🚀 From Student to Higher Ed. Leader: Meet Dr. Scott Thayer of San Bernardino Valley College
We Asked 5 Questions…Here’s What He Said!
At the heart of the San Bernardino Community College District lies an empowering vision: to open doors of higher education and opportunity for everyone.
We recently sat down with Dr. Scott Thayer, Vice President of Student Services at San Bernardino Valley College, and posed 5 questions about his college experience and how he’s paying it forward to uplift fellow students.
1. Where did you grow up, and can you briefly tell us about your family?
I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, near the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. My grandmother worked as a cook at the University and used to rent rooms to students. I come from a multicultural background; my father is Black, and my mother is white. I grew up with my older brother and sister.
2. What made you decide to go to college?
My mother was a significant influence. She returned to college when my brother and I were young, even before we started school. She used to take us to her classes at the University, and the professors kindly allowed us to sit in without causing any disruptions. This early exposure to higher education inspired me. My mother pursued her education while raising three young children, and that motivated me to pursue my own goals.
3. If you could give advice to yourself when you were a college freshman, what would you say?
If I could offer advice to my college freshman self, I would say, “Take full advantage of all the resources, activities, and events that your college has to offer. Immerse yourself in the college experience because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create lasting experiences and friendships.”
4. During your college years, what was your favorite class subject, and were there any fun activities you enjoyed on campus?
I was a student-athlete, playing baseball and earning a scholarship after completing my Associate’s degree at a community college. In addition to baseball, I enjoyed studying psychology and theater. I found solace in the library, where I could study in a quiet, dedicated space — a routine that has benefited me throughout my educational journey.
5. What was your first job out of college, and what important things did you learn from it?
My first job after college was as a Crisis Intervention Specialist at an off-site facility, working with middle school special education students. This experience taught me the importance of not judging students solely based on their initial behavior. Sometimes, when individuals have experienced trauma, it takes time for them to process and work through it. What matters most is that they show up, and showing up is crucial if you want to make a positive impact on your own life or the lives of others.
Bonus Question: At San Bernardino Valley College, what accomplishment are you proudest of, and what did it teach you?
One of my proudest achievements at San Bernardino Valley College was when I served as President during the reopening after the COVID-19 pandemic. I had the privilege of working closely with faculty, staff, alumni, and the community to support our students and create a vibrant and inclusive environment. We accomplished several important things together, like starting a campus food pantry, developing a master plan for inclusive and equitable education, and setting up welcoming spaces for our diverse students.
In addition to my role at San Bernardino Valley College, I also teach at San Diego State University in a doctoral program that trains future leaders in community colleges. I’ve found it inspiring to work in the classroom with passionate and energetic students who are dedicated to making higher education more accessible to everyone. All of these experiences have taught me that every day offers opportunities to learn and grow.
