Dr. Graziella Pagliarulo McCarron (she/her) is an Associate Professor of Leadership Studies and Higher Education program faculty at George Mason University. As a former student/academic affairs practitioner and current faculty member, she has over two decades of experience centered around holistic student development. Situated in her own experiences as a first-generation college student and second-generation American, Dr. Pagliarulo McCarron’s research and practice focus on fostering climates of belonging, improving access for first-generation learners, reframing leadership education pedagogy to meet students’ changing needs, and exploring the intersections of inclusive, innovative pedagogy and student development.

A grateful member of ACPA since 2002, Dr. Pagliarulo McCarron first joined as a College Student Personnel master’s student while at the University of Maryland, College Park. For over 20 years, ACPA has been a vital professional home to her, offering many cherished opportunities to contribute and grow as an educator and person. Dr. Pagliarulo McCarron earned her B.S.B.A. from American University and both her master’s and Ph.D. in Counseling and Personnel Services (College Student Personnel) from the University of Maryland, College Park. She and her family call Aldie, Virginia home, and she is a proud mom to 7-year old Oliver––who has been the most spectacular teacher!