After a thoughtful national search to replace former director Chris Sogge, the WSU College of Nursing welcomes Dr. Lesley Hernandez-Silva, ’17, as the new director of the Center for Student Excellence.
The College connected with Hernandez-Silva while she was transitioning from Texas to Washington, opening the door to conversations about student support, belonging, and leadership. A WSU alum, Hernandez-Silva brings both professional expertise and a personal connection to the Coug Nurse community.
Below, she shares more about her approach and what students can expect.
What excites you most about this role?
The opportunity to walk alongside students as they navigate their academic and personal journeys! I’m especially excited to help build systems that make students feel seen, supported, and empowered as they move through their programs and into the nursing profession.
What do you want students to know about you?
That I genuinely care about your success and well-being and that my door is always open. I grew up in a low-income, rural agricultural community and was a first-generation college student — including being the first in my family to earn a PhD. Those experiences truly shape how I show up for students and it’s why I believe access, support, and belonging matter so much. I don’t expect anyone to have it all figured out and I’m an adamant believer that asking for help is a sign of strength. My hope is that students feel comfortable reaching out, feel supported when things get tough, and know there’s someone in their corner as they work toward their education.
What are you most looking forward to in your first year?
Getting to know students and staff, learning how the College supports students across programs, and building partnerships that enhance the student experience.
Share one word that describes your approach to student support.
Intentional
Pick three words to describe your leadership style.
People-centered, collaborative, and organized.
Finish the sentence: “At WSU College of Nursing, students can expect _.”
At WSU College of Nursing, students can expect a community that cares about your growth, well-being, and success.
Coffee or tea?
A cup of coffee in the morning and a sugar-free monster for lunch for an extra boost of energy (bad habits are hard to break!)
Early mornings or late nights?
While I can do both, my brain is the most creative and productive at night.
Share one book, podcast, or playlist you’re enjoying right now?
Latino USA (podcast)
Lo-fi beats for workday/focus time
What does “Go Cougs” mean to you?
As a WSU alum (class of 2017!), “Go Cougs” represents a sense of pride, resilience, and community. I might be biased but after studying and working across multiple institutions, nothing has ever quite matched the feeling of being a Coug.
Dr. Hernandez-Silva will officially begin her role in January 2026, and the College of Nursing looks forward to welcoming her to campus. We are excited to see how her people-centered leadership and commitment to student support will strengthen the student experience and contribute to the continued growth of the College. Go Cougs!
