Skip to main content
Eleanor Roosevelt College Eleanor Roosevelt College
  1. HOME
  2. About
  3. ERC People

Provost Office Staff

Academic Advising Staff

  • Melissa Ellew - Dean of Advising

    Melissa Ellew - Dean of Advising

    It is my privilege to serve as your Dean of Academic Advising. I have been with Eleanor Roosevelt College since 2005 and am dedicated to our students and your success. I grew up in Lompoc, a small town in central California and came to San Diego to attend UC San Diego. While I was a student at UCSD, I worked at the Academic Internship Program and discovered the career of Academic Advising. I find that helping students navigate the complexities of college life, especially at UC San Diego is how I can help break down barriers toward graduation and have been committed to this work  ever since. I went on to study at the University of San Diego and earned my Master’s Degree in Leadership Studies in Higher Education. Looking back at my times as a students, I was unaware of the support resources available to me so my advice to ERC students is to remember that we are here for you. I believe in the importance of personal connection in academic advising and invite students to share their stories with us.
  • Cindy Hsu - Assistant Dean of Advising

    Cindy Hsu - Assistant Dean of Advising

    Hello! My name is Cindy and I am excited to serve as your Assistant Dean of Academic Advising at Eleanor Roosevelt College! Originally from the Bay Area in Northern California, I attended UC San Diego and graduated with a double major in Psychology and Spanish Language Studies. During my time as an undergraduate student, I really enjoyed being involved in student organizations and being an Orientation Leader. After working in research, I realized how much I missed working with students so I made a decision to switch career paths and pursue academic advising. While working at ERC Advising the first time, I also attended graduate school full-time and earned my Master’s degree in Education from San Diego State University. I was most recently part of the John Muir College Advising team for many years and have now come full circle in returning to ERC Advising again. In my free time, I enjoy planting succulents, loom knitting, making ice cream, and spending time with my family. During your academic journey and beyond, please know that it is always ok to ask for help and explore your options. If you don’t know where or how to start, you can always start with ERC Advising. I look forward to getting to know you!
  • Ivette Bautista - Senior Academic Advisor

    Ivette Bautista - Senior Academic Advisor

    Hello! My name is Ivette Bautista (pronouns: She/ Her/ Hers) and I am here to support you with your college experience. I was born in Torrance, California, but raised in Tijuana, Mexico until I was 11. As a child, I crossed the border every day to attend school in San Diego, which provided me with a unique understanding of what it means to navigate two cultures and constantly feel out of place.

    I earned my B.A. in Public Administration and Spanish from San Diego State University in 2016 and have been working at UCSD since 2018. Prior to working at ERC, I worked at the Muir Academic Advising Office for four years where I was able to develop my own advising style. In my interactions with students, I seek to demonstrate compassion and empathy while helping them get closer to their goals. As a first-generation college graduate, I am passionate about helping students from minority groups succeed in college. In addition to my work with college students, I am also working on my Master's degree to become a licensed marriage and family therapist. 

    In my spare time, I enjoy traveling to other countries, reading, and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to connecting with you!
  • Ivonne Avila - Senior Academic Advisor

    Ivonne Avila - Senior Academic Advisor

    My name is Ivonne and I am one of your academic advisors.  I grew up with my five siblings in downtown San Jose, CA.  Like many at UC San Diego, I started as a Biology major, but changed my major to History (enjoyed History more than Biology)--graduated with a History major and Biology minor.  As an undergraduate, I was a peer advisor for the Third World Studies/Chicano Studies and Ethnic Studies.  When I was a peer advisor, I found my passion and calling in advising students.  I have worked as an undergraduate and graduate academic advisor in many different academic departments (Ethnic Studies, History, and CSE) at UC San Diego.  However, I enjoy my position at ERC as a college academic advisor, where I can assist more students in various disciplines.  As a first-generation student, I was lost at UC San Diego and made terrible academic decisions.  It was my college advisor who guided and helped me find my way towards graduation and discover my passion for advising. I decided to pursue a career in advising to assist and guide students to find their passion, achieve their goals, and to find their own pathway towards graduation. On a personal note, I enjoy: traveling with my family, spending time outside under the sun, and working out (I have been teaching indoor cycling for over 16 years). If anything I learned at UC San Diego during my undergraduate years, it is best to seek guidance and advice from the experts, and to have realistic and attainable goals. 
  • Julie Nguyen - Senior Academic Advisor

