As a proud first-generation college graduate, Dr. Alonzo O'Shae Ross embraces this integral part of his identity and dedicates himself to supporting others on similar journeys. He is passionate about advocating for education within his community, focusing on increasing college access and success for all students. His primary goal is to build equitable and inclusive systems that empower students, particularly those from marginalized or underserved backgrounds. By addressing their unique challenges with holistic support and retention strategies, Dr. Ross strives to help students thrive. He leverages early college programs, student success strategies, and first-year experiences to drive meaningful student success and access.

Dr. Ross brings extensive expertise in crafting innovative solutions, coaching for excellence, and building high-performing, student-centered teams. His dedication to delivering exceptional service matches his focus on optimizing administrative processes and enhancing student retention. A skilled collaborator, he forges partnerships tailored to the diverse needs of the communities he serves, exemplifying his compassionate and intentional leadership style.

Dr. Ross has also reimagined the First-Year Experience with a curriculum redesign for the New Student Experience course featuring curated student engagement activities as well as a united text, Teach Yourself How to Learn: Strategies You Can Use to Ace Any Course at Any Level by Dr. Saundra McGuire emphasizing metacognition and study strategies to succeed assisting in retention from first to second year. 

Dr. Ross has contributed to the field through presentations to advance equity in education, most notably at the Indiana Black Expo Educator's Conference entitled Addressing Inequities in Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment – Strategies for Leveling the Playing Field, which reflects his dedication to equity-focused leadership. Similarly, this work culminated in his dissertation, Comparing the Leadership Styles of Concurrent Enrollment Teachers and Administrators in Indiana High Schools, which compared how race and gender dynamics shape leadership and urged policymakers to address these dimensions in designing leadership programs. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Ross actively contributes to his community. He serves on the board of a local charter school, Indiana Math and Science Academy, as the development committee chairman. He participates in a youth mentoring program, showcasing his unwavering dedication to holistic education and youth empowerment. 

Dr. Ross holds a bachelor's and master's in Business Administration and a doctorate in Educational Leadership, specializing in Student Affairs Administration. His inspiring journey demonstrates a strong commitment to making a lasting impact in education and beyond.