Victoria College names Dr. Marisa Pierce as new Vice President of Student Services
Victoria College has named Dr. Marisa Pierce of Arlington, TX, as its new Vice President of Student Services, effective May 13.
In this crucial role, Pierce will serve on VC’s Administrative Council and provide strategic leadership to the Division of Student Services. Her primary focus will be to cultivate a student-centered culture while ensuring support systems align to successful completion, transfer and/or entry to a career with a family-sustaining wage for all students.
Pierce brings a wealth of experience in higher education leadership, spanning 30 years across various institutions. Most recently, she served in the inaugural role of Associate Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management at Dallas College during a successful single-accreditation transition. Prior to that, she was the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management at North Lake College within the Dallas County Community College System.
“Dr. Pierce’s extensive background in student success initiatives makes her an ideal leader for Victoria College,” said Dr. Jennifer Kent, VC President. “Her passion for empowering students to achieve success aligns perfectly with our vision of improving lives and strengthening communities by providing a supportive environment that equips students to reach their full potential.”
Pierce’s career has been dedicated to fostering student success, beginning with her role as Project Director for the El Paso Community College’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). Through her leadership, the program established strong academic partnerships with El Paso County rural school districts, successfully increasing college-going rates in each of the participating schools.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with K-12, universities and community colleges,” said Pierce. “One of the most rewarding experiences for me involved working with the rural communities around El Paso while serving as a program director. I’m excited to return to my roots of serving rural communities while leveraging all my experiences to make a positive impact in Victoria and surrounding areas.”
Pierce holds a doctorate in educational leadership and administration from The University of Texas at El Paso along with a master’s degree in reading education and a bachelor’s degree in speech communications. In addition to her leadership roles, she has actively participated in various local, state and national projects, committees and professional organizations dedicated to advancing educational access and success.
“I am incredibly honored to join Victoria College and contribute to its unwavering commitment to student success,” said Pierce. “Creating a vibrant student experience is essential, and I look forward to collaborating with students, employees and educational partners to ensure VC remains a leader in student-centered education.”
Raised in El Paso, Pierce is a fluent Spanish speaker and a proud Latina. She and her husband, Gus, have two sons.