Current Position

As the Senior Manager of Institutional Engagement, Iris supports institutional engagement and data-informed strategies that strengthen capacity and impact across Excelencia’s network of colleges and universities.

Past Experiences

Iris is a proud first-generation college graduate and daughter of Mexican immigrants, with over 25 years of experience advancing student success, equity, and institutional transformation across higher education and community-based work. Most recently, she served as the Founding Director of Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Initiatives at Purdue University Northwest—Indiana’s largest HSI—leading efforts to advance Latino student success through strategic planning, HSI initiatives, and evidence-based practices. Previously, she held senior-level roles as Director of Student Life, Director of Human Resources, and DEI-focused positions during a 20-year career span at Ivy Tech Community College. Iris holds two bachelor’s degrees from Valparaiso University and a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University Northwest, along with a certification in Nonprofit Management. Beyond her institutional roles, Iris is deeply engaged in community leadership and advocacy, bringing a holistic, community-centered lens to her work in higher education.

Why are you bringing your talent to Excelencia?

As a first-generation college graduate, I understand firsthand how complex and challenging higher education systems can feel without intentional support. I had to navigate those systems on my own, in environments that were not built with students like me in mind. That experience has shaped my commitment to being part of the solution—to help redesign those systems to support student success. I was drawn to Excelencia because the organization goes beyond access and enrollment; it’s about institutional transformation. Being part of this work allows me to contribute not only my professional expertise, but also my lived experience, to help institutions create environments where students are supported by design, not by chance.

How would you describe working at Excelencia?

Working at Excelencia is both inspiring and grounding. There is a strong sense of shared purpose and clarity around why the work matters. It is humbling to be part of national-level institutional transformation and to know that our work influences the lives of so many students.

What makes the experience especially meaningful is the people—working alongside like-minded, mission-driven colleagues and learning from two exceptional Latina co-founders who model values-based leadership every day. Excelencia is a space where people are encouraged to bring their whole selves to the work, trusting that our voices, experiences, and expertise contribute to something larger.