Teri Passow is the Director of Career & Professional Development at Marian University, where she helps students wrestle with big (and sometimes overwhelming) questions like What am I good at? What do I want to do? And is it really okay to change my mind? From first-year exploration to internships and job searches, Teri partners with students to turn curiosity, experiences, and the occasional plot twist into confident next steps. 

She holds a B.S. in Communication Studies and an M.S.Ed. in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. Teri’s professional passions include career readiness, experiential learning, leadership development, and helping students tell their stories in ways that feel genuine—and interview-ready.

Known for her positive energy, approachability, and sense of humor, Teri believes career development shouldn’t be scary, stuffy, or one-size-fits-all. She’s all about creating spaces where students feel supported, encouraged, and brave enough to try, reflect, and pivot. Outside the office, she values family, community, and the belief that the best paths are built on strong roots (with room to change direction).