Bay Path University Names Kerri Jarzabski Dean of Retention and Advising

Kerri Jarzabski

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced the appointment of Kerri Jarzabski as its new dean of Retention and Advising. She brings more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education and a deep commitment to student success.

Jarzabski most recently served at UMass 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,” said Natalia Blank, vice president of Academic Affairs. “Her experience in building partnerships across academic and student affairs will help us further enhance the systems that support student persistence and achievement.”

In her new role at Bay Path, 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,” she said. “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.”

Jarzabski earned her PhD in higher education from UMass 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 UMass Amherst, a master’s degree in higher education: student personnel administration from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a bachelor’s degree in English literature and communications from Western New England University, where she graduated magna cum laude.