Aaron Ray is an equity-driven higher education leader committed to building access, fostering community, and creating success pathways for underrepresented and first-generation college students.
He currently serves as the Director of Opportunity Programs at Hamilton College, where he develops and leads inclusive initiatives, mentors students with intention, and works to transform institutional systems to better support student success.
With over a decade of experience in student development, program design, grant writing, and holistic advising, Ray is known for cultivating spaces where students are not only supported—but truly seen and celebrated. He also serves as President of the Higher Education Opportunity Program Professional Organization (HEOPPO), leading statewide efforts to strengthen professional development, share best practices, and elevate the collective impact of opportunity programs across New York.
Ray is the co-host of Opportunity on the Mic, a podcast that amplifies student voices, builds community, and highlights the transformative power of education. Whether through his campus-based leadership, statewide advocacy, or storytelling work, Ray is deeply committed to equity, empathy, and the belief that education should be a launchpad—not a barrier—for all students.
Areas of Expertise: First-generation college student, Mentoring, Student success