Staff

Hope Stockton, Director

Hope Stockton earned her bachelor's degree in finance and history from Huntingdon College, a master's degree in management from Troy University, and is a PhD Candidate in Adult Education at Auburn University. She initially came to Auburn in 2003 as the Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Conference on Leadership in the College of Business. Prior to her employment with Auburn, Stockton spent 13 years in healthcare management and worked for the United States Army Budget Office in Vicenza, Italy. She brings 23 years of administrative and financial management experience to the office along with extensive experience in planning, developing and administering professional and continuing education programs. As the director, she provides leadership and administrative, financial and academic management for the Office of Professional and Continuing Education.

John Freeze, Associate Director

John Freeze joined the Office of Professional and Continuing Education in the Fall of 2008. His prior service in higher education includes working as a software trainer at Texas A&M University and as the program manager for the Center for Cybercrime Investigation Training at the University of Tennessee. John holds a Bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University and a Master's degree from Texas A&M University. His responsibilities include providing leadership within the Office of Professional and Continuing Education and working to develop and market new training programs to be delivered through OPCE.

James Birdsong, Summer Youth Programs / Professional Development

James leads OPCE Summer Youth Programs, as well as select professional development courses. A career Air Force officer, James served as a command C-130 pilot, headquarters staff officer, academic instructor, and squadron operations officer. James held various positions in finance, operations, safety, acquisitions, and strategic planning. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and holds a Master's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Danell LaPread, Executive Secretary

Danell LaPread was employed for 20 years by a local manufacturer where her work was principally in the field of human resources. She joined the Office of Professional and Continuing Education in 2002, and provides support with Road Scholar, OLLI@AUBURN, and Community Course programs. Danell also works with registrations and graphic publications.

Barbara Osterrieder, Professional Development / Real Estate School Administration / Community Courses

Barb earned both her Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems and Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University. She served in K-12 Administration in Fort Myers and Orlando, Florida, prior to relocating to Auburn in 2009. Before joining the Office of Professional and Continuing Education in 2012, Barb worked locally in healthcare educational services and workforce development. She develops professional education programs and is responsible for real estate continuing education and community courses. Barb's daughter, Katie, a graduate of Auburn University is married and has a marvelous little boy, Brock, who attracted her other children to Auburn–Kristen and Keith.

Marsha Peters, Office Supervisor

Marsha Peters has been with Auburn University since 1987. She joined the Office of Professional and Continuing Education in 1991. She provides administrative support in the role of finances, payroll, human resources and general office proceedings. Marsha grew up in Auburn and continues to love living in the loveliest village on the plains with her family.

Dominique Rabine, Summer Client Coordinator / Community Courses / Professional Development

Dominique Rabine had initially enlisted in the Army after finishing her Associate's degree, but after a medical discharge, she decided to change her career path. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Cameron University, a Master's degree in Adult Education and Training from Colorado State University, and is now a PhD student in Adult Education at Auburn University. She will be working as the summer client camp coordinator and working with community courses as a program developer. Dominique also plays for the Auburn University Water Polo team, and is a proud mom to her son Gabriel.

Claire Twardy, Professional Development / CE Programs

Claire Twardy received a B.F.A. in Graphic Design from the University of Georgia. She is the coordinator for the Tax & Accounting Professional Seminars, AP Summer Institute, and coordinates other professional development programs. Her background includes event planning and marketing. She and her husband, Joe, live in Auburn and love it! They have two daughters, Sara and Anna, recent graduates of Auburn University.

Jennifer Wynn, Administrative Support

Jennifer Wynn joined the Office of Professional and Continuing Education in October 2011. Jennifer has an Associate Degree in Secretarial Sciences from Central Pennsylvania Business School. Before working at Auburn, Jennifer was an executive secretary and graphic designer for nine years. Jennifer assists the office with a wide range of general office duties.

Last Updated: November 29, 2012