Elias Quiñonez has joined the ranks of the College of Agricultural Sciences as Manager of Student Life and Diversity, a newly created position for the Fall semester.
Already part of the Ram family, Quiñonez is a CSU doctoral student with a specialization in higher education leadership, and has worked as a college counselor for the Colorado GEAR UP/Colorado Challenge at CSU since 2014. In his new role as manager of student life and diversity, Quiñonez will leverage his experience to enrich the student experience across the college.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to influence areas that I care deeply about,” said Quiñonez on the first day of the semester. “Promoting access and success for students in a college that has enriched so many students’ lives, and plays a critical role for Colorado is a win-win situation that aligns well with my personal and professional goals.”
College of Ag’s Diversity Blueprint
The appointment of Quiñonez is another step toward expanding and bolstering the college’s approach to diversity and inclusion, one of six core values within the college. As part of the strategic plan, a 10-year tactical map launched in 2018, the Diversity Blueprint outlines steps to foster a campus environment that welcomes, values and affirms the contributions of all its members.
“We’re really excited to have Elias join our student success team,” said James Pritchett, executive associate dean. “His credentials speak strongly to helping students find success during their time at CSU, and the college will benefit from having him.”
A history of success and leadership in higher-ed
Quiñonez has a robust history of success and leadership within higher education, dating back to his undergraduate work at University of Northern Colorado, where he began as an admission counselor while earning his master’s in educational leadership. Since then, he’s won multiple leadership awards at UNC and CSU, as well as a “40 Under 40 – Honored” award from BizWest for Northern Colorado in 2015.
“I’m looking forward to the collaboration of great students, staff, faculty and programs, to promote the success of students in the College of Agricultural Sciences, as well as helping the college meet its strategic goals,” noted Quiñonez.
