Junior Peña

Junior is originally from the Dominican Republic and grew up in Massachusetts. As a first-generation graduate, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Communication from the University of Massachusetts-Boston and a Master of Science in Higher Education Student Affairs at Florida State University. Junior is passionate about supporting students from underserved communities, co-creating intentional learning spaces, and re-imagining professionalism through authenticity.

Junior has spent most of his higher education career working in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion spaces to engage, train, and support students navigating their identities. Along with his direct experience in the field, Junior has served on the NASPA Student Affairs Administrators Massachusetts State Board, the NASPA New England Regional DEI chair, and started mentorship opportunities for Black Indigenous Professionals of Color in the state. In his free time, he enjoys live music, sporting events, and karaoke.