The AU Administrator Spotlight is a series that recognizes administrators who promote student success at AU.
Meet Dean Julia De Llanos, AU’s new Dean of Student Affairs. Learn more about her below.
Where are you from?
I am from Haiti, a country located on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. However, I was raised in South Florida.
What are some of your hobbies?
I must admit I have quite a few hobbies and pursuits. Traveling the world is my favorite pastime. I have travelled to several countries abroad. Thus far, my favorites are Florence, Italy, and a small coastal surfing community named San Juan Del Sur in Nicaragua. I enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, kayaking, hiking, and skydiving. However, I also enjoy indoor activities such as cycling or spinning. I enjoy reading the classics, nonfiction, and poetry. I absolutely love the arts. I enjoy dancing, perusing art galleries, painting landscapes, and attending live shows and concerts. I am currently looking forward to the U2 Joshua Tree North American tour. Finally, cooking allows time to be both reflective and creative.
Where did you go to school?
Much like the average AU student, I worked full-time while pursuing my education. While serving as a student services director in Florida’s higher education system, I completed my MBA at Liberty University. While completing my undergraduate coursework in sociology and mass communications at Florida International University, I worked in the Miami-Dade child dependency system, advocating for youth in foster care.
What brought you to AU, and what do you hope to accomplish while here?
I was particularly impressed by AU’s commitment to improving students’ clinical, professional, and social competencies. I was also impressed by AU’s commitment to preparing student leaders to use their education and training to impact their local communities and advance society as whole.
My aim is to promote student achievement by developing academic support programs and services tailored specifically to the needs of the student body, cultivating a vibrant student life, and serving as an advocate for important student issues. I am further committed to sustaining an equitable and accessible learning environment for each student wishing to pursue a degree at AU. In this effort, I am dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community that celebrates individuality and supports the free exchange of ideas.
What advice do you have for students to maximize their success at AU?
Make academic achievement a priority. As professionals, parents, caregivers, spouses, and contributing members of society, students often leave very little time to attain their personal goals. Students must allow themselves the time to make their academic aspirations a top priority in their lives. Furthermore, students are encouraged to use the services and programs available on campus. AU offers superior academic advising, tutoring, job placement assistance, peer support networks, and referral services. Use these resources to overcome obstacles. And most importantly, persevere and finish strong.