    Julie Nguyen - Senior Academic Advisor

    Hi, my name is Julie and I’m one of your academic advisors! I’m a San Diego native and I graduated from UC San Diego's Eleanor Roosevelt College with a B.A. double major in International Business and Communication. During my time as an undergraduate student, I was involved as a Freshmen, Transfer, and Senior Orientation Leader for ERC. Additionally, I worked closely with the Chancellor's Associates Scholars Program (CASP) as both a Peer Mentor for incoming freshmen students as well as a Student Office Coordinator for the program's office. In my free time, I love attending concerts with my friends and trying out new food spots. I also enjoy traveling when I have a chance, whether it be visiting a new city in the states or going abroad. I decided to pursue academic advising because I really cherished working with students and wanted to continue providing support for them as they navigate higher education. One piece of advice I have for students is to not be afraid to ask for help because we all need it sometimes.
  • Lorna Hirae-Reese - Senior Academic Advisor/International Programs Specialist

    Lorna Hirae-Reese - Senior Academic Advisor/International Programs Specialist

    As a first-generation college graduate from the State of Hawaii, I am committed to promoting access and equity in higher education. I wish for every student to graduate with a college degree as I see education as an empowering opportunity for social mobility and personal growth. I earned a B.A. in Public Relations from the University of Hawaii, an M.Ed. in College Student Services Administration from Oregon State University, and an M.S. in Marriage & Family Counseling from San Diego State University. I started my career at UC San Diego as an Assistant Resident Dean at Revelle College and held other positions later as an Assistant Dean of Students and Orientation Program Manager at Eleanor Roosevelt College. I love spending time with my family and pets and enjoy traveling, gardening, and new adventures.My best memory of college was when I was a resident advisor at UH Manoa.
  • Lydia Ramirez - Senior Academic Advisor

    Lydia Ramirez - Senior Academic Advisor

    I am looking forward to getting to know you and working with you! I  attended the University of San Diego for my undergraduate degree and I completed my Masters Degree at Point Loma Nazarene University in Education - Counseling and Guidance. As part of my graduate work, I was an intern at Barrio Logan College Institute, a program working to motivate underrepresented, first generation students to consider and qualify for post-secondary educational opportunities. I began my advising career as Graduate Advisor at UC San Diego in the department of Engineering. I work closely with our Chancellor’s Associates Scholars Program,  the Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services and other First-Generation programs to help students maintain eligibility. My goal is to help you achieve academic and professional goals. During my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors, doing barre, hiking and traveling.
  • Gloria Aquino - Academic Advisor

    Gloria Aquino - Academic Advisor

    Gloria attended and began her Academic Advising career at UC Davis. After moving to San Diego in 1991, she joined ERC Academic Advising as an Intake Counselor and later as an Academic Counselor.  In addition to meeting with students, Gloria is the coordinator of the Degree Audit and Graduation process.  She also oversees administrative duties for ERC 20 (The Freshman Honors Seminar) and ERC 92 (The Sophomores Honors Project). Gloria truly loves what she does stating “it’s all about the undergrads, I love working with them, laughing and crying with them, sharing the 'aha' moments, seeing them mature, giving them hugs at commencement, hearing them say thank you, and knowing I was briefly part of their lives.” In her time away from ERC Gloria enjoys tending to her roses, cooking, playing piano, road and plane trips, books that make her cry, crochet, and family gossip!
  • Thalia Roman - Academic Advisor

    Thalia Roman - Academic Advisor

    Hi ERC students! My name is Thalia (pronouns: she/her/hers) and I am happy to be serving as one of your Academic Counselors. I was born and raised in Bakersfield, but also have strong ties to my parent’s home country of Peru. In 2014, I moved to San Diego to attend Muir College where I earned my B.A. in Human Development with a minor in Psychology. I originally came to UCSD with an interest in pursuing a career in health care which led me to join the Chicanx/Latinx for Community Medicine (CCM) student organization. It was through my role as a board member of CCM as well as an advising intern at my home college that I narrowed in on my passion for helping students reach their academic and professional goals. As a first-generation college student, the thought of changing my career path was intimidating, but I knew that it was the best decision for me and encourage you all to reflect on your goals and be open to exploring different opportunities. Outside of work, I enjoy playing volleyball, attending concerts, watching soccer and spending time with my family. Please keep in mind that the advising team is here to provide the support and resources you need to succeed and make the most of your time here at UCSD. Do not hesitate to reach out to us!
  • Gireesha Sabaratnam - Assistant Academic Advisor

    Gireesha Sabaratnam - Assistant Academic Advisor

    My name is Gireesha and I am your Assistant Academic Advisor at Eleanor Roosevelt College. I was born in Singapore, yet I spent my childhood in Sydney, Australia. During my teen years, I moved to Los Angeles and then came to San Diego to attend UCSD. I personally believe that education should be right and not a privilege. That every individual should have access to higher education. I graduated from UC San Diego Thurgood Marshall College with a Bachelors in Urban Studies and Planning and a minor in Art History. During my 1st year at UCSD, I began working as an Intern for the Thurgood Marshall Academic Advising Office where I was able to realize my passion for Academic Advising and helping students. I also received the Academic Advising Leadership Award for outstanding service to the Marshall College Academic Advising Office. I have a passion for creating progressive and positive change in the community and I see that through helping and guiding students. I know that being the Assistant Academic Counselor is just the beginning of my journey supporting students. In my spare time, I love to hike, meditate, play guitar, travel, explore the world and spend time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you, connecting with you and helping you.
  • Sahithi Karumudi - Peer Advisor

