Irina L. Milanese

Passionate about creating inclusive, diverse, and accessible environments in higher education. Currently pursuing a Master of Education in Higher Education Leadership at Villanova University while serving as a Dual Graduate Assistant in the Office of Graduate Studies and Department of Education.

Professional Experience

Dual Graduate Assistant in the Office of Graduate Studies and Department of Education

Villanova University

August 2025 - Present

Support the needs of the Office of Graduate Studies, particularly in areas such as recruitment and programming. Aid as a desk assistant to inform prospective graduate students about the application process via phone and email. Provide support on educational research and special projects within the Department of Education and Counseling. Lead campus tours to graduate students who are interested in the program.

Programming Coordinator

Columbia University

May 2025 - August 2025

Assisted the Associate Director in administrative duties, including project management of a specific functional area of the Pre-College Programs student life. Planned and coordinated student activity programs that align with the institutional mission and office goal. Oversaw data management and performed assessments to ensure best practices.

IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility) Coordinator at Student Activities Council

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

August 2024 - May 2025

Responsible for planning and implementing services and activities that support a diverse, safe, accessible, and inclusive environment equitable to the student body. Managed accessibility (including ADA compliance) and inclusion at SAC events. Set up and managed the sensory space during large-scale events.

Lead Team Building Manager at Sykes Student Union

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

January 2024 - May 2025

Increased efficiency and teamwork through holding team members accountable after hours. Facilitated open communication between building manager staff and professional staff through administrative tasks and weekly meetings. Coordinated social events and passive programming for staff to promote higher morale.

Building Manager at Sykes Student Union

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

August 2023 - January 2024

Managed building operations and student services at Sykes Student Union.

Orientation Leader

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

May 2023 - January 2024

Facilitated a sense of belonging by leading first-year students through an immersive experience that engages them in the campus culture. Educated families on the campus experience, and provided reassurance. Collaborated with campus partners to expose a diverse population to essential resources.

Education

Master of Education - Higher Education Leadership

Villanova University

2025 - 2027

Bachelor's degree - Psychology

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

2021 - 2025

Certifications

Social and Behavioral Responsible Conduct of Research

CITI Program

Conflicts of Interest

CITI Program

Social and Behavioral Research - Basic/Refresher

CITI Program

Skills & Expertise

Project ManagementEducational ResearchTrainingEvent Planning & CoordinationStudent ProgrammingDiversity & InclusionADA ComplianceTeam LeadershipData Management & Assessment