Gerardo Roa elected UASD Vicerrector de Extensión for 2026-2030

Gerardo Roa Ogando has been elected Vicerrector de Extensión of the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD) for the 2026-2030 term, defeating Professor Lenchy Vargas in a second round runoff. Both local outlets Hoy and El Día reported the outcome as a "contundente victoria" (overwhelming victory) for Roa, who secured strong support from the university community. Source: hoydo Source: eldiado

The election

Roa, an intellectual, essayist, and former dean of the Faculty of Humanities, ran on a platform emphasizing innovation, social engagement, and strengthening the role of extension as a strategic pillar of the university. Vargas, who had sought the position for the fifth consecutive time, was defeated. Source: hoydo Source: eldiado

Proposals

Key elements of Roa's program include:

• Territorialization of extension programs Source: hoydo
• Strengthening continuing education Source: eldiado
• Promoting entrepreneurship, social innovation, and scientific/cultural dissemination Source: hoydo
• Internationalization of extension and university volunteer initiatives Source: eldiado
• Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals Source: hoydo

Reaction

In his victory message, Roa stated that the win "pertenece a toda la familia universitaria que creyó en una propuesta de unidad, trabajo y transformación" and pledged to lead an inclusive, transparent, and participatory administration. Source: eldiado The election marks a new chapter for UASD's extension office, with Roa aiming to make it a modern, dynamic link between the university and Dominican society. Source: hoydo