Jesse M. Bernal

Jesse M. Bernal is the current Chief of Staff to the President & Vice President for Inclusion and Equity at Grand Valley State University. Prior to this, Bernal served as the Director of Santa Clara University's Office for Diversity and Inclusion from January 2014 to February 2015. In this role, Bernal was responsible for developing the university's comprehensive approach to diversity and inclusion, including strategies for the recruitment, retention, and success of faculty, students, and staff from underrepresented groups. Bernal also advised university leadership in strategic planning for diversity and inclusion, and supported academic and administrative units in local strategic planning processes. Other responsibilities included implementing evaluation and assessments of the institutional environment and efforts related to diversity and inclusion, developing and implementing training and curriculum related to social justice education, inclusive hiring practices, creating healthy campus environments, and anti-bias education. Additionally, Bernal led the university review of policy and efforts to support a broad range of diverse communities, with increased attention to faculty, veterans, transgender community, and low-income students. Finally, Bernal also led development, fundraising, and grant-writing initiatives; supported affirmative action planning process and compliance training; and expanded and supported university partnerships with local organizations, schools, and corporations.

Jesse M. Bernal has a Ph.D. in Cultural Perspectives in Education from UC Santa Barbara. Jesse also has a B.A. in Political Science from Westmont College. In addition, they have various certifications, including ones from NELI in EEO & Affirmative Action Plans Training and Title IX Investigation Training, the University of California in Professional Development Series in Management & Supervision and Restorative Justice (student conduct) Train the Trainer, the American Grant Writers’ Association, Inc. in Grant Writing Certification, the University of Michigcan in Difficult Dialogues Training, ACPA College Student Professionals International in Social Justice Training Institute Certificate, and USF in Project Management Program.

Jesse M. Bernal reports to Philomena V. Mantella, President. Some of their coworkers include Jenny Hall-Jones - VP, Student Affairs, B. Donta Truss - Vice President for Enrollment Development & Educational Outreach, and Gregory Sanial - Vice President for Finance and Administration and Treasurer, Board of Trustees.