Araceli Cruz has returned to Linfield University to help shape the student experience she once knew firsthand.
Cruz, a 2009 Linfield graduate with a degree in sociology and Spanish, now serves as associate dean of student engagement and inclusion. She returned to her alma mater as interim assistant dean in February 2026. This newly expanded permanent role focuses on student belonging, engagement and success.
“Araceli brings a deep understanding of Linfield and a genuine commitment to our students,” said Jeff Mackay ’88, vice president for student affairs/dean of students. “Having an alumnus who understands the student experience and has a strong connection to our community is incredibly valuable. She is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who will help ensure our students feel supported, connected and represented.”
In her new position, Cruz oversees the Offices of Community and Belonging, Residence Life and Housing, Student Activities, Fraternity and Sorority Life, the Chaplain’s Office and Service Leadership, as well as the First Scholars Program.
“I am honored to return to my alma mater, a place that shaped my journey and continues to transform students’ lives. Linfield’s close-knit, relationship-centered community ensures students are truly known and supported,” Cruz said. “I look forward to building on this strong foundation, expanding student engagement efforts and partnering with our community.”
Building student support
Over the past six months, Cruz has listened while identifying ways to build upon the strong student-centered work already happening at Linfield.
“My goal is to ensure that all students feel a sense of belonging, connection and support throughout their college experience,” she said.
Her priorities include strengthening support for first-generation students, streamlining access to resources and elevating programs that support student success and retention.
“I am exploring ways to expand our food pantry into a Basic Resource Hub that provides culturally responsive resources and addresses barriers to student success,” she said. “I am committed to providing educational opportunities and training that foster an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen, valued and supported.”
Cruz is learning from students, colleagues and community partners to identify opportunities to strengthen the work already taking place across campus.
“This year, we are planning listening sessions with students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to better understand their needs and perspectives,” she said. “Those conversations will help inform how we continue to evolve programs, services and support systems to meet the needs of our students.”
Strengthening connections
“We are also continuing to work collaboratively across student affairs and the broader campus community,” she said. “Student belonging does not live within a single office; it is a responsibility shared across the institution. By strengthening partnerships across departments, we can create a more connected and supportive experience for students throughout their Linfield journey.”
Cruz is also reviewing policies, practices and programs to ensure they serve Linfield’s increasingly diverse student population.
“We have also been intentional about engaging alumni through many of Linfield’s signature events and affinity programs,” she said. “Alumni provide valuable mentorship, professional insight and lived experiences that help students build connections, envision their futures and strengthen their sense of belonging at Linfield.”
One example is the Somos Linfield Scholarship, established through alumni support to expand access to a Linfield education. Cruz collaborated with alumni and campus partners to advance the scholarship, which provides additional financial support and expands opportunities for students.
Expanding community partnerships
Cruz is also strengthening partnerships with community organizations.
“One partnership that is especially meaningful is the longstanding relationship between Linfield’s financial aid office and CASA of Oregon, which supports students through its Individual Development Account (IDA) program,” she said.
Since 2020, more than 300 participants have benefited from the program, reducing financial barriers to education.
“Partnerships like this are critical because student success extends beyond the classroom,” Cruz said. “When students have financial and community support, they are better positioned to persist, engage and thrive throughout college. As a current CASA of Oregon board member, I have seen firsthand the impact these programs have on students and families.”
In addition, Cruz is growing partnerships with schools, college access programs and families.
Cruz said, “We have been intentional about engaging Spanish-speaking families. We increased our presence at community and educational conferences and built relationships that support students throughout their educational journey. These partnerships create stronger pathways to higher education. They also improve access to resources and strengthen the support that contributes to student success and belonging.”
After graduating from Linfield, Cruz earned a master’s degree in student affairs administration at Lewis & Clark College. As a first-generation Latina higher education administrator and advocate, she brings firsthand understanding of the barriers students face and a commitment to educational equity and economic justice.
“While I am still early in my tenure, I am excited about the momentum we are building,” she said. “I look forward to the opportunities ahead to advance student success, belonging and engagement.”
