Veronica R. Tapia

Veronica Tapia is the Director and Founder of Advise NC at UNCW (formerly UNCW College Advising Corps) and a Co-Founder of the statewide Advise NC program, which serves over 80 counties across North Carolina with more than 140 Next Step Advisers in underserved high schools. At UNCW, she leads a team of six Next Step Advisers along with a program coordinator dedicated to expanding opportunity for students in eastern North Carolina, helping them navigate post-secondary pathways and achieve their full potential.
As a first-generation college graduate and the daughter of an immigrant, Veronica’s commitment to access and equity is deeply personal. Her career has been devoted to supporting students from underserved communities, beginning as an adviser herself after completing her undergrad. She is passionate about creating equitable opportunities for all students to pursue their dreams.
Beyond her professional work, Veronica is a certified yoga teacher with 500 hours of training completed in Thailand and India. She loves living by the beach, spending time outdoors with her family, and embracing wellness practices that keep her grounded. Veronica is honored to lead a team of young changemakers who are making the world a better place.

Education

M.Ed Student Affairs in Higher Education, Texas State University
B.A. Psychology, NC State University
B.A. Spanish Language and Literature, NC State University

Honors & Awards

LatinxEd Fellow- 2022 Cohort
James F. Merritt Million Dollar Club 2024- UNCW