Five-Minute Feature: Nicholas Mendez, Assistant Director of the Empire Promise Program, Presidential Scholars, and Military Veteran Opportunity Programs

Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now!

What led you to your career path?

I have always said that higher education was something I fell into. I didn’t even know this was something I could have a career in until I began working as an admissions ambassador (tour guide) for my alma mater as an undergraduate student. I enjoyed meeting and telling prospective students and their families about the institution, my experiences there, and advice on what to consider as they visit other colleges/universities and decide where to go. As I got closer to graduation, I knew I wanted to continue in my work in higher education and pursue [it] professionally. It was a natural progression.

What is your favorite thing about SUNY Empire?

My favorite thing about SUNY Empire is how collaborative my colleagues are. Everyone I know at the institution is always willing to share their knowledge and ideas. I enjoy being a resource provider for staff, faculty, and students, and it’s rewarding to pay forward what I have learned from my colleagues along the way.   

What’s one moment in your career you’re especially proud of?

One moment I am especially proud of in my career has been joining the Opportunity Programs (OP) team at SUNY Empire. After completing my master’s in higher education and nearly a decade in recruitment, I was ready to take a more direct role in supporting students. While I enjoyed recruitment, I wanted to build ongoing relationships with students beyond the admissions process — another natural progression in my career.  I remember talking to my supervisor at the time, Andrea Hennessey (now our VP of Enrollment Management and Marketing), about my career goals. That conversation led me to take on the role of the Empire State Opportunity Program (ESOP) advisor part-time, while continuing in recruitment, shortly after earning my master’s degree. Andrea supported my growth even beyond her department—something I will forever be grateful for. It demonstrated that SUNY Empire has fostered a culture where leaders recognize potential development across the institution—not just within teams or departments.

Being in OP is also meaningful to me on a personal level too. Having participated in TRiO programs, similar to OP, in high school and undergrad, I know firsthand the impact these supports can have.  Being able to support our students and contribute to OP’s growth, almost since its inception at SUNY Empire, continues to be incredibly rewarding.

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be? 

If I could master any skill, it would be fluency in any language—being able to communicate effortlessly with anyone in the world. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and love picking up new words or phrases when traveling. It would be nice to take that passion even further. More importantly, having fluency in every language would help break down communication barriers and create a sense of belonging for people who might otherwise feel unseen.

Who’s someone at the university who inspires you?

Malongze Foma, our coordinator of regional operations – downstate, is an inspiration to me. She continues to be an incredible resource and has played a big role in my personal and professional growth at the institution. I am privileged to call her a colleague, friend, and mentor.