Overview

Dr. Liana C. Mentor currently serves as the Director for the Success Coaching Program in Academic Advising at Johns Hopkins University where she oversees a program that supports first generation and/or limited-income college students. With over 20 years of experience in higher education administration, Dr. Mentor developed and honed her skills working in academic affairs, student affairs, student services, undergraduate admission, scholarship, and medical/health-related pipeline programs, specifically established for underrepresented populations. Her research is centered in the academic and social well-being of diverse student populations in predominantly white academic settings while acknowledging their different learning styles, cultures, and life experiences.

Her extensive work with diverse populations at the student, faculty and administrative levels has grounded Dr. Mentor’s philosophy on how diversity shapes and fosters community engagement by promoting inclusion and respect, empowering organizations to thrive. Dr. Mentor’s professional experience and scholarship are testaments to her commitment as a leader and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within higher education. She has developed an immeasurable passion for promoting a pathway of equity and access for underrepresented communities.

Outside of academic settings, Dr. Mentor continues to deepen her passion by working in a variety of settings, communities, and organizations that have interest in promoting initiatives around diversity, creating spaces for dialogue, as well as developing opportunities that establish connections among faculty, students, administration, and professionals across their shared perspectives. Dr. Mentor continues to mentor high school, undergraduate, and graduate students from all walks of life and socioeconomic backgrounds. She is dedicated to fostering inclusive environments for learning and collaborating with organizations that support a culture of belonging at all levels.

Dr. Mentor completed a Master of Science in Education, obtained a Certificate in Higher Education Student Life and Development, and received her doctoral degree in Community Psychology from the University of Miami. She’s a member of the American Educational Research Association (AERA), Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE), National Academic Advising Association, the Society for Community Research & Action (SCRA), and a proud recipient and alumna of Florida’s Education Fund (FEF) McKnight Fellowship program.