Wendy Garay

As the First-Year Class Dean, I am a person who can help you navigate your first year at college and be a source of advising and support. I provide information and guidance to all first-year students throughout the year via meetings, workshops, and blog postings, and you can meet with me individually during walk-in hours or appointment times to talk about questions that may arise or concerns that you may have.

As a supplemental adviser to all first-year students, I can also help you identify the many people on campus who can help answer your questions and provide assistance if you experience an emergency or difficult extenuating circumstances during the year. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me if and when you need help, or if you’re just not sure where to direct a question.

The First-Year Class Blog will be an important resource of information for you throughout the year. Sometimes the blog postings will remind you of important deadlines coming up, and sometimes the postings will inform you of special events and opportunities. The blog is also the site where you can find links to other offices on campus who can provide both guidance and advice about specific questions. So be sure to bookmark the blog site and check it at least once or twice a week.

About Me

I am a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and have been at Barnard since October of 2015. Prior to this role, I was the Associate Dean for International and Intercultural Student Programs at the College. I started my career in higher education in 1996, building my experience in enrollment management, student affairs, and international education at institutions in the US and overseas.

I am also a proud women's college alumna, earning a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Marymount College Tarrytown. My master's degree is in Higher Education Administration. Presently, I am a doctoral candidate, and devote a considerable amount of time to dissertation writing. Travel and yoga are my favorite ways to find balance and perspective as well as manage day-to-day stress.

I look forward to meeting you soon and invite you to stop by for a chat or a quick hello!

Wendy Garay
First-Year Class Dean 
Senior Associate Dean of Studies