David M. Lee, Jr.

Leader, Mentor and solutions oriented

Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

About

I am passionate about empowering leaders and driving positive, inclusive change by leveraging organizational strategy, leadership, creativity, and professional assessment to advance community and institutional goals. With a strong background in higher education, I have collaborated with students, faculty, and staff across diverse university settings, serving on executive teams and campus-wide committees focused on strategic planning and student success. My experience in Student Affairs spans a wide range of areas, including student organizations and leadership development, disability services, international student support, diversity and inclusion initiatives, career services and placement strategies, part-time employment programs, counseling and referral services, support for veterans, conduct adjudication, Title IX compliance, and academic support. I’ve led successful retention efforts and coordinated major programs such as new student orientation and commencement, resulting in increased student engagement, improved career outcomes, and stronger auxiliary revenue. Additionally, I’ve provided training for faculty and staff on student behavior, early intervention, and classroom management to support a healthy learning environment. I welcome the opportunity to share my full résumé or provide further details upon request.

Experience

  • Director Special Programs / Student Advocacy and Accountability at Santa Ana College
    Dec 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

    Provide support and guidance to students navigating conduct concerns while promoting fair, consistent, and student-centered approaches to behavioral issues. Lead the development and implementation of student leadership programming tailored to Santa Ana College students, focused on strengthening leadership skills, increasing student engagement, and supporting a positive campus community. Developed and oversee the Peer Advocate Program, a peer-to-peer initiative that supports students in navigating conflicts, connecting with campus resources, and building communication and problem-solving skills. Recruit, train, and supervise student leaders who serve as Peer Advocates, providing structured training in conflict resolution, leadership development, and peer support. Design and facilitate workshops, trainings, and educational resources that empower students to help other students and promote accountability, leadership, and community support across campus. Collaborate with faculty, counseling, campus safety, and student services to coordinate student support systems and strengthen campus-wide efforts related to student accountability and leadership development.

  • Independent Leadership Facilitator at Independent Trainer
    2012 - Present · 14 yrs 6 mos

    Customized leadership and facilitation to groups and organizations in group dynamics, goal setting and self - awareness through interactive and engaging exercises. Team exercises focus on improved production, managing interpersonal conflict and increasing self-awareness. Through a variety of exercises and assessments, groups can learn more about working with others through positive relationships. References include, but not limited to, Color Code, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Strengths Finder and Leadership Practices Inventory. Group highlights have included business and university settings. For more information, contact me directly.

  • Dean of Student Affairs at Laguna College of Art and Design
    Dec 2022 - Dec 2023 · 1 yr 1 mo

  • Director Of Student Affairs at West Coast University
    Dec 2019 - Dec 2022 · 3 yrs 1 mo

  • Assistant Director Student Life and Veteran Services at Golden Gate University
    Aug 2018 - Dec 2019 · 1 yr 5 mos

    Serve as a member of Student Affairs collaborating with University Academic Advisors, Career Services and Wellness, management of clubs and organizations, student activities, New Student Orientation and activities, coordinate graduation commencement activities for undergraduate and graduate students, advise and maintain veteran support services, collaborate with community partners in the benefit of current students.