About

Rubén Barato, Ph.D. is a seasoned higher education leader with extensive experience advancing student success, equity, and enrollment management across community college settings. He currently serves as Vice President for Student Affairs at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, New York, where he oversees a broad portfolio of student support offices in Enrollment, Student Life, and Student Development. In this role, he also serves as president and chairperson of the Faculty Student Association Board of Directors.

Prior to his appointment at Hudson Valley (effective January 2026), Dr. Barato was Campus Dean of Student Affairs and Chief Student Affairs Officer at CT State Community College–Norwalk in Norwalk, Connecticut, where he led student services, engagement, and support functions in partnership with faculty and staff. He has held leadership positions at Massasoit Community College as Vice President of Student Services & Enrollment Management and previously spent over two decades at SUNY Westchester Community College in Valhalla, New York, where he developed programs and strategies in student life, enrollment management, and international student services. Earlier in his career, he held administrative roles at New York University and has taught as an adjunct faculty member at Baruch College, Long Island University, Manhattanville College, Fairfield University and Westchester Community College.

Dr. Barato earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and an M.A. in Counseling and Guidance from New York University and holds a B.A. in Psychology from Kean University. His work is characterized by a lifelong commitment to student advocacy, community partnerships, and inclusive institutional practices that support student pathways from enrollment through completion.