Meet Our Staff

Viviana Zambrano is the Director for the Office for Student Retention and Educational Innovation. As a two-time Seton Hall University graduate, Viviana holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters of Education in Counseling.

Prior to joining Kean University, she worked as a Counselor/Academic Advisor in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOF) at Montclair State University. Viviana has also worked with the EOF programs at Seton Hall University and Rutgers University. In addition, she served as Chair of the Emergency Assistance Fund and as a State Schools Sector Representative on the Educational Opportunity Fund Professional Association Board (EOFPANJ). 

Before joining Kean University, she worked as a Counselor/Academic Advisor in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOF) at Montclair State University. Viviana has also worked with the EOF programs at Seton Hall University and Rutgers University. In addition, she served as Chair of the Emergency Assistance Fund and as a State Schools Sector Representative on the Educational Opportunity Fund Professional Association Board (EOFPANJ).

Viviana is an alumna of Upward Bound and EOF Programs. She understands the importance of mentorship and is a strong advocate for college access, especially for First Generation College students.

When she's not working, Viviana loves to read, go to Broadway shows, and spend time with her family.

Maria Briffa serves as the Coordinator for Student Retention and Academic Technology for the Office of Student Retention & Educational Innovation. 

Maria earned her B.A. in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University. During her time as a graduate assistant at Kean, she worked with the Office of Student Success and Retention, where she provided Academic Coaching to students and worked on retention efforts. Maria earned her Master's Degree from the Nathan Weiss Graduate College at Kean University, focusing on College Counseling and Student Services.

Maria is committed to advocating for students, educating our Kean community on available resources, and collaborating with all community members to assist students on their college journey.

Mr. Christopher Sclafani, '23, '24 M.A., is a distinguished professional serving as the Student Success Coordinator in the esteemed Office for Student Retention & Educational Innovation at Kean University. A devoted two-time alumnus of Kean University, he earned his B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Community Health Education, showcasing a commitment to the holistic well-being of individuals. His academic journey continued with attaining an M.A. in Psychology, specializing in Human Behavior & Organizational Psychology, a testament to his scholarly pursuits. 

During his tenure as a student, Mr. Sclafani distinguished himself as a prominent member of the Leadership Institute within the Center for Leadership and Service at Kean University. His influence extended to the President's Advisory Council, working closely with Kean University President Dr. Lamont Repollet. Additionally, he served as a valued member of the Kean University Board of Trustees, contributing significantly to the university's strategic direction. Mr. Sclafani, under the guidance of the Vice President for Student Affairs, played a pivotal role in spearheading impactful student programming initiatives and establishing enduring partnerships that continue to thrive today. 

Notably, Mr. Sclafani is an esteemed member of the Lambda Sigma Alpha honors society, Greek honors society, Order of Omega, and Psi Chi national honor society in psychology, attesting to his academic prowess and commitment to excellence. 

In his graduate school tenure, Mr. Sclafani further solidified his dedication to student success by serving as a Graduate Assistant in the Office for Student Retention & Educational Innovation. This experience allowed him to hone his skills and knowledge, empowering him to guide students on their academic journeys at Kean University effectively. 

As an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology, Mr. Sclafani imparts his expertise to undergraduate and graduate students, elevating the educational experience through his insightful courses. Chris is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology; he remains at the forefront of academic inquiry and research. 

Mr. Sclafani's passion for working with students is evident in his unwavering commitment to helping them achieve their best daily. His multifaceted roles and academic pursuits underscore a career characterized by excellence, leadership, and a profound dedication to the educational advancement of others. Chris also holds professional certifications as a Nationally Certified Dementia Practitioner, a Certified Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management, a NASPA member, and a Society for Industrial/Organizational Psychology member.

Arely Ayala serves as a Student Success Coordinator for the Office of Student Retention & Educational

Innovation. Arely earned her B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Montclair State University and her Master's in Social Work from Fordham University. Additionally, Arely is a Licensed Social Worker for the State of NY and NJ. 

Prior to joining Kean University, she worked as the Director of Enrollment Management in the Center for Excellence Department at Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC - where she supported NYC mentors and mentees from enrollment to matching.  
Arely is a first-generation student and understands the importance of advocating for college access and success. When she's not working, Arely loves to stay active by running, going to the gym, or taking an F45 class. She also loves spending time with her husband, pup, and family/friends.