Cynthia Dávalos
Cynthia Dávalos serves as Executive Director of Student and Equity Affairs at the University of California Office of the President. As a seasoned higher education professional, the majority of her career has been with the University of California system. She is also a first-generation graduate of UC Santa Barbara.
Cynthia has an extensive background in launching and supporting campus and systemwide initiatives in undergraduate and graduate student success, underrepresented student outreach and recruitment, and equity, diversity and inclusion. She has led several division-wide strategic planning efforts and accountability processes. In her current role, Cynthia ensures UC systemwide policies and efforts align with UC’s goals of equity and inclusion and student success.
Cynthia holds a PhD in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego, School of Leadership and Education Sciences. Her research focused on chief diversity officers, transformational leadership and institutional change. Cynthia also serves as adjunct faculty in the Department of Post-Secondary Educational Leadership at San Diego State University.