University Executive Team

Dr. Umesh C. Varma is not only a graduate of our DIA program but also teaches courses in cybersecurity programs at University of Fairfax. Dr. Varma holds 7 certificates and degrees, including: Doctorate of Information Assurance & Graduate Certificate Cybersecurity Best Practices from University of Fairfax, MS Computer Science, BS Business Administration, BSc General Sciences, Diploma/Advanced Diploma in Export Management, and a Certificate in Transport Management. Dr. Varma has been teaching at the university level for over 30 years in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses and specialty areas of interest and research include: information systems security, systems development, data management, virtualization, block chain, machine learning, cryptocurrency, and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Sajad Khorsandroo is a computer scientist specializing in the field of cybersecurity. With a Ph.D. in computer science, Dr. Khorsandroo has dedicated his career to conducting impactful research in this domain. His research efforts have garnered support from both federal and state funding agencies, as well as industry partners, attesting to the significance and relevance of his work. Beyond his research and academic pursuits, Dr. Khorsandroo possesses over 12 years of experience in higher education pedagogy. He has played an active role in the development of multiple courses and certificates in the field of cyber security, demonstrating his commitment to equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills. Throughout his career, he has taught at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, imparting his expertise and passion for the subject matter to aspiring cyber security professionals. Dr. Khorsandroo’s involvement in academia extends to mentoring and advising students. He has provided guidance to both undergraduate and graduate students, supporting them in their educational journey. Additionally, he has served on numerous thesis and dissertation committees, contributing to the growth and development of future scholars in the field.

Mariko Miglionico joined University of Fairfax in 2019. She is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University with a B.S Degree in Rehabilitation Services and has 16 years’ experience as a financial planning advisor. Prior to joining University of Fairfax, she worked at Miller-Motte Technical College as the Financial Services Director with the Roanoke, VA Campus. Working in higher education has been rewarding for Mariko as it provides her with the opportunity to help others grow and make an impact on the world. Outside of University of Fairfax, Mariko spends her free time with her family traveling and creating other fun memories.

Patricia Mitchem joined the University of Fairfax in 2020 after 14 years working for American National University. She began her career as an Admissions Representative, but has also served roles in financial planning. She is a graduate of Bluefield State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and Accounting. She resides in Virginia in a small town in the Appalachian mountains. She enjoys living in the country, reading, and spending time with family.

Smriti Joshi is an accomplished educator and academic professional with over five years of undergraduate teaching experience in English, Business Administration, and Information Technology. She currently serves as a Full-Time Academic Advisor and Instructor at the University of Fairfax, where she supports students in planning their academic paths while delivering engaging, interdisciplinary instruction. Holding multiple advanced degrees, including a Master’s in English, an MBA in General and IT, a Master’s in Information Technology, and a Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication. She integrates language, technology, and business strategy into her teaching to enhance student learning. Fluent in English and French, Ms. Joshi is passionate about mentoring diverse learners and is known for her strong, goal-driven work ethic, once she commits to a goal, she pursues it with dedication until it is fully achieved.

Dr. Monica Bansal has global teaching experience of over ten years in higher education; teaching and mentoring to undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Bansal has her PhD degree in Business Administration, MBA in finance and is currently pursuing a DBA from University of Fairfax. She is an international publisher and has published various books, book chapters and articles in corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship, and accounting. She has also presented papers at various symposiums at international level and is a reviewer of Global Journal of Accounting and Finance where she supervises the research work of other publishers. She also enjoys volunteering in community services and working in groups where she gets a chance to interact with people of different backgrounds and cultures.

At the University of Fairfax, she advises the students in choosing the correct program which will assist them in their career growth. Having a passion in academia and years of experience in helping students overcoming the challenges in choosing the correct courses, Dr. Bansal wants to serve as an academician and counsellor to help students, professionals and individuals overcome their fear of going back to school and honing their professional skills.