Victoria Herman

Pet lover and generally positive person Victoria Herman is a Senior Human Resources Representative in the Office of the Dean at the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. Before joining MIT, Victoria gained diverse experience across the airline, security, and financial services industries. They assisted travelers at an airline, enforced security protocols with the Transportation Security Administration, and provided administrative support at a financial firm. Now in HR, they focus on problem-solving, supporting faculty and staff, and ensuring smooth processes.

Victoria earned a Human Resource Management Certificate from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston.

Describe your roles and responsibilities. 

I manage a wide range of HR responsibilities for SHASS, including approving transactions and addressing general HR inquiries. I coordinate faculty promotions, tenure reviews, and instructional staff cases to ensure smooth processes. Additionally, I oversee faculty leave records, support recruitment and onboarding efforts, and administer recognition programs such as the SHASS Infinite Mile Award and Employee Appreciation Program. Most importantly, I make sure the Dean’s Office staff is well fed on Thursdays!

How long have you worked at MIT? 

I just came up on two years!

What’s the best thing about your job? 

The best thing about my job is the opportunity to help people every day. Anyway, I can make someone’s day a little easier, by being a resource for others. I enjoy finding creative solutions to challenges that arise. It’s rewarding to know that my work contributes to a positive and supportive environment.

What advice would you offer someone interested in doing what you do?

My biggest advice is to keep an open mind about your career path. You never know where your experiences will lead you. I never imagined I’d end up in HR, but each step in my journey—whether it was working at an airline, TSA, or a financial firm—helped me develop skills that I now use every day.

HR is all about problem-solving and helping people, so it’s important to stay adaptable and approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. No two days are the same, and being open to learning, growing, and thinking creatively will help you navigate any situation that comes your way.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. One of my favorite activities is taking my two rescue beagles, Lucas and Benji, to the dog park, with my sister and her beagle-bulldog mix, Cooper. I also have a passion for baking, discovering new restaurants, and never say no to a good nap!