Zavala Joins Jumbos as Civic Engagement Administrator for Athletics

MEDFORD, MA (August 27, 2026) - Emma Zavala has joined the Tufts University athletics department as the new Civic Engagement Administrator for Athletics.

Zavala comes to Tufts after working a year as the Health and Wellness Programming Intern at Harvard University. There she designed, planned, and administered the Health and Wellness programming for Harvard's community outreach organization including clubs, weekly classes, workshops, and events aligned with community needs.

At Tufts, partnering with the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life, Zavala will work on strengthening civic life for student-athletesc by  creating opportunities for connection and engagement. She will also work on continuing to build and expand the Civic Life Ambassadors program, a year-long leadership and civic engagement opportunity designed for Tufts student-athletes who are passionate about public service, community engagement, and translating leadership skills developed through athletics into meaningful civic action.

Zavala graduated magna cum laude from the University of San Diego in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology. She also earned a Master's degree in Education, Policy and Analysis from Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

She was a four-year standout at coxswain at the University of San Diego as an undergraduate, as she was named as the 2024 West Coast Conference (WCC) Co-Coxswain of the Year as well as 2024 WCC First Team. Zavala was a 2024 West Coast Conference All-Academic Team honoree, while also earning the 2024 USD Virginia Stehly Award for Inspiration through Attitude and Actions. She spent a year as the high school team rowing coach for Community Rowing San Diego (2024-25).

"We are excited to welcome Emma to Tufts," said Deputy Athletics Director Alexis Mastronardi. "She brings with her a commitment to community engagement and a passion for civic impact. As a former Division I student-athlete, Emma was a decorated captain and coxswain, known for her commitment, dedication and leadership. I am confident that Emma will excel in her ability to pair her passion for civic engagement and her commitment to the student-athlete experience, making for a seamless transition into this critical role for the Jumbos." 

Zavala replaces Frank Roche at Tufts, who left to become the head football coach at Belmont Hill School.

"I'm so excited to be joining such an incredible program and working with these highly-motivated athletes," Zavala said.