Denise Vivar - ImSSC Manager
Denise Vivar is a public policy and higher education professional who leverages policy analysis to design student-centered programs and evaluate their impact. As Manager of the Immigrant Student Success Center at John Jay College, she leads initiatives that support undocumented and immigrant students through data-informed strategies, inclusive program design, and cross-sector collaboration.
She holds a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Policy Analysis and Evaluation from Baruch College and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Lehman College. Denise previously served as Special Assistant to New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera, where she supported legislative initiatives and community engagement.
With a strong foundation in program management and evaluation of student programs, Denise helps institutions develop accountable and effective student support systems. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to educational equity and the use of public policy to strengthen institutional practices.
