LYNN — North Shore Community College Wednesday introduced its first provost.
Dr. Jennifer Mezquita, vice president of student affairs at Northern Essex Community College (NECC), will join North Shore Community College (NSCC) in June to become the college’s first provost.
“I am excited Dr. Mezquita will join us at NSCC as she is a team builder who knows how to catalyze the talents and passions of the people around her to create a whole that is far greater than the sum of its parts,” said President Dr. William Heineman. “I eagerly anticipate the improvements in the NSCC student experience she will help us develop together.”
Heineman created the provost position after extensive discussion with faculty and staff. A provost will be responsible for both academic and student affairs and will provide more integrated, comprehensive and seamless services to students, the college said.
“I am energized by North Shore’s spirit of excellence and vision to serve as ‘a beacon of hope and opportunity’ for the community it serves,” said Mezquita. “I look forward to working alongside our NSCC faculty and staff to continue to cultivate a student-centered environment which focuses on access, equity, and student success.”
Mezquita is a proud first-generation graduate of Valencia (Community) College, the University of Florida, and the University of Central Florida. She developed a passion for breaking the barriers of access into higher education for underrepresented and underserved populations during her undergraduate college years.
Mezquita said she believes in access to higher education with equal outcomes for all.
“Education completely changed my life and I am committed to serving as the vehicle for others to reach their educational and career goals,” she said.
As the vice president of student affairs at NECC, Mezquita oversaw the programs, functions and services for the Enrollment Services, PK12 Partnerships, Student Development, Registrar, Student Affairs Business Systems, and Compliance departments.
She previously worked at the College of the Desert Foundation, Valencia College Foundation, Valencia College and the University of Central Florida (UCF), where she held leadership roles and served as an adjunct instructor.
