Nekesa Straker Ed.D.

In my role as the Senior Assistant Dean of Residential Life and First-Year Students, I am responsible for overseeing residential life initiatives to help orient and support students during their first year at Harvard, supervising the Resident Deans of First-Year Students, and training proctors and residential staff. I also partner with a number of other offices including serving as a member of the Administrative Board and planning and implementing orientation.

I joined Harvard in June 2019. Previously, I worked at Boston College, DePaul University, and New York University. I earned a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Regis College, a master’s degree in Student Development Administration from Seattle University, and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Vassar College. I am also a proud alumna of The Brearley School and Prep for Prep.

Outside of work, I enjoy international travel, riding my Peloton, and cooking. I also serve on the Boards of Trustees of The Aloha Foundation and The Brearley School.