Melissa D. Hernandez
***** ******** *****, ********* ****, Ca. 92234
*****************@*****.***
Objective
Experienced professional with a strong background in organizational leadership, program management, and student affairs seeking a position at Robert Half. Adept at team leadership, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement, with a proven track record in educational and administrative roles.
Work History
Dean of Student Affairs
California Indian Nations College, Palm Desert, CA October 2023 – Present
• Provide strategic leadership and supervision for the student affairs department, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
• Establish and implement comprehensive organizational goals, strategic plans, policies, and procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
• Develop and coordinate campus and community programs catering to diverse student needs, promoting engagement and support.
• Collaborate with students and student groups to provide resources and advocacy, fostering a supportive educational environment.
• Oversee student conduct, implement disciplinary measures, and ensure a safe and respectful campus climate.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff, promoting professional development and high performance.
• Maintain active engagement with faculty, students, alumni, and external stakeholders, enhancing community relations.
• Monitor emerging educational issues, particularly those affecting Native American students, to drive continuous improvement.
Counselor & Substitute High School Teacher
Farmworker Institute of Education & Leadership Development August 2021 – Present
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• Led instruction in various subjects using Moodle, ensuring effective learning outcomes for high school students.
• Developed and implemented a comprehensive school counseling program in collaboration with school administration.
• Utilized data-driven approaches to create tailored counseling programs meeting diverse student needs.
• Provided leadership in educational planning, career guidance, and student support, facilitating their academic and personal growth.
• Conducted workshops on financial aid, scholarships, and college admissions, preparing students for higher education and career opportunities. CalWORKs/Foster Youth Coordinator/Counselor & Adjunct Faculty Copper Mountain College, Joshua Tree, CA
October 2017 – June 2020
• Taught college success courses, emphasizing personal and academic growth for students.
• Managed budgets for CalWORKs and Foster Youth programs, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Led team meetings, collaborating with counselors to optimize program effectiveness.
• Secured community partnerships and resources, supporting student needs and job placements.
• Provided individual and group counseling, addressing academic, psychological, and emotional challenges.
Counselor & Adjunct Faculty
College of the Desert, Palm Desert, CA
December 2015 – August 2018
• Conducted work experience courses, overseeing student evaluations and grading.
• Developed and reviewed Student Education Plans, providing personalized counseling and career guidance.
• Collaborated with high school and college students on educational planning and accommodation needs.
• Facilitated workshops on FAFSA and educational resources, improving student access to financial aid.
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Education
Master of Arts in Counseling & PPS Credential - K-12 School Counseling Chapman University
Graduated: January 2010
• Honor Roll all semesters
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
California State University, Fullerton
Graduated: June 2004
• Honor Roll all semesters
• Secretary of Indigenous Peoples Club
Skills
• Leadership and Supervision
• Program Development and Management
• Student and Staff Counseling
• Budget Management
• Community Outreach and Networking
• Data-Driven Program Evaluation
• Effective Communication
• Team Collaboration
• Administrative Efficiency