About

The Office of Graduate Access and Retention (GAR) is dedicated to advancing and fostering equitable educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for all students. At the heart of our efforts is the creation and support of a vibrant community that includes all faculty, staff and graduate students. Through united efforts and creative strategies, GAR works to remove systemic obstacles with the goal of fostering an inclusive environment that values and utilizes diverse viewpoints.Ìý

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GAR programs are open to all STEM graduate students and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, political philosophy, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression in accordance with state, federal and Regent law.

GAR Mission & Vision

GAR aims to build an inclusive ÌÒÉ«ÊÓƵ graduate community by optimizing recruitment, support and retention strategies that honor diverse backgrounds, ways of knowing and lived experiences of students.

We envision GAR as the cornerstone for transformative shifts and institutional transformation, radically redefining recruitment, and retention to serve as a leader for equitable, accessible education.

Meet the Team

Christina Alston (she/her/Dr.), Director

Dr. Christina Alston is an esteemed science educator with nearly two decades of experience in enhancing STEM education and championing diversity. As the Director of the Office of Graduate Access and Retention and a faculty affiliate in the School of Education at the ÌÒÉ«ÊÓƵ, Dr. Alston leads initiatives designed to foster a sense of belonging among graduate students from historically excluded and marginalized backgrounds in STEM. She holds a PhD and MS in Education, specializing in Urban Education, from the University of Houston, and a BS in Biomedical Science from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Her research has significantly contributed to understanding the Racial Battle Fatigue experienced by Black women who have left the science field, advancing equity in education. Dr. Alston's commitment and contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Pre-College Engineering Education Meritorious Service Award in 2022 from the American Society for Engineering Education.

Sanchez Rolle, Assistant Director

Dr. Rolle holds a PhD in Integrative Biosciences, a Master of Science in Public Health and dual bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Food and Nutritional Sciences from Tuskegee University. He has led impactful public health initiatives through partnerships with Yale University and Cornell University, where he contributed to interdisciplinary research and community engagement projects. Dr. Rolle serves as an advisor for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Pre-Alumni Council, helping to empower the next generation of HBCU student leaders.Ìý

Ayen Yiul, Student Assistant

Ayen Yiul is currently pursuing a degree in Neuroscience at ÌÒÉ«ÊÓƵ and plans to minor in Public Health. A proud graduate of DSST: Montview High School, Ayen supports the office through event planning, social media content creation, and student outreach. She is especially interested in the intersection of science, community health, and education.