Salvador Mena, the senior vice chancellor for student experience at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, has been selected as a 2025–26 Fellow by the American Council on Education (ACE). This fellowship provides an intensive year-long experience at a host institution to learn from experts and leaders in higher education through the ACE network.
Mena is among 25 higher education leaders chosen nationwide for this program. Starting July 1, Francesca Maresca will serve as interim vice chancellor for student experience during Mena’s fellowship year. Maresca is currently the assistant vice chancellor for student affairs for health and wellness.
During his fellowship, Mena will work alongside senior academic leaders at another college or university. He will engage in policy analysis and administrative planning while taking on high-level strategic projects. “I am excited about the opportunity the ACE Fellowship presents to engage in deep reflection and strategic thinking about the future of higher education during this pivotal moment,” said Mena.
Since 2018, Mena has led the Division of Student Affairs at Rutgers-New Brunswick. His leadership has been crucial in developing initiatives like Discovery Advantage and ScarletWell, which support student success. He also established various offices and programs aimed at fostering student engagement and well-being.
Chancellor Francine Conway expressed pride in Mena’s selection: “The ACE Fellows Program chooses outstanding college and university leaders for a rigorous experience that will help them become the top executives of the future. Rutgers-New Brunswick is proud that Senior Vice Chancellor Mena has been chosen.”
In her interim role, Maresca brings extensive experience in health and wellness within student affairs. Since May 2021, she has overseen more than 125 staff members across various services related to medical care, counseling, recreation, and health promotion.
The ACE fellows program includes retreats, interactive learning experiences, a capstone project, and tailored placement at a host institution where fellows shadow senior leaders. The program aims to develop practical skills needed to implement transformational change.
