Dallas College News Update

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Dr. Pamela Luckett

Media Contact: NewsTeam@dallascollege.edu

For immediate release — Oct. 3, 2022

(DALLAS) — The Thomas Lakin Institute for Mentored Leadership has selected two Dallas College leaders into its professional academy for future chief executive officers at community colleges.

Dr. Pamela Luckett, Dallas College’s chief digital engagement officer, and Dr. Nikki Ceaser-Small, senior director of campus administration at Dallas College Cedar Valley Campus, will take part in the institute’s annual leadership gathering this week in Pittsburgh, where participants will interact with some of “the best minds in higher education,” consisting of current and former board members of the American Association of Community Colleges, community college CEOs and members of the Association of Community College Trustees.

“Having the opportunity to engage in learning with a cohort of individuals who have the same aspirations to flourish in higher education is such an honor,” said Dr. Ceaser-Small. “I am grateful for [Dallas College Cedar Valley Campus President] Dr. Joe Seabrooks and Dallas College for supporting me through various professional development opportunities. I am truly looking forward to a week full of higher learning.”

Dr. Luckett, who brings more than 25 years in academia and higher education technology leadership to Dallas College, called her selection “inspiring.”

Dr. Nikki Ceaser-Small

“I am humbled and deeply grateful to Dallas College and Lakin Institute for this amazing opportunity to participate in this mentored leadership program,” Dr. Luckett said. “As we collectively embark upon unprecedented opportunities to change the lives of our students at Dallas College, this experience will foster my commitment of continuing the legacy of transforming lives, strengthening the community and inspiring individuals to achieve academic excellence.”

Both leaders say this opportunity helps them to broaden their network base and prepare them for future endeavors.

The Lakin Institute, sponsored by the Presidents’ Round Table of African American CEOs of Community Colleges, is a seminal experience that prepares participants for executive leadership. It is named in the memory of Dr. Thomas Lakin, the former chancellor of Ventura County (California) Community College District.

The institute also prepares participants for mentorships and other opportunities to build their careers and their communities.

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