Mariana Martindale

Mariana Martindale, a student in Gwynedd Mercy University's EdD program, understands the transformative power of education firsthand. As an educator, author, advocate, and founder of ALMA EmpowerHER, she is using her experiences to create opportunities for others while advancing research focused on leadership, belonging, and representation in higher education. 

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the United States, Mariana learned firsthand how education can transform lives. As a young student navigating a new culture and learning English as a second language, she found support in educators who believed in her potential and encouraged her to dream bigger. 

Those experiences ultimately inspired her to pursue an EdD in Higher Education Leadership at Gwynedd Mercy University, where she is expected to graduate in 2027. 

"Education gradually became a source of safety, possibility, and personal transformation," Mariana said. "I encountered remarkable educators who invested in my development and helped shape the person I am today." 

Finding a Home at GMercyU 

Mariana's path to GMercyU began unexpectedly. 

While attending another institution, she encountered challenges that left her searching for a more supportive academic environment. During a chance conversation with Dr. Marilyn Pendleton, she was encouraged to explore GMercyU's doctoral program. 

After meeting with Dr. Raymond Bandlow, Mariana knew she had found the right fit. 

When I reflect on that decision, I often say that Dr. Pendleton represented what was possible, while Dr. Bandlow created the sense of belonging that confirmed I had found the right institution.

GMercyU's commitment to service, social justice, compassion, integrity, and respect closely aligned with Mariana's own values and professional goals. 

"My work has always been grounded in the belief that education should serve as a pathway to opportunity, dignity, and collective advancement," she said. 

Experience in the EdD Program 

Throughout her doctoral journey, Mariana has found support and encouragement from faculty mentors who have challenged her to grow as a scholar and leader. 

Her dissertation chair, Dr. Amber Gentile, has had a particularly meaningful impact. 

"Before she became my chair, reviewed my chapters, or offered scholarly guidance, Dr. Gentile was approachable, welcoming, and deeply human," Mariana said. "Those qualities allowed me to trust her." 

She also credits Dr. Tamara Smith, Dr. Peggy Kerr, and Dr. Tiffany Cresswell-Yeager for helping strengthen her scholarly voice and deepen her understanding of leadership, mentorship, and cultural humility. 

Mariana’s Dissertation 

Mariana's dissertation explores the lived experiences of Latina women navigating leadership positions in higher education. Her research focuses on representation, belonging, and creating pathways for future leaders. 

That work inspired her to launch ALMA EmpowerHER, a mentorship and leadership initiative dedicated to supporting first-generation Latinas through education, advocacy, and community. 

"ALMA was created from the belief that no Latina should have to climb alone," Mariana said. 

Her commitment to empowering others also led her to become a published author. Drawing on her personal experiences, cultural heritage, and doctoral research, Mariana wrote The Colors of My Voice / Los Colores de Mi Voz, a bilingual children's book that celebrates identity, voice, and belonging. 

The book recently became part of a presentation she delivered to undergraduate education students at the University of Dubuque, where she spoke about cultural humility, diversity, and creating inclusive classrooms. 

I want future teachers to create classrooms where children's cultures, languages, stories, and voices are valued.

Post-Graduation 

As she works toward completing her doctorate, Mariana plans to continue expanding ALMA EmpowerHER, mentoring future leaders, and translating her research into meaningful opportunities for others. 

She also hopes to someday serve as a faculty member and dissertation chair, helping future doctoral students discover their own potential. 

For Mariana, the journey has always been about opening doors for others. 

Do not allow fear or uncertainty to convince you that you do not belong," she said. "At GMercyU, you will find more than an education. You will find a community that recognizes your potential, strengthens your voice, and helps you become the scholar and leader you were meant to be.