Pablo Saldaña Soria

Pablo Saldaña is a doctoral student with a strong interdisciplinary foundation in higher education leadership, student success, and community engagement. He earned a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration & Policy from the University of California, Riverside, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Vocal Music Performance and Communication from Portland State University’s Urban Honors Program, with a minor in Marketing and Advertising.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Pablo brings over a decade of dynamic experience in student services, program management, community education, and grant administration within the California Community College system and higher education. Currently serving as Acting Program Manager for Community Education at Victor Valley College, he oversees partnerships, secures funding for student support, and expands access to lifelong learning opportunities.

Previously, Pablo held key leadership roles at Victor Valley College, including Interim Program Manager for STEM, Director of the MESA program, and Administrative Program Specialist in Adult Education. In these capacities, he managed multimillion-dollar grant-funded programs, developed student success initiatives for first-generation and underrepresented populations, and coordinated high-impact events, including a campus visit by astronaut José Hernández.

Earlier in his career, Pablo supported equity and access in roles across student equity programs, housing and residence life, and nonprofit arts education, including contributions to the GRAMMY Museum and The Recording Academy. Across each role, he has demonstrated a sustained commitment to culturally responsive outreach, intentional student support, and the creation of inclusive learning environments.

Pablo’s research and professional interests include the intersection of policy, access, and equity in higher education, particularly within Hispanic-Serving Institutions and community colleges. He is especially passionate about dismantling barriers for historically marginalized students and strengthening institutional pathways for academic and career advancement.