Staff Directory
Managing Director
Yajayra is a proud first-generation college graduate and a dedicated higher education
leader with over a decade of experience advancing student success, equity, and inclusion.
She currently serves as the Managing Director of Undergraduate Advising & Success
at San José State University, where she oversees the Student Success Centers for the
Lurie College of Education and the College of Health and Human Sciences. Her own experience
navigating college as a first-gen student fuels her commitment to creating inclusive,
supportive environments for students from all backgrounds.
Yajayra has led cross-functional teams, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and developed
student-centered initiatives that strengthen retention, engagement, and belonging,
especially for historically underserved populations. A central focus of her work has
been advocating for and supporting students with lived experience in the foster care
system. She has led initiatives and partnerships that elevate their voices, dismantle
systemic barriers, and provide holistic support that helps students navigate college
and truly thrive.
Grounded in culturally sustaining practices, trauma-informed care, and community-centered
approaches, Yajayra brings a collaborative and equity-driven lens to all she does.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. She believes
deeply in the power of education, representation, and creating spaces where people
feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow.
Office: Undergraduate Advising Hub
Email: yajayra.tovar@sjsu.edu
Academic Advisor
Maria brings a strong educational background and a deep personal connection to the
Central Valley, having grown up in the small town of Merced, California. She began
her academic journey at Merced College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree
in Psychology and a second degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences. She continued to
complete her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from UC Merced.
She recently earned her Master of Arts in School Counseling, along with a Pupil Personnel
Services (PPS) credential, from Fresno Pacific University.
As a proud first-generation college graduate, Maria is deeply committed to holistic,
student-centered advising. She strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment
where every student can thrive and reach their fullest potential.
Outside of work, Maria enjoys spending time outdoors with her furry companions, watching
suspenseful movies, and discovering new foodie spots.
Senior Student Academic Success Specialist
Marlene is a proud first-generation college graduate and daughter of Mexican immigrants.
She earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies from
UCLA and recently graduated with her master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership
at San José State University.
Her academic journey and lived experience have deeply shaped her commitment to educational
equity and supporting historically underrepresented students. She brings passion and
purpose to her work in higher education, with a focus on cultivating inclusive spaces
where all students can thrive.
Additionally, Marlene enjoys hiking local trails and caring for her houseplants.
Office: Undergraduate Advising Hub
Email: marlene.perez@sjsu.edu
Student Academic Success Specialist (in-training)
Kim is a proud first-generation college graduate and the daughter of immigrant parents.
Kim earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Psychology and a Master of
Arts in Counseling with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from Sonoma State University.
As a McNair Scholars Alumna, Kim’s research explored the vital connections between
former foster youth and their mentors.
In their role, Kim is deeply committed to supporting and empowering students from
diverse backgrounds by addressing barriers to success and equipping them with the
tools needed to thrive academically and professionally, ensuring their continued success
through and beyond college.
Outside of work, Kim enjoys trying new foods, traveling to new places, dancing, and
being an aunt.
Email: kim.t.nguyen03@sjsu.edu
Student Academic Success Specialist (in-training)
Vanessa Morales, an SJSU alumna, earned her B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development
with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education. Drawing on her own experiences, she's
dedicated to helping students confidently navigate their academic journey during their
crucial first years at SJSU. When she's not supporting students, Vanessa enjoys reading,
traveling to new places, and exploring new coffee shops.
Email: vanessa.f.ramirez@sjsu.edu
Student Success Center Coordinator
Adrian was born in Santa Cruz and raised in Bakersfield, California. He began his
academic journey at community college, earning an Associate of Arts in Business Administration.
He then went on to complete his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration at California
State University, Bakersfield.
As an Administrative Coordinator, Adrian supports the daily operations of the Student
Success Center and is committed to creating an efficient and welcoming environment
for students and staff.
In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer, watching movies, and spending time outdoors.
Office: MacQuarrie Hall 533
Email: adrian.campos@sjsu.edu
