Ben Corpus brings over two decades of experience in recruiting and retaining students

By Walter Ryce

This past summer, Ben Corpus began his new role as CSU Monterey Bay’s vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. 

He comes with 21 years of experience as an executive in higher education, including as vice provost or vice president for enrollment management at public institutions where he managed recruitment, admissions and retention.

But he also knows the job from a different perspective. 

“As a Pell and EOP student, raised in the Bronx by a single mom, I was fortunate to have the connections and mentors in college who supported me, guided me and gave me the confidence to fulfill potential that I couldn’t see in myself before I got there,” Corpus said. “CSUMB is founded and structured to do the same for students who are in a similar place.”

He was attracted to CSUMB by the diversity of the campus, the student-focused leaders like the president, the location, and his view that the university is poised to build a modern and effective enrollment operation. 

“On a personal note, my brother and three nephews live in California, so that was definitely a nice bonus,” Corpus added. 

Since arriving, he’s also learned about and appreciated the faculty members' depth of research, their success in obtaining grants to support their work, and their commitment to student success, diversity and social justice.

“It is clear to me that [the faculty is] deeply committed to student success and often goes above and beyond to provide support, guidance and mentorship,” he said. 

President Vanya Quiñones welcomed his arrival. 

"I am happy to have Dr. Corpus on board as our new vice president for enrollment management and student affairs,” Quiñones said. “He is building important infrastructure and processes around enrollment management that will help us not only recruit diverse and talented students, but will also help us to ensure they find a sense of belonging at CSUMB."

CSUMB is the third institution in which Corpus has occupied the role of vice president of both Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. He said these are two sides of the same coin, both aimed at ensuring students succeed.

“We need to make sure we're recruiting the students who will thrive here, and we need to make sure we're providing the services and support that will keep them here and help them succeed,” Corpus said. 

For his division to reach its goals, he said, he encourages open dialogue and exchange, considers different perspectives, and then puts his faith in those around him. 

“I firmly believe that having faith in others is a strength,” he said. “It is what allows us to build trust, foster collaboration, and inspire the best in each other. Someone once took a chance on me, and it is my duty to do the same for others.”