RCC's Virginia Meléndez Selected For SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute

Press release from Rockland Community College

Rockland Community College (RCC) takes immense pride in announcing that Dr. Virginia Meléndez, RCC Director of Strategic Initiatives, has been named a Fellow in the 2024 cohort of the prestigious State University of New York (SUNY) Hispanic Leadership Institute (HLI).

HLI champions the development of Hispanic/Latinx leaders, providing a nurturing ground for their professional advancement through a variety of leadership activities, personal and group exercises, and mentorship from high-ranking Hispanic leaders. Beginning in January 2024, the six-month program will facilitate a combination of in-person and virtual engagements designed to foster leadership skills and collaborative endeavors.

SUNY’s mission statement for HLI succinctly conveys their values and purpose: to identify, foster, and support the development and retention of current and emerging Hispanic/Latinx leaders for an increasingly diverse university system and nation.

“Leadership is not just about the individual; it’s about the collective journey towards a brighter future. I am honored to have this opportunity to collaborate with our new cohort of distinguished Hispanic leaders within the SUNY system,” said Dr. Meléndez, RCC Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Together, we can make a meaningful impact and build a more inclusive tomorrow.”

Dr. Meléndez holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from Saint Peter’s University. She leads RCC’s efforts in Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) initiatives and actively collaborates with national organizations like HACU and Excelencia in Education. With over two decades of higher education administration experience and recognized leadership roles, she brings invaluable expertise to her position at RCC.

“We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Virginia Meléndez has been selected as a SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute Fellow,” said Dr. Lester Rápalo, President of RCC. “This prestigious fellowship reflects not only Dr. Meléndez’s outstanding leadership qualities but also RCC’s commitment to supporting emerging Hispanic leaders and fostering a collaborative environment for their professional growth.”

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This press release was produced by Rockland Community College. The views expressed here are the author’s own.