Biography
Oana (pronounced Wa-nah) Chirila-Najjar serves as Assistant Director for the Immigration Services for Students and Scholars.
Mrs. Najjar’s educational background is diverse. She earned: i) an M.S. degree from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, which consistently ranks among the top 50 Best Universities in the world, ii) an M.S. degree of Medical Bioengineering from University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, Romania, and iii) a Bachelor degree of Medical Bioengineering from University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, Romania. To enrich her expertise in higher education and leadership issues, Oana obtained, in 2013, a Graduate Certificate in Academic Advising from Kansas State University.
Oana joined the University of Mississippi in 2012, as an academic counselor for the School of Engineering – Dean’s Office. Later, she was promoted to Manager of Transfer Equivalency and Data Analyst.
Since July 2021, Oana has been assisting international scholars, UM staff and faculty members with federal regulatory compliance and advisory services related to employment and relocation to the USA. She serves as Designated School Official (DSO) with the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) with the Department of State. She is an advocate for the university international community and assists with educational and social programs to facilitate cultural adjustment to the UM campus life. She regularly participates in NAFSA workshops and conferences and is actively involved in immigration- centered forums and seminars.
Education
M.S. Health Care Administration, Catholic University of Leuven Kortrijk (2003)