Zaibis Munoz-Isme
Assistant Vice President of Inclusive Leadership & Learning
OIE | Office of Inclusive Excellence
Degrees
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership; Southern New Hampshire University
Master's degree in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Conflict Analysis and Resolution; Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor's degree in Religion with a minor in Theories and Politics of Sexuality; University of Florida
Bio
Dr. Zaibis Muñoz-Isme is the Assistant Vice President of Inclusive Leadership and Learning in the office of Inclusive Excellence. Dr. Muñoz-Isme is a dynamic leader in higher education, renowned for her dedication to equity, and inclusion and her advocacy to amplify voices. As a Latina senior leader, Dr. Muñoz-Isme has spent her career championing initiatives that drive institutional transformation, empower marginalized communities, and foster environments where all individuals can thrive.
Prior to joining AU, Dr. Muñoz-Isme spent 14 years in New York, working in Student Affairs at various institutions including most recently as Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at Hofstra University. Her role there managed a large portfolio of student affairs units including but limited to Dean of Students, Title IX, Student Leadership, Residence Life, Career Services, and First Gen Offices, where she was able to focus on restructuring the division efficiently to maximize student success.
Her doctoral research centers on the recruitment and retention of Latinas in senior executive roles at predominantly white private institutions. Through this work, Dr. Muñoz-Isme sheds light on the systemic barriers and facilitators Latinas face and the powerful impact of their leadership in shaping institutional change. Passionate about storytelling and representation, she amplifies the voices of Latinas in higher education, advocating for their place in leadership and their ability to drive meaningful progress.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Muñoz-Isme is originally from Miami and a proud mom of two and the wife of a Division I Women’s basketball coach. She gracefully balances the demands of her career, family, and the unique challenges and joys of being part of a collegiate athletics family. This lived experience enriches her perspective, reinforcing her commitment to advocating for holistic support systems for students and professionals alike.
