About Community Engagement and Belonging

Dr. Nick Vela-Negrete is the Vice President of Student Affairs at Otis College of Art and Design, where he leads efforts that advance student success, campus culture, and belonging. With over 22 years of experience in higher education, he has held leadership roles at UC Santa Barbara, Cal State LA, the University of Vermont, and Otis College, focusing on inclusive excellence and community engagement. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies and a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Vermont, and a bachelor’s in Psychology and Chicano Studies from UC Santa Barbara. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring California’s beaches with his husband and their golden doodle, Parker.

As the Director of Community Engagement and Belonging at Otis College, Dr. Lucas works to support the College’s strategic planning as it relates to belonging and community engagement, facilitates programs and educational opportunities that build an inclusive and affirming campus environment, and leads Otis College’s Council on Community Engagement and Belonging to move the College in ways that align with our commitment to inclusive excellence. The Director of Community Engagement and Belonging role reports directly to the Vice President of Student Affairs, and provides advisory support and consultation to senior team, in partnership with the Vice President..

Dr. Lucas is committed to expanding and enhancing Otis College’s DEIB efforts along with key stakeholders across the campus, including the Vice President of Student Affairs and the College’s Council on Community Engagement and Belonging, and co-creating a campus environment that empowers all community members to engage deeply in building meaningful relationships across difference.