Photo credit: www.higheredjobs.com
In an insightful interview with Andrew Hibel, Eloy Oakley, the chancellor of the California Community College System, shared his experiences and perspectives on leading one of the largest systems of higher education in the United States. Oakley reflected on his personal journey and the significant role community colleges play in today’s educational landscape, especially for adult learners.
Andrew Hibel, HigherEdJobs: Chancellor Oakley, your responsibilities are vast and varied. Can you elaborate on your key tasks and initiatives as you head the California Community College System?
Eloy Oakley, Chancellor, California Community College System: My primary responsibilities center on advocating for our 2.1 million students and the colleges that serve them. My priorities are aligned with the Vision for Success put forth by the Board of Governors, which emphasizes equitable outcomes for students.
Hibel: As a first-generation college student who previously attended a community college, how have your personal experiences influenced your leadership style since you became the first Latino chancellor in December 2016?
Oakley: My personal journey through the California Community Colleges has profoundly shaped my approach. After serving in the U.S. Army, I returned to California, juggling work and family responsibilities. Golden West College was pivotal in my education, allowing me to transfer to UC Irvine. I didn’t initially foresee attending college, nor did I have a support system to guide me through higher education. The backing I received from Golden West College is something I draw from daily in my role.
Hibel: You aim to establish California’s first fully online community college by early 2019. Given that the existing system comprises 114 colleges, what drives this initiative for a 115th college?
Oakley: Over 2.5 million Californians in the workforce lack post-secondary credentials, making them particularly vulnerable to job displacement from automation and artificial intelligence advancements. The new online college will be designed to be tech-centric and competency-based, specifically tailored for adult learners. It will focus on micro-credentials to facilitate workforce upskilling.
Hibel: How does the target demographic for this entirely online college differ from those served by the traditional 114 colleges?
Oakley: The individuals we aim to serve through the online college are not currently utilizing our existing colleges due to various barriers. They require personalized and modular educational pathways that accommodate their unique lifestyle constraints. This demographic is essential for our economy, and the Online College will enable us to reach them more effectively than we have before.
Hibel: What does the California Community College System hope to achieve with this new addition, and what are the anticipated benefits?
Oakley: Our system anticipates scaling high-quality upskilling opportunities for the California workforce, innovating educational strategies for adult learners, offering a public and reliable alternative to for-profit institutions that may exploit these learners, and ultimately enhancing California’s economic future.
Hibel: The term “stranded worker” often arises when discussing the need for alternative programs to foster skill development. Can you clarify what “stranded worker” means and how the online community college can assist this group?
Oakley: A “stranded worker” is someone without a post-secondary credential, leading to limited economic mobility, especially as job prospects increasingly require some form of credential. This group is continually losing ground in a rapidly changing economy due to their lack of formal education and training.
Hibel: There are misconceptions about community colleges, such as the suggestion from former President Trump to refer to them as “vocational or technical” schools. What arguments can help clarify their essential role?
Oakley: Community colleges represent the most accessible, flexible, and affordable form of higher education available to many Americans. They cater to a broad spectrum of students, providing valuable training and education. Unlike elite institutions, community colleges serve every community and type of individual, making them an invaluable asset.
Hibel: With a diverse and successful career in education, what motivates you to continue your work in academia?
Oakley: My passion for academia is fueled by the tremendous opportunity our colleges offer to students, especially those with great potential who hail from challenging backgrounds. Higher education is a powerful equalizer, and I am committed to expanding access for a broader demographic of Americans.
Source
www.higheredjobs.com