Gabe Jones, Ph.D. '21

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Pacific Oaks College & Children's School, a national leader in early childhood education, has hired Gabe Jones, Ph.D. '21, as its vice president of academic affairs. Jones brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education administration to his new role, reinforcing Pacific Oaks’ commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Jones to Pacific Oaks,” said Breeda McGrath, Ph.D., president of Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School. “His vast experience in academic leadership and deep understanding of accreditation and institutional effectiveness will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our academic offerings.”

From the press release:

Dr. Jones has had a distinguished career that includes key leadership positions such as national director of academics at SAE Institute North America, dean of academic affairs at the Art Institute of California – Hollywood and academic director of the College Preparation Program at Northwestern University. In these roles, he has demonstrated outstanding capabilities in overseeing academic operations at both the system and campus level and leading academic institutions through the accreditation process.

In addition to his administrative expertise, Dr. Jones has a robust teaching background, having taught for more than 20 years at institutions that include UCLA, San Diego State University and Santa Monica College. His comprehensive understanding of both the academic and operational facets of higher education will be an asset to Pacific Oaks as it pursues its strategic goals.

“I am honored to join Pacific Oaks and contribute to its legacy of providing transformative education,” said Dr. Jones. “I look forward to working with its faculty, staff and students to continue fostering an inclusive and dynamic academic environment that empowers individuals to achieve their full potential.”

Pacific Oaks is part of The Community Solution Education System, a nonprofit education system made up of six colleges and universities that uses shared infrastructure and collaboration to drive innovation and advance student outcomes. Since joining The Community Solution in 2010, Pacific Oaks has expanded educational offerings to include a doctoral program and more than 20 academic areas.

“Dr. Jones joins a community of academic leaders dedicated to collaborating across institutions to enhance the student experience,” said Michael Horowitz, Ph.D., chancellor of The Community Solution Education System. “We look forward to working together to advance academic excellence at Pacific Oaks.”

Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School, a Hispanic Serving Institution, is credited with pioneering anti-bias curricula and launching one of the nation’s first Head Start training programs. It offers a wide range of in-person and online programs that are tailored to fit student needs. In addition to its innovative teacher preparation programs, the college offers degrees in social work, psychology, human development, marriage and family therapy and business and management.

Jones earned his Ph.D. in education.