Marissa Bastian, M.A.

Marissa Bastian (she/her/hers) serves as the program coordinator for research and data analytics with the Center for First-generation Student Success and also supports the Network Champion phase of the First Scholars program. Marissa brings more than a decade of experience working in and adjacent to higher education. Prior to joining NASPA, Marissa was a Partner Success Manager at an ed-tech company, working with institutions of higher education to bring scalable peer tutoring programs to their campuses. For most of her career, Marissa directed collegiate peer tutoring programs in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida; she also supported institutional assessment efforts, working on projects related to student learning outcomes, program review, and regional accreditation. Marissa paired this work with her service on the College Reading and Learning Association national board, working with colleagues across the country to advance the work of peer tutoring, peer mentoring, and developmental education practitioners and faculty.

Marissa received her M.A. in English from Boston College and her B.A. in English and History from Assumption University (then College). Originally from Rhode Island, Marissa lives in Florida with her husband and young son.