Transforming Student Support at San José State University

At San José State University, transformative leadership and a commitment to equity redefined student support services across the campus. From reshaping conduct processes to rebuilding essential programs and creating new spaces for academic and cultural growth, these initiatives addressed critical gaps and empowered students to thrive. Through a combination of collaboration, data-driven strategies, and visionary leadership, the university saw measurable improvements in retention, compliance, and overall student success—fostering a campus environment where every student could feel supported, valued, and connected.

Office of Student Conduct & Ethical Development

As Director of Student Conduct at San José State University, I led the transition from the Office of Judicial Affairs to Student Conduct & Ethical Development, shifting the approach from punitive to one centered on education and restoration. A campus-wide, cross-collaborative effort was initiated to implement a centralized student conduct system, encompassing student organizations, Greek life, and university housing. Key accomplishments include a 32% reduction in recidivism rates, eliminating duplicative conduct processes for students, establishing the university’s first Academic Integrity and Sexual Misconduct policies, creating the first Restorative Justice Coordinator position, and developing the university’s first Crisis Management Team to ensure a coordinated response to student behavioral concerns.

Testimonial: As a former student, Resident Advisor, and founding member of Alpha Xi Delta, I experienced firsthand the vital role that the Office of Student Conduct & Ethical Development played under Dr. Griffith's leadership. Dr. Griffith and her team genuinely cared about students, viewing them not merely as individuals who may have broken the conduct code but as people and future leaders in society. She worked diligently to help students correct maladaptive behaviors and, most importantly, focused on guiding them toward future success. -Linzey Hypes

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

As Director of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at San José State University, I led the revitalization of the program after years of underfunding and erosion. The staff was expanded from 2 to 13, and 6 student support programs were launched—including 3 mentorship programs tailored for first-year, transfer, and Black/Latino male students—along with the restoration of the Summer Bridge program. Under my leadership, the program saw significant improvements in student retention and compliance rates, with EOP students achieving a 95.2% retention rate compared to the campus average of 86.5%, and compliance rates rising from 20% in 2010 to 95% in 2014. These efforts fostered student engagement, built community, and provided personalized academic support, elevating the program's overall impact.

Testimonial: The Educational Opportunity Program at San José State University transformed my life. Their unwavering support—from student to alumni—gave me the confidence and sense of purpose I needed to thrive. EOP empowered me to find my voice, and today, that voice continues to create positive change in my community. - Frankie Garcia, Former EOP Student

Black/African American, Latinx/Chicanx, and UndocuSpartan Academic Success Centers

As Associate Vice President for Transitional Retention Services at San José State University, I led the creation, construction, and design of the African American/Black and Latinx/Chicanx Academic Success Centers. From concept to completion, I oversaw every aspect of these projects, including the hiring of the first directors. These centers were designed to provide academic support, build community, and offer cultural affirmation for historically marginalized students. Under my leadership, the centers significantly improved retention and academic success, helping students develop a sense of belonging and fostering a more inclusive campus environment.

Testimonial: Under the leadership of Dr. Griffith it was a profound experience to become the Founding Director of the African/Black Student Success of San Jose State University.  Since it’s in inception in 2018 student success rates have increased due to the resources and guidance provided by Dr. Griffith.  It was an honor to lay  the core foundation  still in existence today to increase the retention and graduation rates of African/Black students at SJSU. -Dr. Paula Livers Powell, Former Director, Black/African American Resource Center