Forum: April 7, 1:30-3 p.m.
Dr. Sean C. Hancock
Dr. Sean C. Hancock is an experienced community college leader with more than twenty-five years of service in higher education administration, instruction, and student support. Throughout his career, he has been guided by a commitment to student-centered leadership, equity in educational opportunity, and strong partnerships between colleges and the communities they serve.
Dr. Hancock currently serves as President of Cerro Coso Community College in the Kern Community College District, where he leads a multi-campus institution serving a diverse region across the Eastern Sierra and the Mojave Desert. As President, he oversees all aspects of the college’s operations, including instruction, student services, fiscal management, strategic planning, accreditation, facilities, and community engagement.
During his tenure, Dr. Hancock has led initiatives that strengthened student success and expanded access, advanced workforce pathways, and deepened partnerships with K–12 districts, industry, and community organizations. Under his leadership, Cerro Coso significantly expanded early college opportunities, increasing dual and concurrent enrollment participation, as well as the launching of a middle college high school. The college also strengthened its focus on equitable student outcomes, earning statewide recognition as a Champion for Excelling in Equitable Course Placement for Black Students in English and Mathematics.
Dr. Hancock has also advanced workforce initiatives that support regional economic development. In collaboration with leaders from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, Edwards Air Force Base, and Mojave Air and Space Port, participated in the formation of a regional defense and aerospace workforce coalition. This work contributed to the development of new academic programs and the advancement of a baccalaureate degree in Cyber Security Technology aligned with high-demand careers.
He has also prioritized institutional culture and governance, leading the revision and implementation of the college’s participatory governance model to strengthen collaboration, transparency, and shared responsibility across campus constituencies.
Prior to becoming president, Dr. Hancock served as Vice Chancellor for Student and Institutional Success at the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, where he provided districtwide leadership for student services, academic planning, institutional research, workforce development, and strategic initiatives. Earlier in his career, he served as Vice President of Instruction and Student Services at Palo Verde College.
Dr. Hancock holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from the University of the Pacific, an MBA from TUI University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Organizational Development from Fresno Pacific University. A proud California community college alumnus, he also holds an Associate of Arts degree from College of the Sequoias. Dr. Hancock is honored to be a Fellow of the UC Davis Wheelhouse CEO Institute and an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow.
Dr. Hancock’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief that strong relationships and shared purpose are essential to institutional success. Recognizing the profound impact education has had on his own life, he has dedicated his career to creating inclusive environments where students and employees feel supported, valued, and empowered—and to changing lives through the power of education.