Sidmore College's board of trustees

During a recent candidates' forum at College of the Canyons, eight contenders for the Santa Clarita Community College District board highlighted the qualities they seek in a new CEO, emphasizing transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a strong connection with the college community. Discussions centered on the importance of having a president who prioritizes student needs and embraces modernization, contrasting views on whether the college should operate like a business. Meanwhile, reflections on the college presidency reveal a concerning trend of short tenures, particularly for women and people of color, attributed to the pressures surrounding contentious societal issues. Former college leaders have voiced their concerns over the expanded and often conflicting expectations placed on presidents today. As higher education faces a complex landscape of challenges, the need for effective leadership that fosters open dialogue and community engagement has never been clearer. This dialogue is echoed in local college theatrical productions exploring themes of technology and human experience, showcasing the intersection of education and contemporary societal issues.