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Doris Suarez
Chief of Staff, Dean's Office, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy
Professional Background
Doris Suarez-Fontana is a distinguished higher education administrator whose exemplary organizational acumen and management skills have significantly impacted multiple institutions within the City University of New York (CUNY) system and beyond. With an extensive career spanning over several years, Doris has demonstrated an exceptional ability to guide administrative processes, foster teamwork, and implement strategic initiatives that bolster institutional goals. Currently serving as the Chief of Staff at the Dean's Office of the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, she has established herself as a leader in board governance, office management, and educational stewardship.
Prior to her current role, Doris held critical positions such as Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chancellor at CUNY and as Governance Manager at the Freelancers Union, where her strategic insights proved invaluable. She also contributed her expertise as the Deputy National Finance Director for Nebraskans for Kerrey, showcasing her adeptness in organizational management even beyond educational settings. Additionally, her role as Vice President & Secretary of the Corporation and Chief of Staff at The New School further highlights her commitment to elevating institutional frameworks and enhancing operational effectiveness through strategic communication and administration.
Education and Achievements
Doris's outstanding educational background serves as a solid foundation for her impressive career. She graduated magna cum laude with an M.Phil in Political Science from The Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York. Additionally, she earned her B.A. in Political Science and Psychology, graduating summa cum laude from Queens College, City University of New York. This dedication to academic excellence not only illustrates her scholarly aptitude but also her deep understanding of political and social dynamics — a quality that enhances her role in higher education administration.
Throughout her career, Doris has developed a rich tapestry of experiences that underscore her proficiency in strategic planning, communication, and collaborative management. Her previous work as a Special Assistant to the Deputy Director at the Center for Labor Management Policy Studies, alongside her teaching roles as an Adjunct Lecturer and Graduate Fellow at various CUNY colleges, exemplifies her multifaceted engagement with both academic and administrative disciplines.
Moreover, Doris's role as a legislative and administrative aide to Assemblyman Denis J. Butler showcases her early commitment to public service and civic engagement, further reinforcing her capability to navigate complex regulatory environments that influence higher education policies.
Notable Skills and Specialties
Doris Suarez-Fontana possesses an array of exceptional skills that contribute to her success as a higher education administrator. Some of her key specialties include:
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Excellent Communication and Collaboration Skills: Her effective communication style fosters relationships with stakeholders at all levels, promoting transparency and cooperation within her team and institution.
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Highly Organized and Strategic: Known for her organizational prowess, Doris is meticulous in her planning processes, ensuring that strategic initiatives are executed effectively and efficiently.
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Team Builder and Leader: A hallmark of Doris's career is her ability to cultivate strong teams. She thrives in environments where she can leverage the unique strengths of her team members, fostering a spirit of ownership and pride that often leads to outstanding outcomes.
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Complex Project Development and Execution: Her capacity for detailed research and analysis allows her to develop and execute complex projects that align with institutional objectives effectively.
In addition to these core competencies, Doris is known for her discretion and professionalism, traits that are invaluable in her role, especially in managing sensitive information and guiding strategic operations within a higher education context.
Achievements
Doris Suarez-Fontana's career is marked by a series of impressive achievements that reflect her dedication to improving higher education frameworks. Her leadership roles at various institutions have resulted in enhanced governance practices, strategic planning initiatives, and successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Her strong foundation in both political science and psychology not only informs her administrative strategies but positions her as a thought leader in the industry. Doris’s commitment to excellence and her strategic insights have undoubtedly influenced the landscape of higher education administration, making her a valuable asset to every organization she has served.
