After a two year search to replace former Assistant Dean of Students Pablo Davis with emphasis on Hispanic and Latino outreach, Clarybel Peguero entered the University as the new Assistant Dean July 11.
Peguero, a fluent Spanish speaker of Dominican decent, said she is "very excited" with the position.
"It's an opportunity to build on what has been done in the past," Peguero said. "I want to come in, see what's needed and give outreach to Latino students."
She added that she holds a generalist position, and is available for outreach to all students as well.
The assistant dean position with Hispanic/Latino emphasis was created in 1999, according to Dean of Students Penny Rue.
Davis previously held the position until he moved to Virginia Foundation for the Humanities in 2003. His responsibilities were carried out in the interim by Pheobe Haupt, Coordinator for Hispanic/Latino Programs.
Rue said the position was especially important given the diversity of the University's Hispanic/Latino population.
"The Hispanic/Latino population is probably the most diverse, so it is important to create a wide range of programs and services to bring that community together."Rue said. "We've had excellent programs in that area so we're building on an already rich tradition."
Peguero added that she sees the position is part of the University's overall goal to promote diversity.
"I think it is important that the University is about diversity and inclusion -- that it is ensuring that students feel comfortable at U.Va," she said. "I think this position allows for that, especially with the programs and the organizations it advises."
Rue said Peguero's first responsibilities will be to develop rapport with students and student groups.
Peguero is a Florida native and a graduate of Syracuse and the University of South Carolina. Before coming to the University, she served as assistant director of residential life at Boston College.
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