»Gabriela Castañeda, Ed.D. - Vice President of First-Generation and Promising Futures Programs

Dr. Gabriela "Gabby" Castañeda serves as Chapman University's Vice President of First-Generation and Promising Futures Programs. With a robust academic background, Dr. Castañeda earned her Ed.D. in Community College/Higher Education Educational Leadership from California State University, Long Beach, and her Doctoral Institute Certificate in the Study of Race and Equity in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a Master's degree in Higher Education Leadership and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, both from California State University, Fullerton.

Since beginning her career in Higher Education in 2007, Dr. Castañeda has garnered extensive experience in various roles as an administrator. Her career spans multiple roles across diverse institutions and higher education echelons, requiring her to employ effective leadership, policies, and strategies. She finds immense satisfaction in working with a talented array of college students and finds engaging with colleagues and communities rewarding and invigorating.

Dr. Castañeda's dedication to education and community engagement extends beyond her primary role at Chapman University. Beyond her institutional leadership, Dr. Castañeda actively engages in community initiatives, serving on boards and leading efforts. She believes in bridging the gap between education and professional development, helping students build confidence and career pathways that align with their aspirations.

She serves on several boards of directors and trustees for non-profit organizations such as the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, World Affairs Council of Orange County, and Charitable Ventures. She has previously held prestigious positions, including CSULB Educational Leadership Future Faculty and Alumni Fellow, Co-Lead for the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), Director for the Mountain Pacific Association of Colleges & Employers (MPACE), and Safe Space Facilitator and President of the Latinx Staff and Faculty at Chapman University. In these roles, she has spearheaded initiatives that have significantly improved inclusion in higher education and the community.

Dr. Castañeda's transformative contributions to Higher Education and her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive environments exemplify her dedication to empowering communities. Through her leadership, she champions student success, ensuring that education remains a catalyst for advancement and opportunity for all.