Karin Hilgersom
President
Truckee Meadows Community College
Reno, NV USA
“It’s really important to take advantage of the possible mentors that can help you.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationKarin Hilgersom
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I’m a child of immigrants—my parents came to the U.S. from Holland in the 1950s and were able to succeed because of my father’s technical degree, which came with the promise of a job in the U.S.
I’ve always loved learning and have been fascinated by a large variety of subjects—even as a young child, I couldn’t wait to get up every morning and go to school.
As an undergrad student, I majored in organizational communication after taking a few communications courses and realizing my passion for the subject.
Having done very well in the communications program during my undergrad career, an advisor noticed my passion and recommended me for a full scholarship to continue my education in graduate school.
At the University of Oregon, I received a master’s degree in rhetoric and communication and a doctorate in educational leadership, policy, and management.
I’ve been a full-time college faculty member for about 16 years—I taught a variety of communications courses and even developed a women's studies program.
After working as a teacher for so many years, I decided it was time to let my leadership skills shine and started down the long path to becoming a community college president.
I was the president of a small college in New York but it wasn’t the right fit for me—after searching for jobs on the west coast, I was offered this position at Truckee Meadows Community College!
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
Organizational Communications
California State University, Stanislaus
Organizational Communications
California State University, Stanislaus
Career
President
I lead the students and faculty as president of a community college.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Non-Profit Organizations
Teaching / Mentoring
Day to Day
Working in college administration means that no two days are the same. As president of the college, it's my responsibility to make sure our faculty and curriculum are setting students up to go into the world, adapt to the changes in technology, and make an impact.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
Take advantage of the more mature mentors you have access to, especially in a college environment. They have a lot of experience and are usually very willing to give advice and help you succeed.
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"You need to focus on one discipline."
Challenges I Overcame
Gender Discrimination
Interviewed By
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