Rate My Professor Dasha Joseph Fernandez

Dasha Joseph Fernandez serves as Tautiaki Piki and Deputy Warden at the University of Otago. In 2023, she was appointed Deputy Warden at 192 Castle College following the departure of Deputy Wardens Jenna Lockhart and Brian Satake. Her appointment occurred just in time for semester two, where she worked alongside Assistant Warden Mhairi Elliot, who was seconded to the college, and Warden Luke Morrison. Together, they supported residents in embracing new experiences and challenges, fostering a supportive environment with a high academic focus. The college participated in intercollege events including Waka Ama, kī-o-rahi, and renegade hockey, and hosted events such as HOPs, the College Ball, and floor wars.

A similar staffing transition occurred at Cumberland College, where Dasha Joseph Fernandez was appointed Deputy Warden after the same departures. She collaborated with the same team to build community through events like sports day, foam party, pre-Toga party, Midwinter Christmas Dinner, and College Ball. The college achieved successes in intercollege competitions, including Women’s Netball for the fifth year, Cricket festival, and mixed doubles pool, while emphasizing academic excellence and resident involvement. In September 2022, Dasha Joseph Fernandez graduated from the University of Otago's Mental Health First Aid course. She noted that while she had ideas about responding to mental health emergencies, the training clarified what she should do instead of what she might do.