Dyrell Foster

2022-23 Aspen New Presidents Fellow
Dr. Dyrell Foster is a student-centered leader with a proven track record of advancing educational access, equity, student retention and success. He is collaborative in his approach to implementing institutional practices, behaviors, and policies that provide a positive climate on campus and effectively address the diverse needs of students.

As president of Las Positas College, Foster is committed to providing strong leadership with a high degree of integrity, passion, and commitment to serving students in a growing and supportive community. Foster is passionate about cultivating effective partnerships and promoting innovative approaches to enhancing student success outcomes.

Previously, Foster served as vice president of student services at Moreno Valley College; dean of student affairs at Rio Hondo College; associate dean of counseling and director of student life at Mt. San Antonio College; director of student life at Evergreen Valley College; and activities coordinator at San Jose State University. In addition, Foster has served as a part-time lecturer in the College of Education at both California State University, Long Beach and California State University, Fullerton.

Being the first in his family to attend college, Foster received his doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Southern California, his master’s degree in counseling: student development in higher education from California State University, Long Beach, and his bachelor’s degree in applied behavioral science from the University of California, Davis, where he served as co-captain of the UC Davis Aggies football team. He and his wife, Tami, have two children: Maylea and Daylen.