Riverside college board picks Rivera-Lacey

Community college districts in Southern California often rely on internal promotions to fill executive roles, and the Riverside Community College District followed that pattern this week. The Board of Trustees officially selected Star Rivera-Lacey, Ph.D., to serve as the next chancellor for the district.

Rivera-Lacey will assume the top position on January 1, 2027. She currently holds the roles of deputy chancellor and provost within the district. Her appointment follows the retirement of Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D., who is concluding his tenure in higher education.

The selection process involved a national search conducted with the assistance of the Association of Community College Trustees. A Chancellor Search Committee reviewed candidates before recommending Rivera-Lacey to the Board. The committee members were thanked by the trustees for their participation in the review process.

Rivera-Lacey has spent more than 25 years working in the California community college system. She joined the Riverside Community College District in December 2025. Before that appointment, she served as the superintendent and president of the Palomar Community College District. In that role, she focused on fiscal stability, infrastructure updates, and instructional innovation.

Her professional background includes leadership positions at several institutions in the San Diego region. She has held roles at San Diego College of Continuing Education, San Diego City College, San Diego Miramar College, and San Diego Mesa College. Her work has covered instruction, student services, and organizational planning.

Rivera-Lacey is a first-generation college student. Her parents are immigrants from El Salvador. She began her academic career at MiraCosta College. She later earned a bachelor's degree in liberal studies from California State University, San Marcos. She holds a master's degree in education from San Diego State University, with an emphasis on multicultural competent counseling. She completed her doctorate in education at Claremont Graduate University.

Jose Alcala, the president of the RCCD Board of Trustees, commented on the decision. "Dr. Rivera-Lacey brings a strong combination of experience, vision, and a deep commitment to student success," Alcala said. He noted that her understanding of the state system and diverse communities positions her to lead the district. The Board intends to work with her to build on existing accomplishments and expand opportunities for students.

Rivera-Lacey accepted the role with a statement expressing gratitude for the Board's confidence. "I am honored by the Board of Trustees’ confidence in me and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the next chancellor of Riverside Community College District," she said. She stated that her focus will be on listening and strengthening collaboration among faculty, staff, and community partners.

Upon starting in January, Rivera-Lacey plans to visit the district's colleges and locations. She will host listening sessions with students, faculty, classified professionals, and administrators. These meetings are designed to gather input from the district community. The specific details and dates for these sessions have not yet been announced.

Rivera-Lacey has received several recognitions for her work in higher education. She is a UC Davis Wheelhouse Fellow and an Aspen Rising Presidential Fellow. She has served in leadership roles with the National Community College Hispanic Council. In 2025, California State Assembly District 76 named her Woman of the Year for her contributions to education and community advancement.