Meet Alanna Valdez
What is your name?
Alanna Valdez
What’s your job title?
Assistant Dean
Executive Programs
NYU Stern
Years/Months at NYU:
I will celebrate 11 years at NYU this November! My first day was in November 2012 when the University reopened after hurricane Sandy. I don’t think I had a phone set up or a computer, but it was certainly a day I’ll never forget!
What’s your hometown?
Boston, MA
(I somehow ended up pronouncing my Rs, but the rest of my family doesn’t).
What kind of projects do you work on?
I oversee our Executive graduate programs at NYU Stern, which includes Executive MBA degrees and global master’s programs. I work closely with faculty and academic directors on curriculum development, new program initiatives, and work closely with our graduate student population. I consider my job a mix of special projects, program development, student services, and faculty affairs.
Why NYU?
NYU is a place where questions and new ideas are welcomed. I’ve had the chance to grow and learn new things at NYU largely because others around me said “go for it” or “why not?” when trying something new. There is an entrepreneurial spirit to innovate which is something I love about working at NYU.
Any advice for new administrators?
Always try to find your “person” in whatever office you work with. It’s so important to build connections and relationships in one’s job–and across NYU more broadly–because it ultimately will help you become more productive and build your professional network (not to mention you might make some friends along the way). Also, pick up the phone and call! Sometimes things are so much easier to talk through on a phone call rather than emailing back and forth 50 times.
What does a normal day look like for you?
My day involves tackling my inbox and going to lots of meetings, either on Zoom or in-person. But what makes my job exciting is that every day is different because I work with people–and people can be…complex. There are always new opportunities and challenges I face when working with students and faculty and I never know what I’m going to come across each day. One day might involve difficult conversations with a student, and the next day I might be brainstorming how to redesign one of our programs. I enjoy taking on problems and working towards creative solutions to move things forward.
What is your fondest memory in your time here?
My fondest memory was graduating from Steinhardt with my EdD degree. I went to NYU’s commencement at Yankee Stadium and was just floored by the sea of purple and enormity of this amazing institution. It made me proud to be a part of the Violet network not only as an employee but as a graduate!
Do you have a hidden talent?
I really LOVE baking and cake decorating. I made my brother’s wedding cake last year and more recently made a creepy brain cake for Halloween. I jump at any chance to make dessert for family gatherings or parties with friends. Baking is my happy place.
What are you currently reading?
I just finished reading The Five Wounds by Kirstin Valdez Quade. It’s a novel about a family in New Mexico facing challenges like alcoholism and addiction. It’s a raw story but also warm and heartfelt. Good subway read!
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why?
Technically my dad named me after “Alanna Strange” from the Adam Strange comic book series, so I’d like to think that I’m already my own superhero!
Coffee or tea?
Coffee. Three times a day, after breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Describe yourself in only three words.
Always asking questions.
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