

A smiling man in glasses and a checkered shirt stands outdoors, with blurred trees in the background.

Andrew Schwab

Student Affairs Administrative Coordinator

As the administrative coordinator for student affairs, I support the OSA team with planning and implementing student-centered events. I help keep the logistics of our office running smoothly, from scheduling meetings and securing room reservations to collaborating with colleagues throughout the School.

I also prepare and publish The Algorithm, our weekly student newsletter. Overall, I’m here to ensure students have the information, resources, and experiences they need to thrive.

Beth Wright

CAPS Psychotherapist

I’m Beth, your embedded CAPS psychotherapist here at the School of Data Science. I provide short-term individual counseling, consultation, and referrals to help support your emotional well-being during your time at UVA. My goal is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can talk through whatever’s on your mind — whether it’s stress, anxiety, relationships, or just needing someone to listen.

You’ll find me in the Wellness Room on the third floor (Room 302), where I’ve created a calm, welcoming environment just for you. Taking care of your mental health is an important part of your student journey, and I’m here to walk alongside you.