USC MCM Diverse Academic and Professional Faculty

Cynthia A. Martinez, PhD

Cynthia A. Martinez is an administrator, educator and consultant with 20 years of experience in higher education. In her current role as dean of students at the Keck Graduate Institute, she provides leadership, vision, and direction for activities and services that enhance students’ experiences and engagement. She also facilitates open communication and information sharing between the students and the administration. Previously, Martinez served as the interim assistant dean of student affairs and executive director of advisement and academic services at USC Annenberg. She has demonstrated experience in managing and communicating change, problem-solving, decision-making, conflict resolution, negotiation and counseling. Prior to her career in higher education, she was a health care administrator managing resources and services for cancer patients and caregivers at City of Hope National Cancer Institute.

She currently teaches in the Master in Communication Management program at USC Annenberg. In addition, Martinez has previously taught graduate and undergraduate courses at the USC Rossier School of Education and the University of San Diego School of Leadership and Education Sciences. Martinez presents at state, regional, national and international professional conferences. She is an active member of the International Leadership Association, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, and the Academy of Management. Her current research interests include global leadership, women in leadership, student leadership development, emotional intelligence, intercultural competency models and optimizing the use of technology in the classroom.

In her role as a consultant, Martinez coaches and facilitates workshops and training sessions on communication and change styles, business strategies, leadership development, and emotional intelligence. She is certified to train, coach, consult and administer the EQ-I Emotional Quotient Assessment, the Change Style Indicator, and the Global Mindset Inventory.