The Division of Student Affairs and Campus Life has announced the appointment of Patricia Cardoso-Erase as its new associate vice chancellor and dean of students, effectively immediately. 

Cardoso-Erase has served as interim dean of students since June 2023. In her new role, she will serve as deputy chief student affairs officer, supporting the vice chancellor for student affairs and campus life in providing strategic direction and oversight across the division’s programs, services, personnel and resources. She will lead and supervise the Dean of Students Office, which includes Off Campus Student Life, Student Parent Programs and Basic Needs Initiatives, Student Conduct and Community Standards, New Student and Family Programs, Student Legal Services, and Student Life operations at the Mount Ida campus.

“Patricia’s dedication and leadership have had a profound impact on our campus community,” said Shelly Perdomo-Ahmed, vice chancellor for student affairs and campus life. “Her vision, commitment, and experience will continue to strengthen our efforts to support and uplift all students at UMass Amherst.”

A UMass Amherst alumna, Cardoso-Erase has dedicated more than a decade of her professional career to serving the university, having held multiple leadership positions within the Dean of Students Office, including assistant dean, associate dean of students for student conduct and compliance and deputy dean of students. Throughout her tenure, she has earned widespread respect for her thoughtful leadership, strategic approach to student success, and unwavering commitment to the UMass mission.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment, Perdomo-Ahmed said, as the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Life and the broader university advance ambitious goals through their respective strategic plans. She added that Cardoso-Erase’s vision and leadership are deeply aligned with For the Common Good: 2024–2034, the university’s 10-year strategic plan, as well as the SACL strategic plan, which centers student experience, equity, and wellbeing as cornerstones of institutional success.

“Her experience and insight will be instrumental in advancing these shared priorities and fulfilling UMass Amherst’s collective commitment to student success,” Perdomo-Ahmed said.