5 Questions with JC Lopez

Interim Vice President of Student Affairs JC Lopez spent his formative years in Puerto Rico, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. He credits these different communities with helping him learn to embrace new perspectives, environments, and relationships — all vital skills for his role at Grinnell.

A fan of live music and concerts, Lopez also loves spending time with his friends and family and experiencing the outdoors, museums, art, movies, and theatre. He appreciates finding new restaurants to enjoy and especially chocolate ice cream with chocolate syrup and chocolate sprinkles. He kindly agreed to answer a few questions about his life, work, and experience so far at Grinnell.

Q: What was your experience like as a first-generation student, and how has that influenced your work in higher education and student affairs?

A: I am incredibly grateful for my parents, who strongly influenced me to attend college. They worked tirelessly to ensure I could have the experience and opportunities they did not have in life. Because of that, my undergraduate experience was filled with learning how to navigate processes. [I had] some incredible mentors that invested in my growth both personally and professionally; [they] assisted me in harnessing in my leadership skills outside of the classroom and encouraged me in my academic pursuits. I chose a career in higher education to support students in navigating and developing as undergraduates because of those who positively impacted my life and in turn give back to others within a community. With that said, I have kept my parents and mentors at the forefront of my career path, [and] being able to serve in this role acknowledges and appreciates their unconditional love and support.

Q: What has your experience been like so far in working with Grinnellians?

A: Wonderful! Everyone has been beyond kind, welcoming, and supportive. I am very grateful to have joined such a college community. I had the great fortune of being aware of the institution and community for several years. I have learned to appreciate the experience even more. What I have now learned and better understand being on campus for the past three months is Grinnellians’ authenticity, thoughtfulness, critical thinking, individual passions, creativity, and academic interests. It is such a special college community.

Q: What are you hoping to accomplish as interim vice president?

A: As the interim vice president this academic year, I want to focus on aspects of student affairs in collaboration with the entire division. My aim is … to have a positive impact on students and staff by focusing on five aspects: communication, collaboration, community, consistency, and career growth. Each of these has specific goals that align and connect the division with the College’s strategic plan.

Q: What are the three things that you want Grinnell students to know about the Division of Student Affairs?

A: The Division of Student Affairs aims to support Grinnell students in creating the student experience they want and by supporting learning outcomes that will help them be successful after college. The Division of Student Affairs team is truly dedicated and aims to provide a meaningful student experience. The team works on providing engagement, involvement, resources, and support. We are comprised of various areas, including: the Office of International Student Affairs (OISA); Student Health and Wellness (SHAW); Campus Safety; Student Support and Advocacy; Residence Life; Student Involvement; Center for Religious, Spiritual, and Social Justice (CRSSJ); and Student Conduct. We try to engage, foster community, and develop a sense of belonging. We are open to connecting and finding ways to enhance the outside of the classroom experience — just reach out, and we would be happy to meet individually.

Q: What is your favorite/most surprising aspect of Grinnell so far?

A: So far, at Grinnell College, I have appreciated getting to meet students [and learn about] their needs and interests. I love the variety of academic interests, research, and campus involvement. I have enjoyed having conversations and collaborations with the various offices on campus, like diversity, equity, and inclusion; Careers, Life, and Service; communications and marketing; admission; athletics; development and alumni relations; and community partnerships, planning, and research, to name a few. There is a common goal of supporting students’ experiences at Grinnell. It is great to see how our work is intertwined with a focus on providing resources, experiences, and mentoring. Personally, I have loved watching some incredible sunsets, embracing the school colors (scarlet and black), and finding spots to explore in and around town.

Bonus Question: What is your favorite holiday?

A: Los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day) is a holiday that reminds me of my grandparents, and I reflect on those childhood memories at the start of a new year. It was less about the holiday and presents and more about family, culture, and togetherness, and that is most meaningful.