Malaphone Phommasa

Biography

I identify as a proud daughter of Lao refugees and first-generation college graduate who is passionate about the success of students who have been traditionally underserved in the higher education system. After entering UC Irvine as a Biology major, I quickly decided it wasn't for me and chose to pursue a different path. After some exploration, I found a discipline I loved and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Education. I came to UC Santa Barbara to earn my master's and doctorate in Education from the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, focusing my research on understanding the factors that support and challenge the persistence of Southeast Asian American university students. Currently, I am the Director of Academic Success Initiatives in the Office of Undergraduate Education where I oversee student support efforts through the ONDAS Student Center and Transfer Student Center. These Centers serve first-generation college students, transfer students, and other minoritized student populations, and I feel lucky to do work that I love and am passionate about. When I am not working, I am spending time with friends and family, hiking on the Santa Barbara trails, practicing yoga, baking, and trying out new recipes from different cuisines. I love meeting with students, so please don't hesitate to send an email saying Hello!