Please join me in congratulating Jennifer Durando in her role as Advising Director, effective Monday, May 9, following a national search. Jennifer previously served as Interim Director of the Center for Advising and Academic Success (CAAS). Prior to that, She served CSI and our students as Academic Advising Manager for Continuing Students, as well as in several other functions, including as Substitute Lecturer. Jennifer is a proud CSI double alumna, with both a BA and an MA in English.
Jennifer brings a deep dedication to the academic success and sense of belonging of CSI students. She has been at the center of many wide-ranging institutional changes that have led to significant improvements in student outcomes. Select examples include leading the reimagination of onboarding and advising of transfer students with her team. Furthermore, Jennifer was a member of the CSI team that envisioned and implemented the first Academic Momentum campaign, which resulted in significantly increased retention and graduation rates for CSI students. Jennifer, together with Veronica DiMeglio, was instrumental in the creation and implementation of EDUCares, providing help and a sense of belonging for thousands of CSI students in the midst of the COVID crisis. Jennifer has presented at numerous national conferences and served as co-PI on two grants aimed at improving student support for first generation and Hispanic/LatinX students in CSI. Last week, Jennifer co-chaired the system-wide CUNY Advising Council Summit.
Please also join me in thanking the search committee for their efforts and dedication during a very busy time.
Wishing you all a strong finish to the Spring 2022 semester.
By Ralf Peetz PhD
