Dr. Robert “Henry” Hill is a distinguished leader in education, specializing in diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA). With more than two decades of experience in student and academic services, his career is a reflection of his unwavering commitment to fostering connections, building relationships, and promoting opportunities for all students.

At the heart of Dr. Hill’s life is his family. A devoted father to seven daughters and a proud grandfather to thirteen grandchildren, he embodies the values of support, unconditional love, and community. These values guide both his personal life and his professional ethos.

Dr. Hill’s career in higher education is marked by significant leadership roles, including serving as Vice President of Student Services at Everett Community College and Dean of Student Services at Glendale Community College. His journey began in 1995 as a long-term substitute teacher at the Santa Ana Unified School District, where he worked with kindergarten students. He transitioned to higher education in 1997 as a Graduate Assistant for the football program at Chapman University, where his passion for student success and academic leadership was sparked.

His extensive teaching experience spans from kindergarten classrooms to doctoral-level courses at prestigious institutions such as the University of Southern California, Chapman University, and California State University, Los Angeles. Dr. Hill's academic background is equally impressive, with a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California, as well as both a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Public Administration and Policy from the University of La Verne. His dissertation, titled "Hanging out on Crenshaw: Examining the Role of Racial Identity on the Academic Achievement of Black Students," explores the intersection of racial identity and academic success, reflecting his lifelong dedication to promoting inclusion and diversity in education.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Hill’s commitment to DEIA is evident in his consultancy work with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and other organizations across Southern California. His work focuses on creating equitable, inclusive environments in higher education and beyond, ensuring that all individuals have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve.

Dr. Hill is also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, and his commitment to service extends into his volunteer work with disabled veterans and those with PTSD through Equine Empowerment Therapy. His long-standing involvement with the Freedom Writers Organization—starting in 1998 when he recruited students to Long Beach City College—further underscores his dedication to empowering both educators and students.

A visionary leader, Dr. Hill believes in the transformative power of education as the great equalizer in society. His leadership philosophy, shaped by his experiences, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes resilience, community, and the power of education to shape a more inclusive and equitable future.

As a key advocate for student support services, Dr. Hill is ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, continuing to lead initiatives that pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive educational landscape.