Sara Mata

Dr. Sara Mata serves as the Executive Director of Hispanic Serving Initiatives and Assistant Teaching Professor in the Intervention Services and Leadership in Education (ISLE) department at Wichita State University. Her work focuses on advancing Hispanic student success and leadership development within higher education.

Her educational background includes:

• Bachelor’s in Sociology with an emphasis in Juvenile Corrections and Treatment from Oklahoma State University
• Master’s in Community Counseling from Oklahoma State University
• Master’s in Sociology from Oklahoma State University
• Doctorate in Social Foundations from Oklahoma State University

Dr. Mata's research and professional interests center on Hispanic Serving Institutions, higher education leadership, community engagement, and educational equity. As a first-generation and community college graduate, she brings a unique perspective to her work in student affairs and advocacy for underrepresented populations.

Her notable awards and honors include:

• 2022-2023 HACU La Academia de Liderazgo Fellow
• 2022 NASPA Pillar of the Profession

Dr. Mata actively contributes to community service through multiple leadership roles:

• Executive Committee, NASPA Foundation Board (Member at Large)
• NASPA Center for Women Board
• Vice President, Board of CASA of Sedgwick County
• Board Member, Mid America All-Indian Museum
• Scholarship Committee, Kansas Hispanic Education & Development Foundation
• Board Member, Podemos
• Board Member, Oklahoma Tribal Engagement Partners
• Citizens Review Board, City of Wichita