Meet Our Team

MEET OUR TEAM

Your Rock Solid future awaits!

We are thrilled that you have considered Rockford University on your college search. Our Admission team is happy to guide you through the admission process. Whether fresh out of high school, transferring from another institution, or returning to school, we strive to provide you with the necessary support to ease that transition.

Megan Frankfother
Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management
815-226-4064
MFrankfother@rockford.edu

I moved several times while growing up, but I graduated high school in Monmouth, IL. I graduated from St. Ambrose University with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Strategic Communication. Currently, I am pursuing my MBA at Rockford University – Go Regents!

My advice? Do things outside of your comfort zone – that’s where you grow.

Little known fact: I have run 3 half marathons.

Zachary Bothem
Director of First Year Admission
815-226-3382
zbothem@rockford.edu

I spent some time growing up in Syracuse, NY before spending most of my life in Roscoe, IL.  I graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science in Integrative studies with a minor in Management. I am currently pursuing my Master of Science in Sports Administration!

My Advice? Don’t be afraid to ask questions! You never know what you might learn.

Little known fact: I am a huge Buffalo Bills fan!

Katie Wolfgram, ’22 MBA
Director of Admission Operations
815-394-5096
KWolfgram@rockford.edu

My hometown is Marshfield, Wis. I earned a Bachelor of Science in International Studies and German, and minored in Outdoor Education at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

My advice? Learn who you are. College is a time when your independence is truly tested and you will learn where your boundaries lie. Take time to reflect on what you like and don’t like, not just academically, but your surroundings, social life, and personal preferences. Update your understanding of who you are regularly and let it inform the choices you make about your future, even if that means changing your path.

Little known fact: I love to go rock climbing.

Laura Paruzynski
First-Year Admissions Counselor
815-226-4149
LParuzynski@rockford.edu

I am from Rockford, IL (815 represent!). I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and am currently working towards my MBA here at Rockford University.

My advice? Get outside your comfort zone! You will be amazed by what you learn, who you meet, and where you end up.

Little known fact: In my spare time I am a party princess. (My favorite friend is Ariel!)

Amber Krause ’21
First-Year Admission Counselor
815-394-5025
akrause@rockford.edu

I am originally from Tomah, Wis. I graduated from Rockford University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development.

My advice? Be brave and spread love wherever you go.

Little known fact: I once swam in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Isaiah Rivera ’23
First-Year Admissions Counselor
815.226.3379
irivera@rockford.edu

I was born and raised in Elgin, IL and moved to Rockford after graduating from high school. From there, I attended Rock Valley College and then transferred to Rockford University where I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing!

My advice? Never talk yourself out of who you truly want to be in life, believe in yourself.

Little known fact: I love cats!

Mack Freeze ’23
First-Year Admissions Counselor
815.226.3380
mfreeze@rockford.edu

I am from Grayslake, IL. I graduated from Rockford University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

My advice? Get involved! It might be scary at first to be involved on campus, but getting involved helps you create everlasting relationships and support that help you get through all four years.

Little known fact: I am a huge fan of fish. I used to work at a tropical fish store as a freshwater specialist when I was younger and it became a passion of mine.

Karina Castañon, ’22
Transfer Admission Counselor

815-226-3378

kcastanon@rockford.edu

I was born in Park Ridge, IL, however, I have lived in Rockford since 2004. My family immigrated to the United States in the 90’s from Mexico so I am a proud Mexican-American & first-generation graduate! I attended Rockford University for my B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Human Development. I am currently pursuing my Masters in Mental Health Counseling.

My advice? I strongly advise new students not to compare themselves to others during their academic career and take everything day by day. College can be overwhelming and you might doubt yourself occasionally, but always remember you earned your right to be here just like everyone else. If you ever need help, don’t be afraid to ask anyone on campus!

Little known fact: I can count to 50 in French.

Kathleen Baylis
Adult and Graduate Admission Counselor
815.226.3378
kbaylis@rockford.edu

I am originally from Rockford, Il. I graduated from Northern Illinois University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education.

My advice? Go to class. You are your own boss in college and it’s important to hold yourself accountable. 

Little known fact: I enjoy creating and doing all kinds of art!

Taylor Byrd
Admission Assistant

815-226-4050

TByrd@rockford.edu

I am from Rockford, IL. I graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to make new connections! Being the first to say “hi” or reach out may be scary, but it can lead to amazing opportunities.

Little known fact: I volunteer at animal organizations in my spare time. I’ve volunteered at animal shelters, zoos, and service dog training centers.

Cristal Villafranca
Enrollment Specialist
815-226-4051
cvillafranca@rockford.edu

I was born and raised in Rockford, Il, and spent most of my summers in Morelia, Michoacan where my family is from. I attended Rock Valley College and I am very excited to complete my degree here at Rockford University.

My advice? A healthy work-life balance is crucial! With every big test, you must take the needed rest as well. My favorite piece of advice is to remember that everyone is on their own timeline, we’re all just living at the pace of our own clock.

Little known fact: I used to be a Starbucks barista and make the best coffee!