T
here’s a new energy at Albizu University’s Miami Campus, and it comes with the arrival of Dr. Yianni Vassiliou as Chancellor. With nearly three decades of leadership in higher education, Dr. Vassiliou has dedicated his career to opening doors for students and expanding opportunities in underserved communities. His journey has taken him through leadership roles at the University of Miami, St. Thomas University, Miami Dade College, and community colleges in Pennsylvania and Arizona, each experience adding to the depth of perspective he brings to Albizu.
For him, the move to Albizu was personal. “What drew me to Albizu is its distinctive mission. I felt it was a great alignment with my values and goals. And it gives me the opportunity to combine my lifelong commitment to student success with a mission-driven institution that directly improves health and resilience in the communities we serve.”
That purpose is already shaping his vision for the year ahead. At the top of his list: expanding academic programs in fields where demand and community impact are growing. New offerings in behavioral health, sports psychology, performance optimization, analytics, AI, cybersecurity, and bilingual healthcare are on the horizon, with four programs awaiting final accreditation. Each blends disciplines to prepare students for a rapidly evolving workforce.
“What drew me to Albizu is its distinctive mission.”
Technology is another cornerstone of his plan. From advanced advising systems to strengthened career services, the goal is to make the student journey more connected, seamless, and successful. The Goodman Center, the campus clinic, will also broaden its reach, bringing more mental health and speech-language services to Miami and beyond.
But Dr. Vassiliou knows that a vibrant campus is about more than academics. This year will see the introduction of professional certificates, stackable credentials, expanded research opportunities, and intercollegiate athletics, starting with men’s and women’s soccer. Clubs, wellness initiatives, and flexible hybrid learning models are also in the works to foster connection and engagement. Partnerships will play a vital role, from building dual-enrollment pipelines with local high schools to strengthening ties with state and community colleges, healthcare providers, and nonprofits. International collaborations are taking shape as well, with training programs for professionals from Colombia and Mexico.
“I lead with collaboration and participation.”
Underlying it all is a commitment to the people who make Albizu’s mission possible. Dr. Vassiliou is focused on open dialogue, professional development, investment in technology, and celebrating successes, big and small. “I believe in collaboration, and I lead with collaboration and participation, engagement, and recognition, which is critically important.” As he looks ahead, his goal is clear: to make Albizu University Miami a first-choice destination for culturally competent education, recognized for its academic excellence, community impact, and spirit of innovation.
