Faherty Nielsen Joins Villa Maria College as the new Registrar
In this role, Dr. Nielsen manages all student records and is responsible for assisting students with course enrollment and withdrawal. Further, she will maintain student records and test scores while working with faculty and faculty advisors to plan registration schedules, coordinate class schedules and room assignments, and help to update college announcements provided to students each year.
Dr. Nielsen most recently served as an Academic Advisor at SUNY Buffalo State. In that role, she served as an academic advisor to first-year students from their initial registration through their transition to faculty advisement in the second year. Additionally, she was a primary resource for students seeking information on General Education, major, and GPA requirements, as well as major, concentration, and minor options. She has also worked at Binghampton University, SUNY Erie, Wells College, Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts, East High School, and the Burchfield Penney Art Center.
“Dr. Nielsen brings strong experience with academic advising, non-profit grant, development, and accounting experience, as well as significant supervision and operations experience to her role as Registrar,” said Dr. Ann Rivera, Villa Maria’s Provost.
Dr. Nielsen is a Doctor of Philosophy in American History from Binghamton University. She holds a Master of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration, with a certificate of advanced study in Assessment in Student Affairs and a microcredential in data visualization and storytelling from SUNY Buffalo State. She also holds a Master of Arts in American History from Binghamton University and a Bachelor of Arts from Wells College.
Brandon Ray has joined Villa Maria College as the new Director of Career Services
As the Director of Career Services, Brandon will help current students and alumni to gain employment and further develop their careers after graduation. He will work closely with both academic and industry partners to create effective career development strategies and programs. This includes networking events, professional development initiatives, and strengthening the College’s alumni association.
Brandon’s higher education experience includes Admissions, Student Affairs, and Residence Life. Most recently, he served as the Assistant Director of Residence Life at Niagara University. He also worked at Newbury College in Brookline, Massachusetts, and Dean College in Franklin, Massachusetts.
“Brandon brings a strong background in higher education leadership and student support,” said CJ Banks, Vice President of Career Advancement and Strategic Partnerships at Villa Maria. “His experience, dedication, and passion for student development make him a perfect fit for this role. I’m confident he will hit the ground running as we work together to advance our mission of supporting students from the classroom to meaningful careers.”
Brandon holds a Master of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from SUNY Buffalo State and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from Lasell University.
