Academic Affairs
SYLVIA THOMAS
Associate Vice Chancellor for Instruction
As Associate Vice Chancellor for Instruction, Sylvia Thomas' responsibilities include providing leadership for the development, supervision and coordination of the District's educational programs as well as the implementation of appropriate articulation agreements. She makes recommendations and develops strategies related to strategic enrollment management for the district. Additionally, she reviews all contracts related to academic affairs, student services and planning. She prepares reports for the state Chancellor's office for the district's credit and non-credit programs and coordinates the preparation of the district's college catalog and schedule of classes.
Sylvia's involvement at the community college includes 19 years of both administrative and teaching experience. Prior to her current position, she served as Dean of Instruction at the Riverside City Campus, Dean of Instructional Support Services and Campus Dean at Moreno Valley Campus prior to and during the opening of that campus site. She holds tenure as a faculty member and served as Department Chair of Reading and Learning Resources while teaching the complete range of reading courses. Presently, Sylvia continues to teach at least one section during each of the primary terms.
She has extensive experience in the design, acquisition of grant funding and implementation of innovative programs that include outreach efforts to K-12 Districts that are aimed an increasing the college going rate. These include the nationally known, Passport to College model, providing a pathway to college for youngsters in 5 th grade, concurrent enrollment initiatives, and Middle College High School and Early College High School programs that engage high school students in early college experiences.
In addition to her district duties, Sylvia is currently the Special Assistant to the President at the Riverside City Campus where she is responsible for accreditation efforts and all matters related to strategic enrollment management.
Sylvia attended UCLA, earning a BS in Zoology, Fresno State College, earning a Standard Life Credential in Elementary Education and a Credential in Administration and Supervision. Her MA in Education is from Pepperdine University.