Released: September 30, 2024
Santa Fe Community College has selected Laurie Saylor, as the new Dean of the School of Trades, Advanced Technologies, and Sustainability and the School of Business, Professional Studies and Education. Saylor, who began her role on September 30, previously served as the Associate Dean and most recently held the position of Interim Dean of both of those Schools.
“SFCC is excited to continue working with Laurie Saylor in her role as dean,” said Becky Rowley, President of SFCC. “Laurie has a strong track record of promoting student success and fostering faculty growth. She is a forward-thinking leader who has already demonstrated her commitment to SFCC’s students. She is also forging strategic partnerships and engaging with business and community leaders to better serve our community.”
Margaret Peters, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, added, “Laurie Saylor exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and commitment that is essential for academic excellence. Her extensive background in both administration and teaching uniquely equips her to drive strategic initiatives and enhance student success. I look forward to working alongside Laurie as we continue to create pathways for learning and growth at SFCC.”
A dedicated educational leader, Saylor has more than 20 years of experience in both academic and administrative roles. In her previous position as Associate Dean at SFCC, she focused on data-driven decision-making, curriculum review, and enhancing course schedule efficiency. As Interim Dean, she oversaw budget management and guided strategic planning and enrollment management across various associate and certificate programs.
Prior to her tenure at SFCC, Saylor was the Director of Online Learning at Hillsborough Community College in Florida, where she managed the quality and growth of online courses and ensured compliance with accreditation standards. Her leadership in distance education included spearheading initiatives to improve course quality and student engagement.
Saylor brings more than 15 years of teaching experience, including roles as an Assistant Mathematics Professor and Adjunct Instructor. Her commitment to fostering inclusive environments is reflected in her extensive work with diverse populations, particularly in minority-majority and Hispanic-serving institutions.
“I’m thrilled to serve as Dean and support our students’ success. My primary goal is to break down barriers so faculty and staff can thrive and focus their efforts on students,” Saylor said. “One of the best parts of working at SFCC is getting to know our students and celebrating their achievements at Commencement.”
She emphasized that a key aspect of student success is connecting students with meaningful employment opportunities that offer sustainable wages. “I’m particularly excited about a new partnership with the City’s Office of Economic Development, which will enable SFCC to hire a Workforce Coordinator to enhance and develop partnerships,” she added. Saylor also values networking with community partners and is part of this year’s Leadership Santa Fe class.
Looking ahead, Saylor anticipates greater collaboration between the School of Trades, Technology and Sustainability and the School of Business, Professional Studies and Education, noting they are already working together on events and curriculum.
Currently pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Leadership and Innovation, Saylor holds a master’s degree in education from the University of New Mexico and has completed additional coursework in Applied Statistics and Instructional Design. Her leadership training emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethics, underscoring her commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
Saylor is proud to call New Mexico home. Earlier in her career, she lived in Albuquerque and taught in Rio Rancho, where she fell in love with the state. After some time away to be closer to her family, she is thrilled to return and immerse herself in New Mexico’s stunning landscapes and diverse cultures.
Santa Fe Community College celebrates its 40th Anniversary as the pathway to success for individuals and the community. SFCC provides affordable, high-quality programs that serve the academic, cultural, and economic needs of the community. The college welcomes over 10,000 students per year in credit, noncredit, workforce training, personal enrichment, and adult programs.
A “Best for Vets” and a “Military Friendly” school.
Visit sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1000.
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