Nestor M.

| Comedian | Actor | Higher Educator |

Greater Tampa Bay Area

About

A passionate and dynamic Educational Administrative Professional with over two decades of progressive leadership experience in Higher Education, I bring a unique blend of expertise in student affairs, academic administration, and strategic institutional development. With a strong foundation in student affairs complemented with strategic academic affairs collaborations, I've successfully navigated roles that involve working with a diverse range of students, across various institution types, and adult learners. My career journey is defined by my ability to build meaningful relationships, drive innovative programs, and implement comprehensive strategies that enhance student engagement and success across all levels of education. My management experience spans the development of effective recruitment strategies, enrollment services, student life programming, learning support services, academic advising, and career coaching. I am energized by opportunities to create impactful initiatives that empower students and align with institutional goals. I take a flexible and entrepreneurial approach to marketing, communications, partnership acquisition, and relationship management, always striving to find innovative solutions that address the needs of our community. I possess a strong working knowledge of student development theory, adult development theory, and the latest trends in higher education institutions. My hands-on experience includes workshop facilitation, retreat planning and presentations and teaching courses focused on pre-college preparation, student success, career planning. Key skills and areas of expertise include: ✅ Staff Supervision and Performance Management ✅ Excellent Communication Skills ✅ Project and Program Management ✅ Strategic Planning ✅ Marketing, Communications, and External Relations ✅ Fundraising and Development ✅ Outcome-Based Assessment Evaluation Strategies Educationally, I hold an Education Specialist degree in Higher Education and a Master’s in Education Leadership. I am currently pursuing an ultimate goal of advancing into a senior-level executive position in higher education that supports student success, drives institutional growth, and fosters collaboration between academic and student affairs units. Education is a transformative force, and I am committed to shaping environments where all students have the opportunity to thrive. Let’s connect, collaborate and build the future of higher education together.

Experience

  • Dean of Student Services at Hillsborough Community College
    Jan 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 6 mos

  • Assistant Dean Student Affairs & Enrollment Management at Pasco-Hernando State College
    Sep 2022 - Dec 2022 · 4 mos

  • Director of Student Leadership & Campus Life at Guttman Community College CUNY
    May 2017 - Dec 2021 · 4 yrs 8 mos

    Unit director for the newest and youngest community college in the CUNY system with an enrollment of 1,100 students. Responsibilities included leading the development and implementation of programming and leadership pathways to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion; event management and supervision of programs; and ensuring client satisfaction Key accomplishments include: • Unit director for the newest and youngest community college in the CUNY system with an enrollment of 1,100 students. Responsibilities included leading the development and implementation of programming and leadership pathways to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion; event management and supervision of programs; and ensuring client satisfaction Key accomplishments include: • Implemented new office mission/vision statements and a programming model focused on the principles of community development, student engagement, and retention; re-branded and publicized the scope and responsibilities of the department • Implemented major on-campus and virtual events (Weeks of Welcome, monthly cultural celebrations, commencement, convocation, student leadership awards) • Championed diversity, inclusion/equity, and social justice by utilizing best practices to create inclusive experiences • Ensured compliance with all Title IX regulations and policies; infused sexual assault awareness into staff training

  • Assistant Dean of Students and Director for Student Leadership & Engagement at Hofstra University
    Aug 2015 - Jul 2016 · 1 yr

    Supervised all student leadership & engagement departments for private university with an enrollment of 11,000 students. Supervised ten full time team members and student employees to create a welcoming and affirming environment. Key accomplishments include: • Provided ongoing vision, direction, and leadership by developing and conducting goals and strategic plans aimed at enhancing the co-curricular experiences and engagements for the campus community • Championed diversity, inclusion, and social justice, utilizing best practices in creating inclusive communities, intercultural engagement, and LGBTQ and ally development • Coordinated the conduct process, including statistical reports and revisions to the Code of Student Conduct/Community Standards • Collaborated with campuses offices to oversee the coordination and implementation of major campus events (e.g., Welcome Week, Fall Festival, MusicFest, monthly cultural celebrations, class programming, and theme months)

  • Dean of Culture at ROADS Charter High Schools
    Oct 2014 - Jul 2015 · 10 mos

    Created a culture of accountability and motivation for an underserved student population of 250 at-risk NYC high school students. Oversaw a team of five culture coordinators. Key accomplishments include: • Reinforced high discipline and safety standards among faculty and students. • Coordinated efforts with police liaison officer(s), and counselors in meeting with students and parents. • Resolved student behavior concerns in a fair and timely manner and maintained records of disciplinary or referral actions. • Used discipline data systems to collect and analyze discipline data. Identified implications and developed recommendations and strategies for student infraction reduction and building safety.