New Staff Appointments at the Alliance
The Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities has named Azuri Gonzalez, Ed.D., as the organization’s new Executive Director. She will begin her new role on Oct. 1,2022. Prior to her role with HSRU, Gonzalez served as director of the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) and as interim director of the Center forFaculty Leadership and Development at The University of Texas at El Paso.
The Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU) is excited to announce the appointments of two new key staff members who will play pivotal roles in advancing our programs and initiatives:
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Dr. Melissa Nicole Ortega has joined the Alliance as Director for Programs and Initiatives. Dr. Ortega holds a PhD in Teaching, Learning & Culture with a focus on STEM education and is currently pursuing a second science-focused PhD. Her extensive leadership experience in higher education includes leading programs and initiatives that advance equity, foster inclusion, and support student success. Dr. Ortega’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and building strategic partnerships will further our mission to enhance representation and success within Hispanic-serving institutions. Her leadership and dedication make her an invaluable addition to our team.

The Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities has named Azuri Gonzalez, Ed.D., as the organization’s new Executive Director. She will begin her new role on Oct. 1,2022. Prior to her role with HSRU, Gonzalez served as director of the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) and as interim director of the Center forFaculty Leadership and Development at The University of Texas at El Paso.


Additionally, Sandra Najera joins the Alliance as Associate Director of Programs and Initiatives. Ms. Najera holds an MBA and BBA from The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). She brings extensive experience in higher education and career development, having played a key role in fostering student success and building industry-academia partnerships. Ms. Najera will work alongside Dr. Ortega to enhance the capabilities of our Hispanic-serving member institutions and support our mission to increase Hispanic representation in doctoral programs and the professoriate.
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These new appointments further strengthen the Alliance’s capacity to support its members and drive meaningful change in higher education.
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Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities