Meet the Professional Edge Team

Andy Kocher serves as the University of Indianapolis’ Vice President for Corporate and Community Partnerships and Chief of Staff to the President, helping strengthen relationships between UIndy, employers, and the Indianapolis community while supporting strategic priorities across the University. He works closely with campus and external partners to expand opportunities for students and alumni, advance career readiness initiatives, and deepen UIndy’s impact in the region.

A proud UIndy alumnus, Andy brings more than two decades of experience in higher education advancement, alumni engagement, and fundraising. He is passionate about building partnerships that open doors for Greyhounds and positioning UIndy as a launchpad for student success.

Kirk has spent his entire 29 year career in Financial Services working throughout North America and Europe. Kirk’s banking experience with HSBC included executive roles in mortgage banking, insurance sales and operations, and commercial banking where he ran the receivables finance operation of trade. Kirk understands the challenges and rewards of owning a business as both parents were entrepreneurs. He loves inspiring students and helping them realize their career goals.

Science by study and Arts by appreciation, Rebecca greatly enjoys using her experience in the conservation/zoological and public speaking fields to support both creative and technically minded students. She loves creating personal connections with students and supporting their dreams by helping them gain professional skills and personal confidence.

Stephanie loves helping people through the job search process. She has 23 years of business experience, including almost 20 years at Eli Lilly and Company where she provided HR support for scientists, physicians, nurses, and pharmacists as well as business professionals. She supports the community having had previous volunteer leadership opportunities with United Way and the YMCA as well as supporting local schools and non-profit agencies. Her favorite part of this job is conducting mock interviews and helping students prepare and build confidence for important interviews.

Brittany's background as an elementary and intermediate educator in the Metropolitan School District of Warren Township has provided experience working with students of all ages. A passion for education, and her love for her alma mater, brought Brittany the University as the Career Navigator. She enjoys her role in providing support to students navigating the career path that is best suited for their interests and helping them create goals for their future.

Jessica Sremanak's career has focused on transforming leaders through education, experiential learning, and strategic partnerships. As the Director of Employer Engagement at the University of Indianapolis, she cultivates relationships with industry leaders to create meaningful career opportunities. Her diverse background includes leading leadership development programs at Elanco and teaching at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, where she earned the Innovative Teaching Award. Her experience also spans market research at Procter & Gamble, recruiting at PwC, and career services at Penn State, all of which fuel her passion for talent development.

Michelle is an experienced administrative professional with a strong background in office management and education. She spent ten years as an administrative assistant before taking time to raise her family, then returned to the workforce as an instructional aide supporting students with disabilities. Michelle now brings both experiences to her role as Executive Assistant and Office Coordinator, where she supports the University’s Chief of Staff, the dedicated Directors in her office, and staff and students across the University. Her favorite part of the job is working with student staff and seeing students achieve their professional goals.