Dr. Andrew Byrne
Program Coordinator, associate professor
Dr. Andrew Byrne brings a wealth of experience in counseling, rehabilitation, and education to the School of Education. With advanced degrees from prestigious institutions and a strong background in vocational rehabilitation and therapy, he is uniquely qualified to guide students toward successful careers.
His research on technology, game design, and social support aligns perfectly with the School of Education's commitment to innovative and inclusive learning. Dr. Byrne's expertise and dedication make him an invaluable asset to our program.
Learn more about Dr. Byrne ›
Dr. Daniel Almeida (he/him/his)
Associate Professor
Dr. Daniel Almeida is a dedicated educator committed to empowering students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. His research focuses on the impact of grit, social capital, and cultural wealth on student success. With a background in higher education administration and counseling, Dr. Almeida brings a wealth of experience to the classroom. His work on culturally informed coaching programs and his research on factors affecting Black students' experiences in developmental mathematics demonstrate his commitment to equity and inclusivity in education. Dr. Almeida is a certified strengths coach and has extensive experience developing programs that leverage students' unique strengths. By joining our program, you'll have the opportunity to learn from a passionate educator who is shaping the future of higher education.
Learn more about Dr. Almeida ›
Dr. Sonia Ramrakhiani (she/her/hers)
Assistant Professor
Dr. Sonia Ramrakhiani brings a wealth of experience in counseling, having worked in various roles across diverse settings, and her journey began in India at a school for children with special needs. With advanced degrees in Psychology and Counselor Education, her research focuses on social justice and the needs of multicultural populations, particularly international students. By integrating advocacy and culturally responsive practices in her teaching, Dr. Ramrakhiani aims to prepare future professionals to effectively support and empower students in higher education settings.
Learn more about Dr. Ramrakhiani ›
Dr. Nohemy Ornelas
lecturer
Dr. Nohemy Ornelas is a prominent educator and leader, currently serving as a lecturer in the School of Education at Cal Poly, where she teaches courses on Educational Inquiry and Current Issues. In her role as Vice Chancellor of Educational and Student Support Services at the San Bernardino Community College District, she spearheads various initiatives designed to improve institutional effectiveness and workforce training. With a rich background as a first-generation college student, she has dedicated over 25 years to enhancing educational equity and access, including her impactful leadership at Allan Hancock College, where she implemented key equity programs such as the Hancock Promise. Dr. Ornelas earned her doctorate from California State University, Fresno, and her research interests focus on student access, equity, and affordability in education. Her work not only serves as a model for future educators but also significantly advances community engagement and support for students.
Learn more about Dr. Ornelas ›
Dr. Kevin Grant
lecturer
Dr. Kevin T. Grant is a distinguished member of the Cal Poly University community, serving as the Director of Assessment and Research for Student Affairs and a lecturer in the HECSA Program. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Grant expertly navigates the complexities of student affairs assessment, focusing on strategic planning and program development tailored to enhance student success. He is also the Executive Director of WITH US: The Center for Bystander Intervention, where he leads critical research on bystander behaviors in relation to pressing issues such as sexual violence and substance misuse. Dr. Grant’s commitment to advancing student engagement and academic support is evident through his active role in national organizations like NASPA and WSCUC, where he shares his expertise as a presenter and mentor. His impressive academic background, including an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration, underpins his dedication to fostering a supportive and effective educational environment for all students.
Learn more about Dr. Grant ›
Jason Mockford
lecturer
Jason Mockford, the Director of Leadership & Service at California Polytechnic State University, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the School of Education. With a solid background in Graphic Communication and an M.A. in Counseling & Guidance, Higher Education, Jason is dedicated to mentoring graduate students as they navigate their fieldwork and internship experiences. His leadership extends to directing essential student engagement units, including the Center for Leadership and the Center for Service in Action, where he cultivates the next generation of leaders. Through his involvement with professional organizations like ACPA and NODA, along with his role as a certified community mediator, Jason exemplifies the values of collaboration and innovation. These attributes not only strengthen our educational programs but also enhance the skill sets of our faculty, making our School of Education a transformative environment for aspiring educators.
Learn more about Jason Mockford ›
Dr. Joy Pederson
lecturer
Dr. Joy Pederson serves as the Dean of Students at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she supports student success and well-being, focusing on social justice. Originally from the Central Coast, she has extensive experience in higher education, having overseen the Center for Service in Action, the Multicultural Center, and the Center for Military-Connected Students. Dr. Pedersen champions student well-being and fosters an inclusive campus environment. As a founding member of the Asian Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association, the Bias Incident Response Team, and the Peace Ambassador Program, she has played a key role in promoting campus equity and safety. Dr. Pedersen holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Claremont McKenna College, a master’s in higher education counseling from Cal Poly, and a doctorate in educational leadership from UCSB. She has also taught courses at both Cal Poly and Brandman University and served on the board of United Way and the Transition-Mental Health Association. Her dedication to creating equitable access and opportunities for all students makes her an exceptional member of our team.
Learn more about Dr. Pederson ›
Dr. Jo Campbell (she/her)
lecturer
Dr. Jo Campbell is a dynamic leader in the field of higher education, currently serving as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Life at Cal Poly. With over 35 years of experience, she brings a wealth of expertise in inclusive practices and student development. Her commitment to equity and inclusion is reflected in her numerous roles on advisory boards and committees; including the ACPA-College Student Educators International’s Executive Council as chair of the LGBTQ awareness committee advocating for diverse student needs. A seasoned educator, she teaches essential courses in multicultural competence and higher education foundations. Dr. Campbell’s passion for student success and impressive academic background, including a doctorate from Bowling Green State University, make her an inspiring figure for future educational leaders.
Learn more about Dr. Campbell ›
Rachel Smith (she/her/hers)
lecturer
Rachel M. Smith , a HECSA alumna ('18) and current doctoral candidate bring over eight years of experience in diverse student affairs roles at Cal Poly, Rachel is committed to enhancing student success and retention through a lens of humanity and lived experiences, and brings invaluable real-world insights to the classroom. Her research, focused on the crucial intersection of clinical and non-clinical student support, directly informs her teaching. Furthermore, her work as a research assistant with the NSF-funded CSU Alliance for the Diversity & Strengths of STEM Faculty demonstrates her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field. Rachel's dedication to student well-being, success, and centering their lived experiences makes her an exceptional mentor and instructor.
Learn more about Rachel Smith›
Cat Placencia (she/her/hers)
lecturer
Cat Placencia, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for University Housing at Cal Poly brings a wealth of practical experience in creating equitable environments and removing barriers for students and staff. As a leader in the Chicanx Latinx Faculty Staff Association (CLFSA) and a Staff Fellow for the Office of University Diversity and Inclusion (OUDI), she is deeply committed to social justice and fostering inclusive communities. As a proud CSU graduate, community college transfer, and first-generation Latinx multiracial woman, Cat's personal and professional journey provides a unique and valuable perspective for our HECSA students
Learn more about Cat Placencia›
