John Vasquez

Dr. John A. Vasquez serves as the Assistant Vice Provost for Student Success and Senior Director of the Comprehensive Studies Program (CSP) at the University of Michigan. In this role, Dr. Vasquez provides strategic leadership to advance inclusive excellence, develop high-impact student success initiatives, and foster cross-campus partnerships aligned with CSP’s mission. As a two-time University of Michigan alumnus and former CSP student, he brings over 25 years of experience in academic leadership, research, and student support, having worked across rural, urban, and flagship institutions. His national reputation as a student success strategist is bolstered by securing over $10 million in grant funding, managing institutional transformation initiatives, and presenting on topics such as academic advising reform, student belonging, and culturally responsive leadership. 

Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Vasquez is passionate about mentoring first-generation and historically underserved students, exploring the intersection of equity and well-being, and building communities where everyone can thrive. He is passionate about building community, sharing stories, and mentoring first-generation and underrepresented students. Dr. Vasquez also enjoys gardening, hiking, and kayaking, especially in and around the Great Lakes region. As he returns to lead CSP, Dr. Vasquez looks forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, and students to help shape the next chapter of CSP—one grounded in purpose, community, and transformative impact. He is especially excited to return “home” to the University of Michigan to help lead the program that shaped his own academic journey, ever dedicated to ensuring that all students are supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.