Oakton Community College Welcomes New Learning Center Manager

GNA Garcia recently joined Oakton Community College as the manager of the Learning Center. Garcia, a native of Granger, Indiana, previously served as a residential educational psychologist for a Philadelphia company. In addition, Garcia worked as an adjunct educational psychology professor at the University of Connecticut and was the coordinator of student involvement at Seattle Central Community College.

In her new post at Oakton, Garcia will oversee the staff at the Learning Centers on both College campuses in Des Plaines (1600 East Golf Road), and Skokie (7701 North Lincoln Avenue). The Learning Center supports students through a variety of services including tutoring, study strategies and techniques, and workshops that enhance classroom learning. She also will work with colleagues to enhance the Learning Center’s use of innovative, assessment-driven practices that positively impact student learning and retention.

“This position is truly an exciting challenge,” said Garcia, who assumed her position on February 19. “The Learning Center plays a critical role in the College’s commitment to student success, and I’m proud to be a part of it. I can’t wait to put my energy and experience to work as we focus on new ways to improve Learning Center services.”

Garcia is an educational psychology doctoral candidate at the University of Connecticut. She received a master’s degree in college student development from Seattle University, and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and cultural anthropology from the University of Maryland. Garcia also is a veteran of the United States Air Force.