Employee Spotlight: Maya Geraldo

06/19/2024

Since joining the college in 2017, Rhode Island native Maya Geraldo has climbed the ladder from Executive Assistant to Manager of Academic and Faculty Initiatives, effective in February of 2023.

The CCRI community has been part of her family for years; her mother worked for the college for two decades before retiring, and Maya hopes to one day leave a similar legacy. With a nomination from Interim President Rosemary Costigan, Maya was recently honored as one of Providence Business News’ 40 Under Forty for 2024, an annual awards program that recognizes young leaders based on their career success and involvement within their communities.  

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island and her Psychology of Leadership Certificate from Cornell University, Maya is currently enrolled in URI’s Master’s of Public Administration program to continue her education.

Her work and commitment to CCRI has not gone unnoticed; several colleagues nominated her in March during the college’s Extraordinary Women at CCRI initiative for Women’s History Month, recognizing her work on the financial aspects of this year’s NECHE visit, her representation of Academic Affairs division as a member of the Staff Assembly, and her work to advance the college’s equity goals through the DEI Council.

As one of PBN’s 40 Under Forty, the sky’s the limit for Geraldo as she zeroes in on her goals for 2024 and beyond.

Tell us a little about your role as the Manager of Academic and Faculty Initiatives and how your role has changed since you arrived at the college.

As the Manager of Academic and Faculty Initiatives, I lead the development, implementation and evaluation of academic and operational projects, specifically initiatives that fall under the Academic Master Plan. I also execute policy and strategic direction for the operations of Academic Affairs. One of my most passionate contributions is promoting justice, equity, diversity and inclusion through involvement with the DEI Council and the Staff Assembly DEI Committee. I use this passion to enhance the work of myself and of the division. I have been fortunate to work with supportive leadership and have taken up growth opportunities since my start at CCRI in 2017.

Depending on the field you’re in, it can take years to be recognized for your work. Some never are. For you, does this recognition validate the work you’re doing?

I am truly honored by this recognition and am extremely grateful to my colleagues for their support. I strive to make improvements to the functions, operations and culture at CCRI by analyzing and executing innovative initiatives that lead to our desired outcomes. So, yes, this recognition absolutely validates the work that I am doing. It also encourages me to continue my path in higher education and to continue to lead with grace.

What are your long-term goals at CCRI?

My mother retired from CCRI after a tenure of over 20 years. I aspire to be able to say the same one day. As the community both internal to CCRI and external evolve, I hope to also progress as a leader while working to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion remain at the forefront of all of our goals.

Whether it’s a hobby or a favorite pastime, what brings you the most joy outside of CCRI?

Outside of CCRI, my time is well spent with my husband and two children. We enjoy playing outside and finding new adventures together. I am mindful of the importance of self-care and find myself having peaceful moments of serenity with a book and a breeze.

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