Dean of Students

Yolanda Benally began her career at San Juan College in 2008 as an advisor for the TRIO Educational Talent Search program, eventually being promoted to Director. After a brief time away, she returned in 2019 to serve as an advisor and director for the TRIO Student Support Services and STEM-H programs, while also teaching a First-Year Experience (FYEX) course. Much of her professional experience has been focused on federal grant programs such as TRIO and GEAR UP.

Ms. Benally brings valuable experience in grant writing and management, budgeting, student advising, and building connections with community resources. She currently serves as the Dean of Students at San Juan College.

She holds Master's degrees in Criminal Justice and Public Administration, along with Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Government, all from New Mexico State University. She also earned an Alternative Licensure Program Certificate from San Juan College. Ms. Benally is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education with an emphasis in Community College Leadership at Kansas State University.

In her current role, Ms. Benally oversees the college’s student conduct process and serves as a Title IX Deputy Coordinator. She also provides leadership for several student-focused departments and programs, including the Native American Center, Herencia Latina Center, Housing & Residential Life, and a range of support programs housed within Student Services: TRIO Student Support Services & SSS STEM-H, TRIO Educational Opportunity Center, TRIO Upward Bound, and the NASNTI Native S.O.A.R. initiative.