Tania Arana, PhD
Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and Admissions
Associate Professor, Behavioral Neuroscience
Office Phone: (916) 686-7300 ext. 7351
Fax: (916) 686-7310
Tania.Arana@cnsu.edu
Education
- Ph.D. Experimental Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience – University of Ottawa
About
Dr. Tania Arana is an experienced medical education administrator and educator with more than 18 years of experience in academic medicine and medical education. Since 2015, she has served in leadership roles in student affairs and admissions, developing and overseeing programs and services that support medical students throughout their academic journey. Her areas of expertise include admissions, student wellness, academic counseling, career advising, professionalism, student support services, and accreditation.
Throughout her career, Dr. Arana has provided leadership in both established and developing medical schools, helping to create student-centered programs, policies, and services that promote student success, well-being, and professional growth. She has led initiatives in admissions operations, student support and retention, academic and career advising, wellness programming, student conduct, and student engagement. She has also played key roles in accreditation efforts and institutional strategic planning related to medical student education.
Dr. Arana is passionate about mentoring students and fostering supportive learning environments where students can thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and commitment to student-centered services.
Research
Dr. Arana's research background is in behavioral neuroscience, with a focus on the effects of stress on depression- and anxiety-related behaviors. Her work has also contributed to collaborative research examining genetic and epigenetic factors associated with neuropsychiatric disorders.
