We’re wrapping up our “Honor Your Gifts and Say Yes” series with a powerful conversation on turning vision into real opportunities for students. Dr. William Syms, Vice President of Student Services, Enrollment Management and Equity Initiatives at West Los Angeles College (WLAC), shares how his journey has shaped his passion for advocacy and college access. He unpacks a bold Vision 2030 plan for students and explains how guaranteed admission in the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) helps remove application barriers and why helping students find their identity at WLAC is central to building authentic relationships for their future. Discover how to connect your dreams to real pathways, as this episode invites you to “say yes” to your next step at WLAC. Spring classes begin February 9th!

Dr. Syms completed his Doctorate of Education in Urban Education and Leadership at University of Southern California (USC). A political and community organizer from Altadena California, he began his career as a 16 year old President of the Pasadena City College chapter of the NAACP where he worked to educate young people about leveraging their economic power while pursuing education. His activism continued at Clark Atlanta University where he worked with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the NAACP to champion restorative justice legislation throughout the southeast region. After college, Dr. Syms refined his organizing skills as a Congressional Field Representative for former Congressman Adam Schiff, where he managed federal issues in the areas of science, technology and entertainment. Following his time with congress, he returned to work with the NAACP as a youth organizer, and served on the National Campaigns team for Amnesty International. To learn more about Dr. Syms and his work, visit WLAC.edu, email him at [email protected], or connect with him on LinkedIn.