With a strong commitment to collective work and the ongoing consolidation of the School of Social Work as a national and international reference, Professor Andrea Hernández Quirama has been officially appointed as the new Director of the School for the 2025–2027 term.
A graduate of the Social Work program at the Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS), Professor Hernández brings over 17 years of teaching experience at the institution, as well as a notable track record in academic administration, including her previous role as Director of Research and Extension of the Faculty of Human Sciences.
“I take on this new challenge with great excitement, high expectations, and a deep desire to work and do things well. My goals include strengthening the School’s internal processes, advancing curriculum reform, achieving accreditation, and working closely with our faculty, students, alumni, and institutional partners,” said the new Director.
She also extended an invitation to the entire academic community: “Let’s work collectively and make a strong, united effort to continue projecting and positioning the School of Social Work as a regional, national, and even global benchmark.”The Faculty of Human Sciences welcomed the appointment with optimism. Dean Luis Fernando Arévalo Viveros highlighted Professor Hernández’s background as a key strength for the role.
“Professor Andrea Hernández brings valuable academic and administrative experience. We are confident she will promote teaching, research, and outreach with the interdisciplinary approach that has always defined her. The School of Social Work plays a vital role in the university’s regional outreach, thanks to the commitment of its faculty and students to social engagement and regional development,” he stated.
During the ceremony, a special acknowledgment was given to outgoing director, Professor Ana María Loaiza, for her dedication and leadership. Reflecting on her time in the role, she shared:
“I believe empathy has been the most important lesson. From the outside, it’s easy to comment on or suggest how things should be done. But this position allows you to truly understand the complexity of decision-making. I walk away with a deeper sense of solidarity and appreciation for the human side of leadership—we’re all learning and growing together.”
Through this leadership transition, the School of Social Work reaffirms its commitment to critical, transformative education and to building strong, interdisciplinary connections with society through academic engagement.
