Staff Directory
Yajayra Tovar
Managing Director
Yajayra is a proud first-generation college graduate and a dedicated higher education
leader with over a decade of experience advancing student success, equity, and inclusion.
She currently serves as the Managing Director of Undergraduate Advising & Success
at San José State University, where she oversees the Student Success Centers for the
Lurie College of Education and the College of Health and Human Sciences. Her own experience
navigating college as a first-gen student fuels her commitment to creating inclusive,
supportive environments for students from all backgrounds.
Yajayra has led cross-functional teams, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and developed
student-centered initiatives that strengthen retention, engagement, and belonging,
especially for historically underserved populations. A central focus of her work has
been advocating for and supporting students with lived experience in the foster care
system. She has led initiatives and partnerships that elevate their voices, dismantle
systemic barriers, and provide holistic support that helps students navigate college
and truly thrive.
Grounded in culturally sustaining practices, trauma-informed care, and community-centered
approaches, Yajayra brings a collaborative and equity-driven lens to all she does.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. She believes
deeply in the power of education, representation, and creating spaces where people
feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow.
Office: Undergraduate Advising Hub
Email: yajayra.tovar@sjsu.edu
Maria Sifuentes
Academic Advisor
Maria brings a strong educational background and a deep personal connection to the
Central Valley, having grown up in the small town of Merced, California. She began
her academic journey at Merced College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree
in Psychology and a second degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences. She continued to
complete her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from UC Merced.
She recently earned her Master of Arts in School Counseling, along with a Pupil Personnel
Services (PPS) credential, from Fresno Pacific University.
As a proud first-generation college graduate, Maria is deeply committed to holistic,
student-centered advising. She strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment
where every student can thrive and reach their fullest potential.
Outside of work, Maria enjoys spending time outdoors with her furry companions, watching
suspenseful movies, and discovering new foodie spots.
Jabari Womble
Academic Advisor In Training
Jabari brings a strong background in student support and academic advising. He holds
a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Sacramento State and a Master of Science
in Behavioral Health and Human Services with a concentration in Sports Psychology
from California Baptist University. Most recently, he served as an Athletic Academic
Specialist at UC Riverside, where he spent the past three years providing personalized
advising, performance strategies, and mentorship to student-athletes.
With a foundation in counseling psychology, Jabari is passionate about supporting
students' academic and personal development. His approach is rooted in connection,
guidance, and empowerment, and we’re thrilled to have him bring that energy to CHHS.
Outside of work, Jabari enjoys staying active through fitness, is an avid Los Angeles
Lakers fan, and loves traveling to new places whenever possible.
Email: jabari.womble@sjsu.edu
Senior Student Academic Success Specialist
Marlene is a proud first-generation college graduate and daughter of Mexican immigrants.
She earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies from
UCLA and recently graduated with her master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership
at San José State University.
Her academic journey and lived experience have deeply shaped her commitment to educational
equity and supporting historically underrepresented students. She brings passion and
purpose to her work in higher education, with a focus on cultivating inclusive spaces
where all students can thrive.
Additionally, Marlene enjoys hiking local trails, caring for her houseplants, and
spending time with her bunny.
Office: Undergraduate Advising Hub
Email: marlene.perez@sjsu.edu
Kanika Sood
Senior Student Academic Success Specialist
After immigrating from Punjab in 2007, Kanika has spent most of her life in the Bay
Area. After relocating to pursue her passions through higher education, she recently
returned to start her doctoral degree (EdD) at SJSU. Kanika's research interests include
exploring neurodivergence in the South Asian community and bringing disability inclusion
to the classroom through universal design. Kanika has worked in higher education for
the last four years and with PreK-12 students since 2017, aiming to continuously create
access to education and economic prosperity through a holistic lens and celebrating
diversity in every form.
When she is not in class or working, Kanika enjoys deep-diving into history, visiting
museums and art events, volunteering, cooking and trying new foods with friends, and
spending a good chunk of time outdoors.
Adrian Campos
Student Success Center Coordinator
Adrian was born in Santa Cruz and raised in Bakersfield, California. He began his
academic journey at community college, earning an Associate of Arts in Business Administration.
He then went on to complete his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration at California
State University, Bakersfield.
As an Administrative Coordinator, Adrian supports the daily operations of the Student
Success Center and is committed to creating an efficient and welcoming environment
for students and staff.
In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer, watching movies, and spending time outdoors.
Office: MacQuarrie Hall 533
Email: adrian.campos@sjsu.edu
