As Assistant Director for Student Support Initiatives, Miguel (he/him) provides advising, advocacy, and support to Penn graduate and professional students across a wide range of academic, personal, and financial concerns. He collaborates with campus partners to connect students with resources, develops targeted initiatives for populations with specialized support needs, and helps administer programs related to family accommodations, emergency funding, and student well-being. Miguel also co-facilitates the Family Center and Graduate First Generation Students Advisory Committees and works to enhance the graduate and professional student experience by fostering a welcoming, student-centered environment for Penn’s graduate and professional student community. As a first-generation college student himself, Miguel is passionate about creating a culture of care where every student feels supported, empowered, and connected throughout their graduate journey.
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Miguel earned his bachelor’s degree in Government from Cornell University, where he also minored in Latina/o Studies, Inequality Studies, and International Relations. He later pursued a doctorate in Political Science at Duke University, specializing in Race, Ethnicity, and Politics (REP). During his time at Duke, Miguel discovered his passion for working with students through mentoring, advising, and supporting student initiatives. That passion led him to a career in higher education, where he is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment and helping students navigate the opportunities and challenges of graduate school.
Outside of work, Miguel enjoys spending time with his wife and baby boy, exploring Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, parks, and food scene, and making the most of family adventures around the city.
