Welcoming Dean of Student Support Services, Dr. Brandi Renée Avila
Fullerton College is excited to welcome its new Dean of Student Support Services, Dr. Brandi Renée Avila. Dean Avila will formally assume the role July 15th.
Dr. Avila is an educational leader with over 14 years of experience in the California Community College system with a deep commitment to student success, wellbeing, belonging and educational equity. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in restorative and trauma-informed practices and the belief that students thrive when institutions intentionally create environments of care, accountability, opportunity and belonging.
Currently, she serves as dean of Student Development and Wellness at Moreno Valley College, where she provides leadership for a comprehensive portfolio that includes student health and wellness services, mental health, basic needs, disability support, student life and leadership, student conduct and more. Throughout her career, she has championed holistic, student-centered approaches that remove barriers and foster thriving campus communities.
Before Moreno Valley College, Dr. Avila served Fullerton College for seven years in a variety of student services spaces, including the Cadena Cultural Center, Transfer Center and Umoja Community Program. During her tenure, she strengthened student success initiatives, expanded culturally responsive support services and advanced programs designed to increase student success outcomes for minoritized students.
An award-winning scholar, Dr. Avila’s doctoral research examines the impact of racialized stress and trauma on Black women who are community college educators that lead diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. In recognition of her scholarship and service, she was recipient of Loyola Marymount University’s Arrupe Doctoral Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. During her doctoral journey, she was also selected as a University Council for Educational Administration Jackson Scholar, a national consortium of institutions committed to advancing the preparation of education leaders in practice and policy.
Dr. Avila earned her Doctor of Education in educational leadership for social justice from Loyola Marymount University. She also holds a Master of Arts in counseling from San Diego State University, as well as a Master of Arts in sociology and a bachelor’s degree in sociology and Pan-African studies from California State University, Northridge.
Our college is pleased to welcome Dr. Avila back and looks forward to witnessing the incredible impact she will make alongside faculty, classified professionals, administrators and community partners. Together, we will continue to build on the tradition of student centeredness at Fullerton College, ensuring every student feels seen, supported and empowered to thrive.
Dr. Brandi Renée Avila
Dean, Student Support Services
