Saint Augustine’s University has hired Daniel C. Vélez effective May 16, as Vice President for Enrollment Management, Student Affairs, and Student Success.

Dr. Vélez comes to Saint Augustine’s University from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania where he served in several executive positions: inaugural Chief of Staff, Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and as Chief Equity, Inclusion and Compliance Officer. Prior to that, he held executive positions at Buffalo State College—as Associate Vice President for Student Success and Auxiliary Services, Interim Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Interim Vice President for Student Affairs.

Dr. Vélez earned a doctor of philosophy degree in educational leadership, policy and society from the University at Buffalo; a master’s degree in student personnel administration from Buffalo State College; and a bachelor’s of arts degree in english from the University at Buffalo.

Dr. Vélez was responsible for the development of the Student Success Unit at Buffalo State College, which resulted in the creation of student success coaches and gains in retention. He co-chaired the inaugural President’s Student Retention Committee, developed and launched signature retention initiatives such as micro-interactions and programs such as Men of Merit for underrepresented men. For his service he received the prestigious Chancellor’s Award; the highest award bestowed for professional service in the State University of New York.

Dr. Maria Lumpkin comments, “I am pleased to welcome Dr. Vélez to the university. His leadership, scholarship, and acumen in recruiting, developing, and retaining students; coupled with commitment to student success will add to the momentum that the we have gained in the enrollment, student affairs, and student success enterprise.”

“I am excited to work with such a dedicated team of professionals at Saint Augustine’s University; an institution with a rich history of success!” Vélez said.