Bay Path University Appoints Dr. Kerri Jarzabski as Dean of Retention and Advising

LONGMEADOW, MA — Bay Path University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kerri Jarzabski as its new Dean of Retention and Advising, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education and a deep commitment to student success.

Dr. Jarzabski most recently served at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the Office of Student Affairs and Campus Life while completing her doctoral work. Prior to that, she spent more than 20 years at Western New England University, where she held a series of increasingly senior leadership roles, including Vice President for Student Affairs.

“As Bay Path continues to strengthen our coordinated approach to advising and student success, Dr. Jarzabski’s collaborative leadership and data-informed approach will be invaluable. Her experience in building partnerships across academic and student affairs will help us further enhance the systems that support student persistence and achievement,” said Dr. Natalia Blank, Vice President of Academic Affairs.

In her new role at Bay Path, Dr. Jarzabski will lead the University’s efforts to strengthen retention and advising strategies across its newly unified institution (Bay Path University and Cambridge College), with a focus on leveraging data, enhancing the student experience, and supporting student success at every stage of the academic journey.

“I am honored to join Bay Path University at such an exciting time,” said Dr. Jarzabski. “I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty and staff to build on the University’s strong foundation and create innovative, inclusive approaches that empower all students to thrive.”

Dr. Jarzabski earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her doctoral research focused on the first-year experience and supporting neurodivergent students, reflecting her dedication to inclusivity and holistic student support. She also holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a Master of Arts in Higher Education: Student Personnel Administration from Teachers College Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Communications from Western New England University, where she graduated magna cum laude. 

About Bay Path University

Founded in 1897, Bay Path University serves over 4,500 students through its traditional undergraduate program for women, Bay Path Online offering bachelor’s degrees for women and men, and a range of master’s and doctoral programs. On July 1, 2024, Bay Path acquired Cambridge College, uniting two institutions with a shared mission to provide innovative, career-focused education to students of all backgrounds, including working adults and first-generation learners.