Nadia Eslinger, Ed.D.
Director of Bear Life Program
Student Success Services
Dr. Nadia Eslinger is the Director of the BEAR Life Program at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA). She holds an Educational Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Maryville University, a Master of Education in College Student Personnel Services and Administration from UCA, and a Bachelor of Arts in History/African American Studies from UCA.
Dr. Eslinger’s unwavering commitment to higher education is evident in her professional journey. After completing her master’s degree, she dedicated eight years to Housing and Residence Life, serving as a Residence Hall Coordinator and an Assistant Area Coordinator at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Her commitment was further demonstrated when she had the opportunity to build and open a brand new residence hall. She also worked as an Area Coordinator at Arkansas State University, overseeing multiple residence halls. Returning to UCA, she was an Academic Advisor for three years and Associate Director of Student Success for four years, overseeing the success coaching program, First Gen @ UCA, Academic Recovery, and Navigate. In her current role, she directs the BEAR Life Program, focusing on providing comprehensive support to low-income students.
During her nine years at UCA, Dr. Eslinger has held various roles, including Academic Advisor, Assistant Director of Student Success, Associate Director of Student Success, and Director of the BEAR Life Program. She has also served as the Staff Senate President, contributing to the governance and development of the university.
As the Director of the BEAR Life Program, Dr. Eslinger’s key goals include providing coaching, financial literacy education, and comprehensive support to low-income students. Her primary focus is closing the achievement gap between low-income students and their peers, ensuring that every student has the tools and resources needed to succeed in college. One of the program’s key initiatives is to offer personalized coaching to help students navigate academic and personal challenges. Additionally, the program enhances financial literacy among students, providing them with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively. Dr. Eslinger aims to create an inclusive environment where every student feels supported and capable of reaching their full potential, ultimately leading to higher retention and graduation rates for low-income students.
Dr. Eslinger defines student success as helping students thrive academically and personally in all areas of their lives. It’s about getting good grades and graduating, and developing critical thinking skills, emotional well-being, and career readiness. She believes personalized support, financial aid, mental health resources, and creating a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging learning environment are key to helping students succeed.
Dr. Eslinger’s personal experiences as a first-generation student have deeply influenced her understanding of the challenges students face in navigating college. She understands the importance of support from advisors, mentors, and student services, as she has experienced it firsthand. Her experiences motivate her to provide the same guidance and support to students, helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. It is incredibly fulfilling for her to be part of their journey and see them thrive.
Outside of her professional role, Dr. Eslinger is kept busy by her two teenagers, and her desire for them to have access to higher education directly influences her professional role. She enjoys reading and listening to audiobooks, staying active through workouts, and spending time with friends and family.
Looking to the future, Dr. Eslinger envisions a dynamic and innovative Division of Enrollment Services and Student Success at UCA. She is excited about the potential for growth and development with new initiatives like BEAR Life and UCA Commitment to recruit and retain students. She is eager to embrace more technology and data-driven approaches to better support students. Her vision includes expanded programs and services for First-Generation Students and the provision of professional academic coaches. Additionally, she looks forward to enhancing the focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring every student feels welcome and supported on their journey to success.
Dr. Eslinger advises students at UCA to take full advantage of the resources and opportunities available to them. She encourages them to seek help from advisors, professors, and support services whenever needed, get involved in campus activities, join clubs, and connect with peers to build a strong support network. Most importantly, she emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and staying persistent, even when things get tough, as hard work and determination will pay off in the end.