The Office of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity is thrilled to welcome Mr. Cecil Rose to the NMSU and Las Cruces communities. He brings with him an astute approach to supporting students, along with critical staff and faculty engagement. He will be an important part of the diversity programs’ team of directors, as they work collaboratively on intersectional programming that creates a sense of belonging for the students they support. He will be a tremendous asset to NMSU’s Black Programs.

Cecil brings extensive insight and vision from his prior experiences in higher education to NMSU’s Black Programs, one of five diversity programs under the Office of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity.  Mr. Rose comes to NMSU from Oglethorpe University, where he has most recently served as the Associate Director of Student Success prior to accepting this role in May 2023.

At Oglethorpe University, Rose championed a comprehensive strategic plan for academic support and student success that includes advising, tutoring, academic coaching and retention initiatives emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. He has also advised and developed impactful programs for hundreds of undergraduates working toward baccalaureate degrees using innovative and interactive models for traditional and non-traditional students.

Additionally, Rose held various roles at the University of Oklahoma. As a career development coordinator in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, he focused on student-athlete advising and community engagement. As a retention specialist in the Center of Student Advancement, he created and supported effective retention initiatives, inclusive of peer mentoring and faculty and staff interaction, to enhance the student experience.

Fun Fact: His first job was as a YMCA Youth Camp Counselor.

Cecil Rose

Director of Black Program