Conversations with Clark Leadership

VP Dr. Brown invites students to discuss leadership skills and career paths at quarterly event

Connection was the theme of the day at “Lunch with Leadership,” a quarterly event held on May 5 that brings together students and members of Clark’s leadership team. Sponsored by the Associated Students of Clark College (ASCC), the event provided a platform for candid and constructive conversation over a shared meal. 

Each present cabinet member — President Karin Edwards and Vice Presidents Dr. Brown, Dr. Orchard, and Sudha Frederick — and leadership from ASCC and the Activities Programming Board (APB), were each seated at their own table. Attendees rotated through tables every 15 minutes, allowing them time to engage with multiple leaders throughout the afternoon. 

At Dr. Brown’s table, the conversation opened with questions for the students: What does Clark do well, and what do we need to change? One participant, a Running Start student, expressed his appreciation for his professors, who “actually want me to learn,” and for the warm and welcoming environment Clark provides for its students. He didn’t have suggestions for ways Clark can improve, but Dr. Brown encouraged him to share any ideas in the future. 

When it was the students’ turn to ask questions, they dug deeper into Dr. Brown’s journey to becoming Clark’s VP of Instruction and the skills that are vital in today’s workplace. When asked if this role was his original goal, he shared that he went to school to become a high school counselor but pivoted when his advisor encouraged him to challenge himself and think on a bigger scale. He highlighted the importance of having the right kind of support in these moments.  

He eventually became a faculty member at a community college before stepping into an administrative role. 

“I’m all about making colleges work better for students,” he said. 

Students were also curious about the kinds of skills Dr. Brown thought were necessary for thriving in the workplace. His top suggestion: learn how to connect with people. He advised students to get into the habit of being generous in their communication with others and to keep an open mind when collaborating. 

“You’re never going to know everything, so be ready to keep learning,” he said. 

About the ASCC Student Government

The Associated Students of Clark College (ASCC) Student Government represents and advocates for Clark students, serving as a liaison between students and college leadership and administration. Recognized by the Board of Trustees as the official student representative, ASCC supports leadership development, student engagement, and collaboration in alignment with Clark College’s mission, vision, and values. Learn more about ASCC Student Government here. 

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing