New AVP for Student Wellness and Accessibility Services

Ellie Ash-Balá, Ph.D., has joined Pitzer College as the new assistant vice president for student wellness and accessibility services. Ash-Balá brings a passion for educational equity and more than 20 years of experience in higher education and student affairs leadership.

“I’m excited to be at Pitzer because the values and mission align for me,” said Ash-Balá. “I’ll be working with great people here who care about students and put others first.”

Pitzer College educates students as critical thinkers, empathetic leaders, and agents of social change. Ash-Balá is drawn to Pitzer’s mission to instill the courage and compassion that students need to make a better world. As a human-centered leader, she advocates for Pitzer students’ wellbeing and success.

Ash-Balá is equally passionate about building up the professionals who support and educate students. Pitzer staff and faculty are eager to help students thrive, and Ash-Balá is primed for building those partnerships.

“Pitzer is a place that wants to work with each student to find ways for them to thrive,” said Ash-Balá. “That looks different for different students, and we’re committed to that.”

Ash-Balá’s career includes student wellness, crisis response, case management, Title IX, orientation, student engagement, and inclusive student support. Most recently she worked as the associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Ursinus College in eastern Pennsylvania. Ash-Balá also carries a deep familiarity with The Claremont Colleges. She is an alum of Claremont McKenna College and previously worked as the associate dean of campus life at Pomona College.

Ash-Balá’s first priority is getting to know Pitzer students and understanding their pressure points. Whether students face challenges in academics, mental health, accessibility, or adjusting to college life, Ash-Balá is ready to support students of all backgrounds and identities.

“What I want to do is remove barriers to create an equitable experience for students,” said Ash-Balá. “I’m always trying to think about who’s at the table and who’s excluded. Equity should be a consideration with every policy and process we set up.”

Meet Ash-Balá and the other Student Affairs staff who are ready to support students and parents.