AWren Advisors

Guiding students & families through life’s academic transitions.

Students | Families | Professionals

Your Vision, Our Expertise.

At AWren Advisors, we believe that every individual and organization has a unique vision — a dream for their future, a set of goals, and a path they aspire to follow. Whether you’re navigating your academic journey, stepping into a new professional role, or seeking guidance for your family’s educational path, we are here to make that vision a reality.

With decades of experience as leaders in academic advising, college counseling, and student life, we bring a comprehensive, 360-degree understanding of what it takes to thrive in today’s world. Our personalized approach ensures that every strategy we design is tailored to meet your specific needs, empowering you to reach your goals with confidence and clarity.

At AWren Advisors, we are not just consultants, we are your partners in success. From one-on-one consultations to ongoing coaching services, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate challenges, celebrate your victories, and build a future filled with growth and achievement.

Let’s turn your vision into success, together.

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Meet the Team

  • A woman with long brown hair wearing a white sweater with red and brown stripes, smiling at the camera.

    Kristen Peterson

    FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT

  • Person with long hair in a forested area, wearing a jacket.

    Shawn Durrett

    SENIOR ADVISOR

  • Smiling person with curly hair outdoors, wearing a necklace and a dark shirt, with trees in the background.

    Lauren Cunniffe

    SENIOR ADVISOR

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Our Services for Students & Families

AWren Advisors offers unparalleled support for students and families throughout high school, college, and beyond. We provide a personalized experience that meets each student’s unique needs at any stage. Not sure which plan is right for you? Learn more below or send us an email to get started.

  • At AWren Advisors, we know that academic transitions—starting a new school, considering a school change, or preparing for college or work—can feel like a lot. Our consultants partner with students and families to navigate these moments thoughtfully, while also celebrating wins both big and small. Together, we create personalized plans that support confidence, clarity, and success so students can thrive in the environments that fit them best.

    We offer one-on-one consultations and monthly coaching packages.

  • At AWren Advisors, we leverage decades of experience to navigate the complexities of college and graduate school admission, ensuring that students and their families feel supported and informed every step of the way.

    Our College & Graduate School Admission services is tailored to meet students at their academic grade level. We offer one-on-one consultations, as well as a year long package.

  • Our International Student Consulting service fosters collaboration with international families, providing one of a kind, 360-degree support for students' academic journeys in high school or college. By working with a select number of clients, we ensure a personalized experience that meets each student's unique needs. Our year-long service includes:

    • “Stateside” support for your student while they study in the United States.

    • Weekly meetings with your student supporting their academic, social, and emotional needs.

    • College counseling and/or career mentoring adjusted to your student’s grade level.

    • Regular communication and updates with the student’s caregivers.

    • Collaboration with your student’s “team of support” including their school, athletic coaches, and health care providers (if requested).

    • Campus visits from your student’s consultant for Family Weekends, athletic and/or performing arts events, etc.

    • Break travel and end of year storage coordination.

    Our International Student Advising service is a year-long plan with an annual fee.

  • Helping your student face the complexities of young adulthood brings both joy and challenges. We know this period can be tough for parents and families too. Our consultants offer personalized support for caregivers, listening to your experiences so you can be there for your student and provide the understanding, care, boundaries, and guidance they need to succeed during this crucial time.

    We offer one-on-one consultations and monthly coaching packages.

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Our Services for Professionals

At AWren Advisors, we know that when school professionals thrive, students thrive, which is why we leverage decades of experience to guide and support educators and schools in advancing their professional learning. Learn more about the ways AWren Advisors can help you or your team achieve your goals by clicking below or sending us a note.

  • Our Peer Learning Cohorts bring independent school educators together for deeper professional development. Over nine months, participants connect with colleagues across schools, reflect on real challenges, and develop actionable solutions through facilitated conversation, expert guidance, and individual coaching.

    The program includes monthly 90-minute virtual sessions, two one-on-one coaching sessions, and a culminating in-person retreat, all in a confidential space designed for honest, meaningful dialogue.

  • Whether you are new to teaching, an aspiring leader, a mid-career educator or a veteran administrator, AWren Advisors is here to help you hone your strengths, build effective strategies for success, and raise your leadership skills to the next level.

    Our consultants have helped educators at every level navigate not only the challenges that come during the daily operations of being a school person, but also in helping the individuals that help to make these institutions run. We are here to listen to your experiences, support your challenges, and to bring new inspiration to your daily practice so you can bring your best self to work each day. AWren Advisors offers one-on-one consultations and monthly coaching packages. Contact us to find out more about our services and the best plan for you.

  • AWren Advisors specializes in creating intentional and effective professional development experiences for your team. We offer a variety of workshops in teaching & learning, social & emotional learning, and student life. Workshops are tailored to meet your school’s needs.

    You have the option to engage our consultants for a day-long workshop or collaborate with us to create a tailored professional development experience that you coordinate and deliver alongside your colleagues.
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  • “Your belief in me changed everything. Over the past three years, your genuine care and guidance helped me through every challenge. Even when I doubted myself, you never did — and that helped me find confidence I didn’t know I had. You’ve seen my growth, supported me at every turn, and earned my complete trust. I truly wouldn’t be who I am today without you.”

    -Cynthia (student)

  • “We are incredibly grateful for the care and support you’ve given William this past year. Your presence has been the defining factor in what could have been a difficult transition — instead, you helped turn it into a confident and positive new beginning. We’ve watched him grow more secure, capable, and at ease, and we know that your steady guidance made all the difference. Thank you for everything.”

    -Alex & Diane (parents)

AWren Advisors on Instagram.

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Get started with AWren Advisors, today.

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