La'Toya Cesar

Bio

Dr. La’Toya Cesar is a higher education leader and North Carolina native with 16+ years of experience in designing and overseeing student success programs. Her expertise includes student advocacy, student development, and federal grant and program management. Dr. Cesar has significant experience working with federal grant programs, demonstrating a commitment to expanding access and support for first-generation students. Her contributions to higher education include presentations at conferences and publications focused on higher education, first-generation student outcomes, and program efficacy. 

Beyond her work in higher education, she is actively engaged in her community. She serves on the NCSU First In the Pack Advisory Committee, President of the Smithfield Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.,  Vice-President of her local Parent Teacher Association (PTA), and regularly volunteers with local youth development programs. Her previous role as executive board secretary of NC TRIO further demonstrates her commitment to leadership and service in various spheres. Dr. Cesar was also honored with the 2025 SAEOPP TRIO Achiever Award for her contributions.

La’Toya holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Fayetteville State University, a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Saint Augustine’s University. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is a devoted wife and mother who cherishes family time, spa days, and travel.