Dr. Yosayra Solano is the Assistant Dean for Academic Enrichment and the Director for the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program at the School of Nursing at Rutgers University- Newark. Dr. Solano oversees the EOF department’s day-to-day operations, including supervising the counselors and professional staff, implementing retention strategies, maintaining accurate reports, budget management, and coordinating and implementing program policies and procedures. Additionally, Dr. Solano provides oversight and support to the Summer Institute for incoming scholars and the Pre-Junior Clinical program. As the Assistant Dean for Academic Enrichment, Dr. Solano provides strategic and active oversight/leadership for the following major functions: Office of Student Advisement, Office of Academic Success, and the Pathways to Nursing joint program with RU-Newark School of Arts & Sciences. In oversight of these offices, Dr. Solano leads the academic enrichment area in strategic planning, supervision of staff, outcomes assessment, and curriculum integration.
Before joining the Rutgers School of Nursing, she served as an Academic Advisor at Montclair State University for nine years and has been working in higher education for over 16 years. Dr. Solano received her B.A. in Communication Arts from Ramapo College of New Jersey and her M.A. Ed. with a concentration in Higher Education Administration from Seton Hall University. Dr. Solano received her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership/Higher Education at Rowan University. Her research interests include the academic and social success of first-generation students.
Dr. Solano has a wealth of experience in higher education, including program development, teaching, management and supervision, mentorship, and training and development. In addition to her role in the EOF department, her background includes working in areas such as Residence Life, Academic Advising, First Year Experience/Leadership Development, Peer Leadership Programs, Student Activities, and New Student Orientation. A proud alumni of the EOF program, Dr. Solano has a passion and interest in helping underrepresented populations through support and mentorship.