It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Dr. Tania Gonzalez as Director of Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS).
Serving the UC Merced community since 2013 in a number of capacities, including most recently as Interim Associate Director of Counseling & Psychological Services, Dr. Gonzalez brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role. She has demonstrated a commitment to partnering with students, campus units, and organizations to provide critical services to our community. She continues to develop innovative approaches to address the mental health needs of our students.
Reporting to the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Dr. Gonzalez will serve as the senior administrator within the Counseling & Psychological Services department providing leadership and oversight of the clinical operations of the unit, developing comprehensive mental health student outreach programs, leading the expansion of the unit's training and practicum programs, and supporting campus-wide mental health initiatives that promote student well-being and success.
The CAPS Director Search Advisory Committee, led by Dr. Jonathan Grady (chair) shared, "Dr. Gonzalez has a vision that will increase and improve service to our growing diverse community and demonstrated a deep commitment to this work, compassion for students and all members of our community, and has a strong commitment to developing a team and to training future leaders in this field."
I would like to thank the Director CAPS Search Advisory Committee including undergraduate student representative Olabani (Prophet) Oladokun, Associate Dean of Students, Student Rights and Responsibilities Le'Trice Curl, Associate Director, Living & Learning Communities Maria Rosales, Police Sergeant Kari Gomes, and committee chair Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students Dr. Jonathan Grady.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Gonzalez.
Sincerely,
Charles Nies, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs
