An Interview with Dr. Frank Rojas, the New Vice President of Enrollment Management
Relocating from sunny California to nippy New England in the dead of winter might not be for everyone, but Dr. Frank Rojas is used to traveling. In his career in higher education, over several years, Dr. Rojas logged over 300,000 airline miles per year, establishing online and on-ground programs around the world. And when he is not working, he relaxes by literally keeping moving…read on!
Q: You are making a bi-coastal move. Why Bay Path?
A: For me, it a lot has to do with Bay Path University’s mission. Throughout my career, I have been committed to providing access to higher education for all students, particularly those on the fringe or marginalized. Most of my efforts in higher education have been working with non-traditional populations. Bay Path presents a unique opportunity to serve students while following my own personal mission in that regard. Also, in Bay Path’s mission statement, the words innovation and service also resonated with me on many levels as well. This, coupled with its commitment to student success, positions Bay Path well. I am just fortunate to be a part of this.
Q: How or why did you pursue a career in higher education?
A: The seeds for this career direction were planted in my own educational experience. My wife and I were married young. We started a family, and I had to work. I was very successful working in a national company selling nail polish, but I wanted to move forward in my career. To do that, I needed to earn a degree. At the time, there weren’t many options available for working adults. I enrolled in DeVry University. Fast forward in my career—I was doing very well, but then I had a transformative life event. With the passing of my mother, the importance of family became more powerful. My wife and I decided I should take a step back and focus on family. So, I went to the career services department at DeVry. There were openings for admissions counselors. My experience as a student was so positive I decided to apply. It was a leap of faith. My application was rejected for that position. I was told I would not make it as an admissions representative. As luck would have it, or serendipity, my resume landed on another person’s desk. I was offered a position as a field recruiter. The role was to work with high schools, prospective students, and their parents and inform them of the opportunities at DeVry. I was hired, and my new life, my vocation, began on April 18, 1999. Since then, I have had an amazing experience in higher education. I have been fortunate to work with universities and their students across the globe. Through a number of opportunities, I have helped institutions establish online and on-ground programs in Brazil, other countries in Latin America, and eventually around the world.
Q: Teams are very important in the enrollment management process. What is your philosophy on team building?
A: I believe that you have to meet people where they are. You have to know the people you are working with, and have a genuine interest in each of them as a person and a professional. As a leader, my focus is connecting people with why they do things with the how they do things. Through the years, I can honestly say that working with my teams has shaped me as a leader as much as I have shaped them. My teams have helped me become my best self while I have helped them be their best. I love to look at leadership and team building as mutual growth.
Q: Everyone needs to re-energize. What do you like to do in your free time?
A: I have three ways that I like to relax. Firstly, I believe in service. God has gifted to me serve. I have been called to serve in the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego as a member of the Executive Council and other roles. I find purpose and serenity by working and helping others. It moves my motor. Secondly, I ride Harley Davidson motorcycles. In fact, most of my family rides—my wife and two daughters. There is nothing better than being on the open road and connecting with the elements and the environment. We cannot wait to explore the Northeast on two wheels. I understand there are some amazing rides here. Thirdly, I play competitive soccer in an adult league. I love the exercise, comraderies, and energy. I am a goalkeeper, and I can hold my own. Although, at 52, maybe I am a legend in my own mind. I believe everyone should have passions in their lives to keep them balanced.
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