Jerlena Griffin-Desta is the brand new Chief of Staff at Sonoma State University, in addition to her new role as Associate Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Diversity.

She came to SSU from the University of California, where she spent the majority of her 30-year career. At UC, she served in the Office of the President where she was Deputy to the Vice President of Student Affairs and Associate Vice President for Student Development and Engagement.

She's excited to be working in Rohnert Park, where she believes she can make a significant difference in the lives of students there.

She talked with Northern California Public Media news director Steve Mencher.

In part two of their conversation, Jerlena Griffin-Desta and KRCB news director Steve Mencher talk about how to create a welcoming climate on the campus for diverse students, and Griffin-Desta's own journey to feel welcome in Sonoma County.

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