Mariel Cano
Assistant Director of Student Experience
![Mariel Cano](/sites/default/files/styles/1_1_720x720/public/2023-01/Mariel-Cano.jpg?h=285acf25&itok=W7E5Gkcm)
With a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in sociology, Mariel has experience in student affairs and student engagement through mentorship, intervention, research and educational programs. Mariel collaborated with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) for five years with several programs designed to increase student participation. Her background has allowed her to participate in the development of programs concentrating in student leadership. By implementing strategies that support undergraduate and graduate students, Mariel is committed to provide her students with the necessary tools to succeed in higher education. Mariel’s research relies on inclusion, diversity and equity to be key factors to the pillars of current and modern leadership standards. Her thesis dissertation “Masculinity In The Kitchen: Gender Performance In The Culinary Arts Industry” reflects on it. Mariel joined the Rice Business Office of Academic Programs and Student Experience in December 2022. She feels like every day she arrives with a smile, and gets to go back home with a bigger smile from spending time with her students, collaborators and team!
What is your favorite quote and why?
“There are shortcuts to happiness and dancing is one of them.” Author unknown. I simply believe that life’s too short and we should admire even the tiniest things we get to experience every day to make it a joyful day.
What are you currently listening to?
Any Spanish pop songs (Reik, Morat and Aitana) are currently on my playlist. I enjoy music from Celine Dion, The Beatles, Cat Stevens and anything that gets me up and dancing!
What are you reading?
I recently finished the novel In Five Years by Rebecca Serle, and I’m currently reading Spare by Prince Harry.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Coffee ice-cream and brownies, my grandma’s apple pie, my mom’s enchiladas verdes and her tuna pie. You can tell I can always start a meal with dessert first – life’s too short not to enjoy a good dessert!