Soy Yo
As a proud immigrant and first-generation Latina from Mexico City with over 23 years of experience in higher education administration, I bring a unique blend of professionalism and enthusiasm to everything I undertake. My journey through the academic landscape is shaped by my commitment to empowering others, creating inclusive environments, while never losing sight of the joy that higher education offers the sincere practitioner.
Whether I’m leading initiatives, mentoring students, or collaborating with colleagues, I believe that true success transcends hitting goals — it’s about fostering connections, embracing adversity, and making the process enjoyable for all involved. I emphasize a student-first approach and lead with poise and indomitable strength, with an infectious smile that positively influences my leadership teams, colleagues, and students.
Outside the office, you might find me exploring new ideas in science, diving into a good non-science fiction book, or discovering the best taco in town. My demonstrated purpose is to make higher education administration not merely a career stepping stone but an exhilarating and rewarding adventure for all who embark upon it.
Professional Highlights
Experienced Chief Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, and Division I Athletics Administrator.
Innovative leader with over 20 years of experience in administration, strategic planning, program design, vision setting, and team development.
Successfully led the implementation of comprehensive equity, inclusion, and diversity programs, practices, and policies, resulting in tangible improvements and fostering an environment of inclusivity and belonging.
A proven record of developing collaborative and goal-achieving relationships with students, faculty, staff, system leaders, donors, government representatives, community leaders, and alumni.
Accomplished team leader with extensive experience in recruiting, hiring, developing, and retaining staff while creating a positive, productive, student-centered work environment.
Demonstrated expertise in fiscal and budget management at public institutions with limited resources.
Education
Ed.D Education
University of Southern California | Los Angels, CA | 2013
Dissertation: Coloring the Pipeline: Analysis of the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program as a pathway to student affairs for underrepresented students.
Master of Education
University of Vermont | Burlington, VT | 2001
Thesis: Walking Stars: Latino/a students and access to higher education.
Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
Concentration: Gerontology
Colorado State University | Fort Collins, CO | 1999