Marissa Greuel Hainstock is inspired by what she sees as a drive to succeed by Blackhawk students. Her new position as Transfer Coordinator, which will be an integral part of the school’s new Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs, will enable her to support students in furthering their educational needs.

After obtaining her bachelor’s degree in Elementary/Middle School Education from St. Norbert College, she moved back to her native Stevens Point and taught high school math and science.

Moving to Madison to work at the School of Education at UW-Madison led to Marissa meeting her husband before they moved to Janesville.

Starting with Blackhawk’s Recruitment team, Marissa transitioned to an Academic Advisor position, primarily for the Nursing program. She also obtained her master’s degree in Higher Education from UW-Whitewater during this time.

She was drawn to a career in higher education and specifically in student services because of the ability to impact students’ career and life goals.

“We are able to celebrate success, support challenges, and foster a sense of community,” she said.

Marissa believes Blackhawk cares about and supports not only what a student does within the context of the classroom, but what they do outside as well.

“We offer an education that provides an opportunity for balance in a student’s life,” she said.

While affordability and reputation within the greater community may get a potential student in the door at Blackhawk, Marissa believes a student should stay at Blackhawk because of the education they receive, the supportive environment and the relationships they create.

Marissa lives in Janesville with her husband, Chris, and their three cats Gimli, Einstein and Yoda. When she’s not working, she can be found at home gardening, crocheting or hanging out with her niece and nephew. She also loves to travel, hike and attend live music around the state.