Marlena serves as an Assistant Director in the Office of Graduate Student Services at Lee Business School. She has been with UNLV since 2018.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I'm a proud UNLV alumna, having earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology, master's degrees in Urban Leadership and Business Administration (MBA), and, most recently this October, my doctoral dissertation in Curriculum and Instruction! I'm passionate about personal growth, lifelong learning, and creating opportunities for others.
Tell us about your experience or role at UNLV.
I started my career at UNLV in 2018 in the Graduate College and have since had the opportunity to grow through several roles across campus. Today, I serve as an Assistant Director in the Office of Graduate Student Services at Lee Business School, focusing on graduate recruitment, marketing, and helping prospective students navigate their graduate education journeys.
What do you find most rewarding about working at UNLV?
Without question, the people! I love helping students recognize opportunities they may not have considered possible and knowing that the work we do behind the scenes can make a meaningful difference in someone's educational journey.
What are your aspirations or vision for your school/unit or any other area at UNLV?
My doctoral research focuses on workforce retention and career progression among administrative faculty in higher education. I hope to use my research to advocate for greater recognition, professional development opportunities, and clearer career pathways for the individuals who work behind the scenes to support our university's success.
Tell us about a woman who’s been a mentor to you.
Dr. Jessica Soria has been an incredible mentor, colleague, and friend throughout my journey at UNLV. She's someone I can always turn to for advice, encouragement, and an honest perspective, both personally and professionally. I'm especially grateful for the time she's invested in helping me grow, challenging me to see things differently, and cheering me on through some of my biggest milestones.
Any advice for young women starting careers on campus?
Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself, ask questions, and take opportunities that push you outside your comfort zone. Build meaningful relationships, find mentors who challenge you, and remember that career growth doesn't always follow a straight line!
What life lessons have you experienced recently or within the past few years that have really changed the way you look at life?
Completing my doctorate taught me that growth isn't always linear and that some of the greatest lessons come from challenges and unexpected detours. I've also learned that not every door is meant for you, and that sometimes the best opportunities come when you stop trying to force a particular outcome.
What trait do you most like about yourself?
My determination! When I set my mind to something, I'm willing to put in the work to see it through, even when the path becomes challenging or takes longer than expected.
What inspires or empowers you?
I'm inspired by people who continue pursuing their goals despite challenges and uncertainty. I'm especially empowered by the women in my life who lead with kindness, resilience, and confidence while making space for others to succeed.
Looking ahead, what do you hope to accomplish (personally or professionally)?
Looking ahead, I'd love to find opportunities to share my research, collaborate with others, and mentor individuals navigating their own academic and professional journeys. I've always believed there's room to keep learning and reinventing yourself, so I'm excited to see what this next chapter brings.