Open Forum:

  • Wednesday, November 13
  • 3-4 p.m.
  • Hinson Campus Center Conference Rooms A and B

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Dr. Tia Robinson-Cooper is a visionary leader in higher education with over two decades of executive experience in roles such as Chancellor, President, and Provost. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of community colleges, she believes in their ability to change lives one student at a time. Her leadership is characterized by strategic enrollment management, innovative workforce partnerships, and a results-driven approach that prioritizes student success and institutional growth. As an equity-minded leader, she is dedicated to empowering campus communities to critically examine and address policies and practices that perpetuate inequities, with a steadfast focus on achieving fair and just outcomes for all students.

Dr. Robinson-Cooper has a proven record of accomplishment driving significant institutional change. She has led initiatives that increased enrollment, retention, transfer, and completion rates by implementing equitable policies and student-centered strategies. Her tenure at various institutions has been marked by a dedication to removing barriers to education and promoting the social and economic mobility of students. Dr. Robinson-Cooper is known for her servant leadership style, which fosters collaboration, transparency, and a shared vision for advancing student outcomes and community engagement.

Dr. Robinson-Cooper's experience in fiscal stewardship and resource development has positioned her as a forward-thinking leader who understands the importance of financial sustainability in higher education. She has successfully managed multi-million-dollar budgets, secured significant philanthropic support, and developed long-range plans that align institutional growth with community needs. Her strategic leadership has consistently advanced institutional goals, ensuring that colleges under her leadership remain financially stable and capable of delivering high-quality education.

Originally from Chicago, Dr. Robinson-Cooper holds an Ed.D. in Counseling and Adult Higher Education and a B.S. in Speech Language Pathology from Northern Illinois University, an MBA and M.S. in Organizational Leadership from National Louis University, and an A.S. in Business Administration from Kishwaukee College.

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