Tia Gomez Zeller, MS

Tia M. Gomez Zeller is currently the Associate Director for International Retention at Lane Community College, International Programs. She started her education at Portland Community College where she completed her English as a Second Language program, as well as earning her Associate of Science Oregon Transfer Degree. As a graduate of Portland State University she holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Science in Education, Leadership and Policy with a focus on Post-secondary Adult Education, and two graduate certificates in Student Affairs and Teaching Adult Learners. As a big believer in student centered education, Tia is an advocate for Internationalization and Cultural Competency in Higher Education.

Tia’s varied background includes holding several leadership positions where she had the opportunity to work with diverse student populations. These opportunities provided her with the ideal foundation for her personal development. This allowed Tia to cultivate her awareness, knowledge, attitude and skills in regards cultural competency and working with people of different backgrounds. In her current position Tia developed a peer mentor program bringing together international and domestic students through meaningful service activities. This program supports the cultural adjustment and integration of new international students, as well as supporting leadership and professional development among continuing students.

Excellence in Community Programming Awardee

Tia M. Gomez Zeller received the 2020 NAFSA Hugh M. Jenkins Award for Excellence in Community Programming