    Sahithi Karumudi - Peer Advisor

    Major: Cognitive Science with a Specialization in Design and Interaction

    Graduating Quarter: Spring 2024

    Hometown: Santa Clara, CA

    Years as an ERC Advising Intern: Since Summer 2021

    Cocurricular Activities: Sustainable Investment Group, Indian Students Association, Undergraduate Communication Society

    Career Goals: UX/UI, Frontend Development, Consulting
  • Sahej Grewal - Peer Advisor

    Sahej Grewal - Peer Advisor

    Major: Global Health

    Graduating Quarter: Spring 2025

    Hometown: Fullerton, CA

    Years as as an ERC Peer Advisor: Since April 2022

    Activities: I enjoy reading and cooking in my free time

    Career goals: I would like to pursue a career in medicine or in the healthcare industry

Student Affairs Staff

  • Sarah Gallenberg

    Sarah Gallenberg

    Assistant Dean of Student Affairs
  • Cynthia Austin-Adibi

    Cynthia Austin-Adibi

    Executive Assistant to the Dean
  • Sonya Stepacheva

    Sonya Stepacheva

    Coordinator of Student Activities
  • William Songer

    William Songer

    Program Assistant
  • Jenny Kressel

    Jenny Kressel

    Student Care & Accountability Specialist
  • Elisa Jimenez

    Elisa Jimenez

    Pronouns: she/her/hers

    Hometown: Hacienda Heights, CA

    "Hello hello! I’m Elisa and I’m a 4th year Sociology and Political Science double major. I have been part of the Student Affairs staff since my 2nd year and am so excited to continue creating fun and engaging programming this year! On campus, I am the New Member Educator of Chi Omega, a social sorority on campus. In addition to Student Affairs and school, I work as an intern for the Mayor of San Diego. In my free time I enjoy going to the beach with friends, exploring San Diego, listening to music, and running! Come stop by the Student Affairs office and say hi!"
  • Layvin Manghane

    Layvin Manghane

    Pronouns: he/him/his

    Hometown: Hesperia, CA

    "Hello everyone! My name is Layvin and I'm a 4th year Psychology major. This is my second year here as a transfer student in ERC. To stay involved on campus, I work in the Student Affairs office here in ERC and am a volunteer with Black Voices of UCSD. In my spare time, I try to stay active by running (short distances only), and I really enjoy watching TV, listening to music/podcasts, and reading."
  • Susana Fraga

    Susana Fraga

    Pronouns: she/her/hers

    Hometown: Maracay, Venezuela

    "Hi everyone! My name is Susana, and I am a second-year transfer student and a Psychology major. I just started working for Student Affairs this fall quarter, and I am very excited to design graphics for ERC’s social media, as well as to collaborate with other staff members. On campus, I am a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, a sorority for which I act as social media manager. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and trying new restaurants with friends."
  • Citlalli Martinez Cano

    Citlalli Martinez Cano

    Pronouns: she/her/hers

    Hometown: La Puente, CA

    "Hello hello! My name is Citlalli, I'm a fourth year student double majoring in Visual Arts Media and Education Sciences! I worked as a Cross-Cultural Center intern my second year and I was an RA my third year. Currently, I'm involved with Triton Television on campus as well as being the media intern here at ERC's student affairs! When I'm free I like exploring San Diego, taking pictures, and creating films!"
  • Emma Dolinyan

    Emma Dolinyan

    Pronouns: she/her/hers

    Hometown: Armenia

    "Hello everyone! I am Emma and I am a 2nd year General Biology major and minor in Global Health focusing on prehealth. I am a part of the Armenian Student Association and It's On Us at UCSD, which is a chapter of the national movement It's On Us. I am also a part of International Women's Week Committee! My hobbies include reading, baking, drawing, swimming, and biking. If you need new book recommendations feel free to hit me up."
  • Yifan (Linda) Lou

    Yifan (Linda) Lou

    Pronouns: she/her/hers

    Hometown: Hangzhou, China

    "Hi there! My name is Yifan Lou. I'm a 2nd year Cognitive Science major specializing in Machine Learning and Neural Computation. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering at BEI, reading books, and trying out new recipes. I'm also involved in Active Minds, a mental health organization here at UCSD. I'm looking forward to meeting you all on campus and helping you start a fruitful and fun journey at ERC!"

Residence Life Staff

Making of the Modern World (MMW) Staff

International House Staff

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Staff