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Leadership Studies Alumni Spotlight: Anabel Toche
Role: Executive Dean of Student Equity and Completion at Sierra College
Year Graduated: 2019
Anabel Toche is the Executive Dean of Student Equity and Completion at Sierra College. In this role, she leads initiatives that promote student success, educational equity, and institutional belonging, ensuring all students have access to the support and opportunities needed to achieve their goals. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Studies from Cal Poly Humboldt.
As a first-generation Latina who began her higher education journey at a community college, Anabel is passionate about helping students see themselves as scholars, leaders, and future changemakers. Reflecting on her time in the Leadership Studies program, she credits the curriculum with helping her develop a leadership philosophy centered on three key principles: building meaningful relationships with stakeholders, using strategic planning and data to guide decisions, and leading with empathy and heart. These principles became the foundation of her leadership approach and continue to guide her work every day.
One of the greatest strengths of the Leadership Studies program was its interdisciplinary approach. Through courses in leadership communication, strategic planning, organizational development, sustainability, technology, and stakeholder engagement, Anabel gained practical tools that prepared her to lead complex organizations while remaining grounded in service to others. The program challenged her to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand that successful leadership requires both vision and action. More importantly, the lessons learned through the Leadership Studies program have remained relevant throughout her career, and she continues to apply them today as she works alongside students, faculty, staff, and community partners to create meaningful opportunities for student success.
The program also reinforced Anabel's belief that leadership is not defined by a title, but by the ability to inspire others, create positive change, and foster environments where people can thrive. The emphasis on servant leadership, collaboration, and emotional intelligence helped shape the leader she is today and continues to influence her commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging in higher education.
Anabel continued her educational journey by earning a MBA from Southern Oregon University and recently completed a Doctorate in Educational Leadership through the UC Davis CANDEL Program. In her role as the Executive Dean of Student Equity and Completion, she works with campus and community partners to create an inclusive environment that supports Sierra College's diverse student population while implementing strategies that promote student success, belonging, and completion. With nearly 27 years of experience in higher education, Anabel is a dedicated advocate for educational equity and student success whose own journey — from community college student to college executive, educator, and doctoral graduate — reflects the transformative power of higher education.
