Le'Asia Gaskin, M.A.
Le’Asia Gaskin, M.A., is the Assistant Director of Student Success and Belonging at Fairfield University, where she leads initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across campus. With a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies from Southern Connecticut State University and a background in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Le’Asia is deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces that empower students from underrepresented communities. Her work focuses on fostering cultural awareness, allyship, and equitable opportunities for students to thrive academically and personally.
Throughout her career, Le’Asia has held roles that center on advocacy, program management, and community engagement. She has served as a Campus Advocate and Crisis Response Advocate at Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury, an AmeriCorps member at Southwest Community Health Center, and a Parent Program Supervisor at the University of Connecticut. At Fairfield University, she oversees Fairfield United, a coalition of student-led cultural and identity-based affinity groups, guiding leadership development, social justice initiatives, and Heritage Month programming. She also draws on her personal experiences and family history of resilience to inform her commitment to equity and social justice.
In addition to her professional work, Le’Asia is an entrepreneur and co-founder of a luxury decor and catering company, offering bespoke services for family celebrations and home gatherings. She has also contributed to academic discourse, presenting her research on sexual violence against women of color, based on her master’s thesis “Dear God, Why Me? Tug of War: Family vs. Rape,” at the National Women’s Studies Association Conference in Puerto Rico. Looking ahead, she plans to complete her Doctor of Education (EdD) at Fairfield University, furthering her expertise in student affairs, multicultural education, and community leadership.
• Southern Connecticut State University - MA
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received comes from the incredible people who have shaped my life and guided my journey. My late grandmother, Hazel Ford, was a constant example of perseverance, determination, and resilience. From a young age, she faced adversity with unwavering strength and served as a pillar for our family, showing me what true dedication and hard work can achieve.
My mother, Lekeysha Joyner-Gaskin, has also been an incredible support system, demonstrating how passion, commitment, and love can carry you through any challenge. Her example has taught me the importance of balancing determination with empathy and care.
Finally, Dr. Tricia Lynn, who has been both a mentor and the department chair at SCSU, opened doors for me and helped me recognize the potential I had to build a meaningful and successful career. Her guidance reinforced the value of mentorship and the impact of having advocates who believe in you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to confidently take up space and overcome imposter syndrome. Remember that you deserve to be in leadership roles and that your voice, ideas, and contributions are valuable. Don’t be afraid to step forward, own your expertise, and claim your place in your field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center around family, community, and service. I take great joy in nurturing and supporting families, and I am actively involved in my church in Bridgeport, CT—which is approaching its 50th anniversary—where I serve as a social justice leader, praise and worship leader, and worship dance leader.
Outside of work, I cherish quality time with my two dogs and enjoy traveling to explore new cultures. I also have a deep passion for music, podcasts, and reading, which help me stay inspired and engaged. On a more personal note, I love expressing my creativity and style through fashion, embracing my signature “pink and Barbie” aesthetic, and indulging in self-care like getting my nails done.
Locations
Fairfield University
Waterbury, CT 06705