A dedicated higher education professional with a passion for equity, access, and student success. I lead with integrity, innovation, and purpose.

© 2025 Mariana Mckoy. All rights reserved.

About

Dr. Mariana McKoy is a dedicated higher education professional committed to access, equity, and student-centered success. She currently serves as the Registration Operations Manager for Graduate Online Programs at Abilene Christian University, where she leads process improvements, cross-departmental collaboration, and operational strategy. In addition, she works as an adjunct instructor at North Carolina Central University, teaching First-Year Seminar courses that encourage students to explore identity, perspective, and academic inquiry.With a strong foundation in student services and academic affairs, Dr. McKoy brings both administrative expertise and instructional experience to her work. She holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration and has spent her career supporting inclusive practices, streamlining student pathways, and building systems that serve learners from all backgrounds. Her leadership is rooted in values of empathy, integrity, and continuous growth.Before transitioning to her current roles, Dr. McKoy cultivated a strong foundation in student support, case management and K-12 education. At North Carolina Central University, she served as a Student Conduct Support Specialist and Assistant Case Manager, where she facilitated student interventions, conduct hearings, and wellness referrals to promote retention and accountability. In addition, she served as an admissions reader for the University of Virginia, demonstrating a deep commitment to serving diverse student populations and assessing academic readiness and potential for success. Dr. McKoy's approach to education is rooted in equity for all and a broader charge to support diverse student pathways into and throughout higher education.Beyond her professional roles, Dr. McKoy is passionate about mentoring, writing, and engaging in conversations that reimagine what higher education can be, especially for Black women and underrepresented communities. Whether facilitating workshops, developing vision board experiences, or reading for reflection and insight, she approaches each endeavor with purpose and heart. Her work reflects a deep belief in creating meaningful spaces where others can thrive.

Professional Affiliations

  • AACRAO – American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers

  • ACUI – Association of College Unions International

  • CRSEA – Critical Race Studies in Education Association

  • NAACP – National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

  • NASPA – National Association of Student Personnel Administrators

© 2025 Mariana Mckoy. All rights reserved.

Education

  • Doctor of Education, Higher Education Administration – University of Southern Mississippi

  • Master of Science, Higher Education Administration – North Carolina Central University

  • Bachelor of Art, Psychology – University of North Carolina Greensboro

© 2025 Mariana Mckoy. All rights reserved.

Publications

McKoy, M. (2024). Navigating Academic Success: Insights from Advisors on the Retention of First-Generation College Students. Doctoral Capstone. University of Southern Mississippi. [Zenodo]. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15346181

© 2025 Mariana Mckoy. All rights reserved.

Engagement

Level Up: Strategies to Get Promoted & Thrive as a Black and Brown Professional
Panelist | May 2025A Hidden Divide: African American Women in Higher Education Administration
Panelist | March 2025

© 2025 Mariana Mckoy. All rights reserved.