This edition of the “What the CV-HEC is Happening” Blog features Dr. Kristin Clark, chancellor-emeritus of the West Hills Community College District, who in March came out of short-lived  retirement to  join the CVHEC team as dual enrollment lead, announced in our March issue by Dr. Benjamín Durán, CVHEC executive director. Here Dr. Clark provides some insight into this bold move to throw down the retirement mantle and resume her “commitment to higher education, particularly in support of those who have been marginalized and underserved.” For more information about partnering with CVHEC’s dual enrollment team, contact us at CVHECinfo@mail.fresnostate.edu.  (CVHEC blog submissions are welcome for consideration: Tom Uribes, cvheccommunications@mail.fresnostate.edu).

 Retired, but not expired: a higher ed encore

BY DR. KRISTIN CLARK

CVHEC Dual Enrollment Lead

Chancellor-emeritus, West Hills Community College District

In August 2024, after 30 years in higher education, I made the difficult decision to retire so I could focus on traveling, spending more time with family and doing things I love — like flying and gardening. Some people said I was “too young to retire,” and although I retired earlier than most, my passion for education — and my belief that it is the gateway to freedom — will never wane.

My career has been driven by a deep commitment to expanding access to education, supporting student success and promoting economic opportunity in my community. Even in retirement, I was certain I would remain engaged in this important work in a meaningful way.

After a two-month adventure across Switzerland, France, Portugal and Spain with my husband, I’m eager to re-engage in the field I love. My commitment to higher education, particularly in support of those who have been marginalized and underserved, remains unwavering. I’ve always believed that education is the key to personal freedom — it gives people the power to shape their own futures rather than having circumstances dictate them.

More broadly, education is the cornerstone of our democracy — it empowers

individuals, strengthens communities and fuels economic mobility. As a first-generation college graduate who took a non-traditional path through education and my career, I understand first-hand both the transformative power of learning and the barriers many students face in achieving their goals.

The Central Valley’s unique challenges and strengths

In the Central Valley, these challenges are especially pronounced. Many students face financial insecurity, limited access to educational opportunities, family responsibilities and even basic logistical barriers like transportation. Just as I was fortunate to have mentors who guided and encouraged me, I believe we share a responsibility to ensure that every student has the support, resources and motivation they need to succeed.

One of the greatest strengths of the Central Valley’s higher education landscape is its collaborative leadership. The region’s college and university CEOs are some of the most innovative and student-centered leaders in the country. Over the past few months, I’ve missed the dynamic exchanges and strategic problem-solving that happen when visionary leaders come together to drive student success.

As a consortium, we’ve been laser-focused on student-centered strategies that lead to degree completion and upward economic mobility — goals that remain as critical as ever. And I still want to be involved.

The power of collaboration

In today’s increasingly complex and politically charged environment, higher education leaders face immense challenges in balancing a myriad of priorities while keeping students at the center.

That’s why collaboration is more important than ever. Organizations like the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) play a vital role in supporting institutional leaders by providing research, resources, and a collaborative space to drive systemic change.

I believe that by working together, we can push the envelope to pursue bold and innovative initiatives that remove barriers for students, enhance economic development, and strengthen our workforce. I want to be part of innovative initiatives that produce real, measurable outcomes.

Taking action: expanding and supporting dual enrollment

One of my first projects in this new chapter is helping expand and support dual enrollment — a proven tool for improving college access and success.  Research shows that dual enrollment increases college participation and success, and it provides students with the confidence and momentum to continue their education beyond high school.

With that in mind, I’m excited to join CVHEC as a core team member and work alongside Elaine Cash, CVHEC members, K-12 partners and other education leaders to develop a dual enrollment playbook. This resource will highlight best practices and provide much-needed guidance for our partners, helping to streamline pathways, address equity gaps and create more opportunities for students to get a head start on their college journey.

If you have ideas for this playbook, please reach out. Elaine and I are listening.

Looking ahead

The challenges ahead are significant, and as a recently retired administrator, I understand the competing demands and pressures that today’s higher education leaders face. That’s why I’m committed to playing a supporting role in regional projects — offering my experience, passion and insight to help our institutions and leaders navigate these challenges and create lasting change.

I care deeply about our region and believe that through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to student success, we can create a future where every learner can achieve their dreams.

I’m excited for what’s ahead and honored to be part of this work. Most of all, I’m thrilled to continue working with some of my favorite colleagues, Central Valley leaders, who share my passion for education and are dedicated to making a difference.

Let’s get to work! I hope to see many of you at the upcoming Higher Education Summit as well!