Loriann Negri

Pronouns: 

She/Her

Tile and Department:

Director, Learning & Academic Resource Center (LARC) and Center for Community Engagement (CCE)
LARC and CCE

How did you end up going into your current role or field and what do you enjoy most about the work you do?

My journey into learning centers and writing centers began right here at Sonoma State, where I earned both my B.A. and M.A. in English. After graduating, I taught in the English and University Studies departments at SSU and at Santa Rosa Junior College before taking time off to start a family. My love of working with peer educators and my connections with faculty drew me back to SSU. What I enjoy most about my work in both the LARC and CCE are those moments when I witness the direct impact on students, whether it's mentoring a peer educator, supporting a student one on one, or shaping programs that make learning more meaningful and accessible for all students.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the Sonoma State community?

I love the students. They all have unique stories and paths that have led them to SSU. I also really value the sense of community at SSU. The collaboration between students, faculty, and staff is intentional and creates a small, but mighty community!  

What do you find most fulfilling about working in higher education?

Definitely seeing the lasting impact of mentorship and learning in higher education. Many of the peer educators I’ve worked with through the LARC have gone on to make a difference in fields ranging from higher education and K–12 teaching to medicine, law, environmental work, and technology. Seeing our students evolve in academics and as professionals reminds me why I do this work. Watching their journeys unfold and knowing that their experiences at SSU helped shape their paths is incredibly rewarding. It’s an honor to play even a small role in helping students grow into confident, capable professionals. 

In what ways does your work make an impact on students, the campus or the broader campus community?

Through the LARC, I help create spaces where students can find academic support, connection, and confidence in their learning. Training and mentoring our peer educators has a ripple effect; they not only develop as leaders but also create supportive learning environments that empower their peers to succeed.
In the CCE, I'm working to connect students' experiential learning (service-learning, academic internships) with career pathways. And even more important, to support faculty in connecting students’ academic experiences with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to local communities. I truly believe that these experiences deepen students’ learning and benefit both the campus community beyond. And they showcase SSU’s role as a partner in regional growth and social responsibility.