Local Hero: Dr. Alberto J. Román, Closing Achievement Gaps in Underserved Communities

Nominee Name: Dr. Alberto J. Román
Title: President of East Los Angeles College (ELAC)

About Dr. Alberto J. Román

For the last 24 years, Dr. Alberto J. Román has worked for educational institutions developing and advancing educational programs for underserved communities.

As an immigrant and first-generation college graduate his experience encompasses positions in the public school system that have ranged from a faculty member to director of human resources, and from assistant superintendent to college president. In the role of Vice Chancellor of Human Resources for the Los Angeles Community College District, one of the nation's largest and most diverse districts, he provided leadership and support to nine colleges that collectively served over 200,000 students.

As college president of ELAC, he has increased college access for underserved students and closed achievement gaps through rigorous academic programs and student support services. The college was recently awarded the prestigious state-wide John W. Rice Award for its outstanding work in advancing diversity and equity.