Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D., has served as the superintendent/president of Allan Hancock College for 11 years.  With headcounts exceeding 20,000 students, Allan Hancock College is the largest regional provider of post-secondary education for Central Coast residents.  The college features a multitude of programs for students including a Veteran Success Center, a STEM Academic Success Center, a DREAM Center and an innovative Promise Program. The college’s signature program, The Hancock Promise, is a private/public initiative program that provides local high school students with two years of free tuition at Allan Hancock College.

A first-generation college student, Dr. Walthers attended Eastfield Community College in Mesquite, Texas, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s degree in educational administration from East Texas State University (Commerce), and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy from the University of Utah.

Dr. Walthers is an active participant in the Northern Santa Barbara County community, serving on the Chambers of Commerce for Santa Maria and Solvang, the board of the California Nature Art Museum, Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley, and with the Breakfast Rotary Club of Santa Maria. He is also on the statewide board for California Community College CEOs and is a board member for the California Community College Athletic Association.

Dr. Susan Salcido is the Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools, a role in which she oversees support for 20 school districts, 10 charter schools, and more than 70,000 students countywide. With a focus on fostering innovation, collaboration, and student success, Superintendent Salcido is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education and opportunities to thrive.