Slated Position: 2027-2028 N&E Committee Member Candidate
Position Statement
I am seeking the opportunity to serve in AACRAO’s Nominations & Elections role because I am deeply committed to advancing leadership, representation, and engagement within our profession. Over the course of my career in graduate admissions and records, I have seen firsthand how strong leadership pipelines and inclusive nomination processes shape not only our association, but also the future of higher education administration. I am motivated to contribute to a process that identifies, supports, and elevates leaders who reflect the diversity, expertise, and evolving needs of AACRAO.
As the Director of Graduate Admissions and Program Evaluations at San José State University, I have spent over two decades working across the full student lifecycle—from admissions through graduation—while leading initiatives that support graduate student success and institutional effectiveness. My work has consistently required thoughtful evaluation, collaboration across campus partners, and a commitment to equitable processes—skills that directly align with the responsibilities of nominations and elections. I approach leadership not just as a role, but as a responsibility to create pathways for others to grow and succeed.
My involvement with AACRAO, particularly through the AAPI Caucus, has reinforced the importance of representation and intentional leadership development. I have been actively engaged in efforts that elevate diverse voices and bring forward perspectives that have historically been underrepresented in our field. Additionally, my academic research on Filipinx leadership in higher education has deepened my understanding of how identity, experience, and access intersect in leadership pathways. These experiences inform my belief that nominations and elections should be both inclusive and strategic—ensuring that AACRAO continues to grow in ways that reflect its membership and mission.
If elected, my primary goal would be to strengthen transparency and accessibility in the nominations process. I would work to ensure that members understand how to get involved, what pathways to leadership exist, and how they can see themselves as part of AACRAO’s future. I would also prioritize identifying emerging leaders—particularly those who may not traditionally self-nominate—by creating more intentional outreach and mentorship opportunities within the nomination pipeline.
In addition, I am committed to supporting a nominations process that balances experience with new perspectives. AACRAO benefits from both seasoned leaders and those bringing fresh ideas shaped by current challenges in higher education. I would advocate for a slate of candidates that reflects this balance, ensuring continuity while also fostering innovation.
Finally, I would focus on strengthening member engagement in elections. Encouraging participation is essential to maintaining a vibrant and representative organization. By improving communication, highlighting candidate stories, and emphasizing the impact of these roles, I hope to contribute to a more engaged and informed membership.
At its core, this role is about stewardship—of leadership, of representation, and of AACRAO’s future. I bring a collaborative leadership style, a commitment to equity, and a deep respect for the work our members do every day. I would be honored to support AACRAO in continuing to build a leadership community that is inclusive, thoughtful, and forward-looking.
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