Creating a Culture of Care

Even though Jeunelle Sanabria doesn’t enjoy talking about herself, there’s no denying that she loves her job and working with students; you can hear it in her voice.

^{Jeunelle Sanabria}

“I love seeing their potential and then watching them realize what it is and step into that,” says Sanabria, who was recently promoted to associate dean of students. “We’ve all been there—we’re not sure who we are or where we want to go. Students are in a developmental stage in their lives, and I can have a little impact on that, helping them reach that potential.”

In her role, Sanabria oversees Student Life, Residence Life, and Military and Veteran Affairs. She is also responsible for the Student Code of Conduct and chairs the committee supporting students of concern. For example, if someone violates a university policy, Sanabria makes sure that being held accountable is a learning experience for the student. Additionally, she leads Student Support—outreach to students who are experiencing food insecurity or housing insecurity, struggling with classes or family life, or other challenges that can affect their academic performance.

“We have a care team of staff from many areas of the university to provide resources for students,” Sanabria says, noting the Grizzly Cupboard food pantries and Tech Threads, which provides free clothing options for students in need of professional attire. “We work together to provide the best resources and care to make sure our students are successful while at New York Tech.”

Thinking back to her undergraduate years at Pace University, Sanabria remembers the challenges she faced as a first-generation student not knowing where to find the resources she needed to be successful. She ultimately was successful, earning a Master of Science for Teachers (MST) in childhood education. So, she wanted to help make the academic journey easier for others.

“I didn’t know how to do it on my own,” Sanabria says. “As a woman of color who didn’t have guidance, I wanted to give back to students who were just like me. I wanted to be that resource for someone else.”

In addition to serving the students at New York Tech, Sanabria emphasizes how much she loves working with her staff and building a strong team in the Office of Student Life. She enjoys advocating for her staff to ensure their voices are heard and providing spaces for them to grow and develop. “They do the work; I create the opportunities,” Sanabria says. “I like putting others in front and letting them shine.”

She says it’s the “culture of care” that her staff have for one another and for the students that makes Sanabria love working at New York Tech. “We do this job with love and care because it’s the human experience,” she says. “My favorite part about it doesn’t happen in the moment; it’s after the dust settles. When you get an email or phone call from a student later on, the impact you had on them really shows. Those are the moments that make this job special. This is why I do what I do.”

By Ashley Festa