Office of the President

Dr. Ashanti Hands is the 7th president of San Diego Mesa College. She is a student-centered practitioner and disruptor of the status quo with a deep commitment to equity, excellence, inclusion and belonging. Her Why is rooted in love, joy, and creating conditions that matter for students to succeed. Prior to her presidency, Dr. Hands served as the Dean of Student Affairs and Vice President of Student Services at San Diego Mesa College, following a tenure as the Dean of Student Affairs at the University of California, San Diego. Dr. Hands holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in community colleges, as well as a Master of Arts in Education/Multicultural Counseling from San Diego State University. She also earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a Minor in Ethnic Studies from the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. Hands has an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments that empower students from diverse backgrounds to thrive. Central to her leadership philosophy is the belief that every student possesses inherent worthiness and potential, deserving of opportunities to excel academically and personally. Dr. Hands is guided by a genuine sense of empathy, compassion, and a profound dedication to serving the needs of the student community.