The Staff

Dominique Vargas (She/Her)

Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Master of Ed – Counselor Education from Sul Ross State University
Master of Arts from University of Southern California
Bachelor of Arts from Sul Ross State University

503-838-9518 | vargasd@wou.edu | Lieuallen Admin #302

Dominique Vargas is the inaugural Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Prior to WOU, Dominique was the inaugural Executive Director and Associate Dean of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Wisconsin-Stout for three years. Dominique also spent nine years serving students at Sul Ross State University, an HSI in Alpine, Texas. Dominique was a first generation, low income, Puerto Rican student when she first started her college career back in the early 2000s. Dominique has made it her priority to increase access to higher education opportunities for historically excluded and exploited communities. Dominique attempts to utilize an equity lens in every aspect of her work and is also committed to being a lifelong learner, as recently demonstrated through her participation in and graduation from the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities La Academia De Liderazgo (2023-2024). 

Cristian Mendez Garcia (He/Him/El) hablo Español

Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives

Bachelor of Science in Art from Western Oregon University

503-751-4142 | mendezgarciac@wou.edu | Lieuallen Admin #302

Cristian Mendez Garcia is the Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Initiatives at Western Oregon University (WOU), where he plays a pivotal role in advancing the university’s efforts to earn Federal HSI designation. By working closely with current students and fostering strong partnerships with local community organizations, Cristian is committed to helping WOU transition from an Emerging HSI to a fully recognized Federal HSI, with a primary focus on enhancing “Servingness” and improving access to higher education for underrepresented populations.

Originally from Mexico, Cristian is deeply passionate about the transformative power of education. As an immigrant, he understands firsthand how pursuing higher education can open doors to greater opportunities and a better quality of life. Cristian is a proud alumnus of Western Oregon University, having earned his degree in 2008. His personal experience as a student at WOU, combined with his professional work, drives his dedication to creating a more inclusive and supportive campus environment for all students.