Michelle AngukaChapman University staff member Gabriela Castañeda, Ed.D., has been named a fellow in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities’ (HACU) Leadership Academy.
Castañeda, assistant director at Argyros School Career Services, is one of 26 fellows selected for the second cohort of the Leadership Academy.
“I am thrilled to be included in such a prestigious program, and this opportunity is a powerful testament to Chapman’s commitment to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds like myself,” said Castañeda who is a first-generation college graduate. “It would not have been possible without the support of President Struppa and many others in the Chapman family.”
As part of the one-year program, Castañeda will participate in a series of leadership development activities designed to prepare her for leadership roles in institutions of higher learning and also within Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and Emerging HSIs.
Strategic and inclusive leadership. That’s the goal for Castañeda. And it’s one she has already started building on at Chapman where she serves as president of the LatinX Staff and Faculty Forum, which provides support and resources to Latinx students, staff and faculty.
Castañeda’s expertise in higher education and her commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion is crucial during this historic time when issues of social justice and equity are at the forefront of many conversations across university campuses and throughout the world. As a fellow, Castañeda hopes to build on that strategic and inclusive leadership and bring her experiences back to Chapman.
“I am eager to grow as a leader, said Castañeda. “I look forward to learning from other fellows and bringing back action-driven plans to contribute to Chapman’s efforts in creating an inclusive and equitable experience for all members of our Chapman family and local communities.”
