‘Experiencing firsthand the challenges of navigating college as a first-generation student

inspired her to dedicate her career to expanding access and opportunities for all learners’

National University’s Sandra Franco Armstrong, senior director of campus operations, has assumed the institution’s representative seat on the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) board.

She succeeds Eddie Cunha who moved to Lemoore College as its admissions director, ending his term on the CVHEC board representing NU. At the board’s December meeting, Armstrong was welcomed and seated. 

Armstrong brings over 19 years of experience in higher education at National University. 

A proud first-generation college graduate, she discovered her passion for education early on while supporting Spanish Speaking students learning English in a community where many faced barriers to completing high school or pursuing college. 

Experiencing firsthand the challenges of navigating college as a first-generation studentinspired her to dedicate her career to expanding access and opportunities for all learners. Beginning her professional journey as an admissions advisor to her current role as the senior director of campus operation, Armstrong has remained grounded in a student-centered mindset.