President, West Los Angeles College
About the District
The Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) is one of the largest and most diverse community college districts in the United States, educating approximately 210,000 full- and part-time students annually across its nine colleges. LACCD serves a broad population including first-generation students, undocumented students, justice-impacted students, students with disabilities, former foster youth, active military and veterans, and other marginalized communities. The District maintains a strong commitment to equity and social justice and is a founding member of the California Community College Equity Leadership Alliance, advancing racial equity through structural, systemic reform.
About the College
Founded in 1969, West Los Angeles College has served the communities of Culver City and West Los Angeles for more than five decades, growing into a vibrant institution that provides both transfer and career-focused education. The College offers 18 vocational programs, 25 transfer pathways, and is one of only 15 California community colleges authorized to offer baccalaureate degrees—currently in Dental Hygiene and Avionics. WLAC provides associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs, awarding more than 600 degrees and certificates annually across 39 fields. The College is recognized for innovation, community partnership, and a mission rooted in student success, racial equity, social justice, and environmental responsibility.
Mission Statement
West Los Angeles College provides a transformative educational experience. The College fosters a diverse learning community committed to student success, racial equity, social justice, and environmental responsibility. Through quality instruction, programs, supportive services, community partnerships, and career development, WLAC encourages excellence and develops student leaders. A West education enriches students with the knowledge and skills needed to earn associate and baccalaureate degrees and certificates; to transfer; to build careers; and to pursue lifelong learning.
About the Role
The President of West Los Angeles College serves as the Chief Executive Officer, reporting to the Chancellor and participating as a member of the Chancellor's Cabinet. The President is responsible and directly accountable for all college operations, providing strategic leadership, advocacy, and vision during a period of dynamic change. The role requires a deep understanding of California community colleges and the communities WLAC serves, with a focus on equity-centered student success, enrollment strategies, and the expansion of baccalaureate education.
Leadership Competencies and Commitments
- Committed to Equity, Student Access, and Success
- Champions WLAC's commitment to racial equity, social justice, and student-centered learning.
- Creates a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment that supports diverse learners.
- Uses data to identify inequities in student outcomes and mobilizes the College to close achievement gaps.
- Understands the academic and basic needs of students, including financial hardship, food insecurity, and mental health challenges.
- Supports innovative program delivery, including online, hybrid, and dual enrollment pathways.
- Financial and Operational Accountability
- Demonstrates fiscal stewardship and ensures responsible resource allocation.
- Understands the Student-Centered Funding Formula and its implications for multi-college districts.
- Aligns enrollment management strategies with WLAC's recent growth trends.
- Provides direction for major initiatives including technology-enhanced instruction, student support infrastructure, and sustainability efforts.
- Communication, Teamwork, and Relationship Building
- Fosters a culture of collaboration, transparency, and shared governance.
- Builds strong, respectful relationships with faculty, staff, and collective bargaining groups.
- Communicates effectively across diverse campus constituencies and with external partners.
- Maintains visibility and relational leadership across campus and community settings.
- Leadership and Innovation
- Serves as a transformational leader capable of guiding WLAC into its next phase of academic growth and community impact.
- Understands emerging state and regional initiatives affecting community colleges.
- Employs data-informed decision-making and encourages innovative program development.
- Leads strategically to support WLAC's baccalaureate programs, career pathways, and enrollment initiatives.
- Champions key California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office (CCCCO) initiatives, including Guided Pathways, Vision for Success goals, student basic needs expansion, transfer pathway alignment, and workforce-focused innovations.
- External Engagement and Partnerships
- Strengthens partnerships with K-12 districts, four-year institutions, and workforce partners.
- Represents WLAC in civic, business, and community organizations.
- Supports philanthropic efforts aligned with the College mission and student success.
- Expands opportunities through grants and external funding leveraging WLAC's recent success in grant acquisition.
Requirements
- Master's degree or advanced degree from an accredited institution.
- One year of successful full-time experience in a senior leadership role in education, business, government, or industry.
- Demonstrated sensitivity to the diversity of the WLAC student, faculty, and staff population.
Qualifications
- Earned doctorate from an accredited institution.
- Five years or more of progressively responsible administrative experience, preferably within postsecondary institutions.
- Experience in instructional services, student services, and/or administrative services.
- Demonstrated success with equity-centered leadership, enrollment management, and community partnerships.
- Experience with participatory governance and collective bargaining environments.
Pay
Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The current salary range is $269,127.84 - $333,402.24 annually. An additional $522.15 monthly differential is provided for a doctoral degree.
Benefits
- 17 paid holidays annually.
- 24 days paid vacation annually, depending on length of district service.
- Medical, hospital, dental, and vision care plans.
- $50,000 group life insurance policy.
Health: After selection and prior to employment, a medical certificate indicating fitness to engage in administrative work is required for new employees, at the applicant's expense.