Julissa Gonzalez, Assistant Program Director, Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)
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How long have you been at RIT? |
I joined RIT in February 2025 and have been part of the university for about a year and a half.
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Please describe your responsibilities at RIT. |
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As the Assistant Program Director for the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), I support students’ academic journey by providing academic guidance, individualized support, and connecting them with campus resources that promote their success and well-being. I collaborate with faculty and campus partners to help students navigate academic, personal, and financial challenges while fostering a strong sense of belonging.
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In addition to coaching, I coordinate the Student Success Mentor Program, which provides peer support and helps students build meaningful connections within the RIT community. I also oversee the HEOP Textbook Loan Program and textbook voucher process to ensure students have timely access to the materials they need for academic success. Through these efforts, I strive to create an environment where students feel supported, empowered, and equipped to achieve their goals.
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What is it about your job that keeps you here? |
The students are what keep me here. Watching students grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve goals they once thought were out of reach is incredibly rewarding. Every day brings an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone's educational journey, and it is a privilege to celebrate their successes alongside them.
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As a Latina and a woman of color, I also understand the importance of representation, access, and belonging in higher education. My own experiences have shaped my passion for helping students navigate college with confidence and feel that they truly belong. That is one of the reasons I value being part of the Division of Access, Engagement, and Success. The division's commitment to removing barriers, creating opportunities, and fostering an environment where every student can thrive closely aligns with my own values and the work I strive to do each day. Knowing that I can contribute to a mission centered on expanding access, strengthening engagement, and supporting student success is what continues to inspire me.
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Please briefly share some of your professional journey. |
My professional journey has been rooted in supporting students and expanding access to higher education. As a first-generation Latina college graduate, I understand both the challenges and the transformative opportunities that higher education can provide. My own educational journey has shaped my passion for helping students overcome barriers, recognize their potential, and achieve their goals.
Throughout my career, I have been committed to creating opportunities that empower students to succeed academically, personally, and professionally. These experiences have strengthened my dedication to equity, inclusion, and student success, while also inspiring me to pursue my Ed.D at UB. Through my doctoral studies and my work with HEOP, I hope to continue contributing to educational environments where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.
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How would you describe your personal approach to ensuring “student success?”
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I believe student success begins with building authentic relationships. Every student has a unique story, and I strive to meet them where they are by listening, encouraging, and helping them identify their strengths. I want students to know that they belong, that someone believes in them, and that they have the support they need to reach their goals.
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Do you identify as a First-Gen student? If so, when you think back on your experience, how would you describe it? What do you wish you knew then-that you know now?
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Yes, I proudly identify as a first-generation college graduate. Looking back, my college experience was both rewarding and challenging. Like many first-generation students, I often struggled with impostor syndrome and questioned whether I truly belonged in higher education. There were times when I underestimated myself because of my accent and worried that my background would be viewed as a limitation rather than a strength.
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What I know now is that my identity, culture, and lived experiences are not obstacles; they are some of my greatest assets. Being a Latina, speaking with an accent, and bringing a different perspective enrich the communities I am part of. Higher education is stronger because of the diversity of experiences, voices, and cultures that students bring to campus.
If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: You belong here. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek support, or take up space. Your voice matters, your story matters, and there are people who want to see you succeed. Today, I strive to remind my students of that same message every day because I know how transformative it can be to have someone believe in you until you learn to believe in yourself.
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We are celebrating Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month. Are there individuals you look up to or consider role models for others? Could be family members as well. |
Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities while also recognizing the resilience, innovation, and leadership that have shaped our society. It is a time to honor the diverse experiences within our community and to recognize that representation matters. When people see themselves reflected in education, leadership, and professions, it reinforces that they belong and that their voices and contributions are valued. It is also an opportunity for all of us to learn from one another and appreciate the diversity that strengthens our campuses, workplaces, and communities.
I deeply admire many leaders within Rochester's Latino community who have dedicated their lives to expanding opportunities for others through education, advocacy, mentorship, and public service. Their commitment to uplifting future generations and creating pathways for success has been an inspiration to me. They have shown me the importance of using your voice, giving back to your community, and opening doors for those who come after you. Their leadership continues to motivate me to serve students with purpose and to help create spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
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Uh oh! You get to campus and you don’t have your phone. Do you soldier through it-or-head right back home to get it?
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| I'm definitely turning around to get it! As a mom to a 15-year-old, I like knowing I can always be reached—and I also need my music to get through the day!
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😂 and 🤍 — one keeps me laughing, and the other reminds me to lead with kindness and sincerity.
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If you had to eat one meal at least once a week, what would it be?
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Without a doubt—arroz con gandules y pernil! Nothing beats Latino (Puerto Rican) food.
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What have you been meaning to do, but just haven’t gotten around to it-yet?
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Take a vacation to my beautiful island of Puerto Rico! It's been on my list for a while, and I'm looking forward to spending time with family, enjoying the beaches, and recharging.
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Last show you binge-watched?
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Do you have any fears? What are you afraid of?
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I wouldn't say I'm afraid of heights, but when I turned 30, roller coasters have become a different story!
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Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about your pet.
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Yes! I have a Shih Tzu named Cinnamon, but she's a true Latina because she has more than one name! We also call her "Cosita Linda" and "Bebé," and somehow, she knows we're talking to her every time. She's almost a year and a half old, full of personality, keeps me entertained, and is always excited to greet me when I get home. She's definitely a special part of our family!
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It’s karaoke time and you’re handed the microphone. What’s your go-to song?
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Honestly... I'd probably hand the microphone right back! 😄 When God was handing out the gift of singing, I arrived a little late.
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Birth order-do you have siblings or are you an only child? Can you share a favorite childhood memory?
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On my mom's side, I'm the middle of five siblings, but I grew up as the oldest at home after my older brothers left when I was young. On my dad's side, I'm the second of four siblings. One of my favorite memories growing up was living on a tropical island and spending time outdoors, especially enjoying the beautiful beaches and warm weather of Puerto Rico.
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Friends are visiting the RIT campus for the first time. What would you make sure they see?
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I'd want them to experience a few of my favorite spots on campus—Java's for a hot chocolate with whipped cream, Ben & Jerry's for some ice cream, and the little pond where you can take a peaceful walk and enjoy the scenery.
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What would your friends or colleagues be surprised to learn about you?
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I'm honestly not sure! I'd probably have to ask them what they think is surprising about me.
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