Ph.D. English Language and Literature, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

B.S. with Honors in Molecular Biology and English, University of Wisconsin - Madison 

As an academic advisor, professor, and a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I am dedicated to understanding students' goals and dreams, learning about their personal backgrounds, and working with them to navigate their way through different parts of their college experience in and out of the classroom. I enjoy teaching courses on media representations of Asian Americans and South Asians in the U.S., Comparative Race and Gender Studies, immigration narratives, literature, visual culture, and television and film history.

Doctor of Education in Leadership, Virginia Commonwealth University 

Master of Education in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership, College of William and Mary 

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Christopher Newport University

As a former first-generation college student, Cindy Kiefer understands both the opportunities and challenges that can come with navigating higher education without a family roadmap. Her own experience has shaped a strong commitment to supporting students as they pursue their academic, personal, and professional goals. Cindy is passionate about creating a welcoming community where first-generation students feel connected, empowered, and celebrated. She welcomes the opportunity to connect with students, hear about their first-generation experiences, and discuss ways she can support their success.

Master of Education College Student Affairs Administration, University of Georgia

Bachelor of Music Instrumental K-12, James Madison University

As a proud first-generation college graduate from JMU and UGA, I've lived through the experience of navigating college one question at a time. "What's that acronym?" "Where is this building?" "Am I supposed to know this already?" Those moments taught me the value of community, mentorship, and accessible support. It also sparked my passion for helping students, especially FGLI students, see that they belong in these spaces and can thrive in college.
 

Master's in Educational Administration - Texas A&M University

Bachelors in Education - Texas A&M University

As a first-generation college student, I know firsthand how exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming it can be to navigate college without a roadmap. Throughout my college experience, I found community through Greek life, campus employment, and faith organizations. In my free time, you can usually find me working out or baking sourdough!
 

Ph.D. in Spanish, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

M.A., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

B.A., University of Texas at Brownsville

I am a former Professor of Spanish, and I now serve as an Advising Dean in the College of Arts & Sciences. As a first-generation college graduate, from a low-income background, I am passionate about student success, and feel privileged to do my part in ensuring that every student excels in their programs and their future professional lives. As Gloria Anzaldúa reminds us, I seek to "do work that matters."

EdD in Higher Ed Administration, University of West Georgia

MBA in Business Management, James Madison University

BS in Business Management, University of Mary Washington

I am a proud first-generation college student. I believe you are never too old to continue your education, as evidenced by my recent attainment of an EdD. I am the first in my immediate family to earn a doctoral degree.

M.A. in Criminal Justice, University at Albany

B.A. in Psychology and Criminal Justice (dual major), Vermont State University

David W. Martel is Vice President for Communications and Chief Marketing Officer at the University of Virginia, where he leads the University’s integrated communications and marketing strategy and serves as a direct report to the president. His portfolio includes content and story strategy, creative development, digital engagement, brand and marketing strategy, issues management, leadership communications, collegiate licensing, and media relations. Prior to joining UVA in 2013, Martel held senior leadership roles at the University of Connecticut and the Roper Center for Public Opinion Research.