The University of La Verne will welcome Alberto J. Román back to campus as the undergraduate commencement speaker for the Class of 2026. Román currently serves as Chancellor of the Los Angeles Community College District, the largest community college district in the nation, serving more than 200,000 students across nine colleges.
A proud Leo, Román earned both his Master of Public Administration and Doctor of Public Administration degrees from the University of La Verne. After immigrating from Mexico as a child, he overcame many of the same barriers faced by first-generation students to become one of California’s leading voices in higher education. His career has remained rooted in public service, educational access, and creating opportunities for students from all backgrounds.
Ahead of commencement, Román reflected on the message he hopes graduates carry with them, the lessons he learned during his time at ULV, and the advice he would offer students as they prepare to enter their next chapter.
Q. What core message or takeaway do you hope graduates carry with them from your commencement address?
“I hope graduates walk away understanding the importance of service to others and leading with compassion. Success is not just about titles, accomplishments, or personal achievement. It is about finding your purpose and using your talent, your humanity, and your willingness to uplift others.
The world is waiting for leaders who understand that while a degree gives you knowledge, it is your character that will determine your impact. The world needs more compassionate leaders, problem-solvers, and individuals who are willing to stand up for others.
My hope is that they leave inspired to pursue success with heart, to lead with empathy, and to never forget the responsibility that comes with the opportunities they have earned.”
Q. In what ways did your experience at the University of La Verne help shape your approach to leadership and service?
“To this day, the University of La Verne continues to shape the way I lead and serve others. My time here helped deepen my understanding of servant and transformational leadership.
I learned that leadership is not about power or recognition, it is about creating opportunity, empowering others, and helping people believe in their own potential. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my entire professional journey.
Perhaps most importantly, my experience at La Verne strengthened my belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for equity and social mobility. It shaped my commitment to ensuring that students, especially those who have historically been underserved, have access to opportunity, support, and the belief that they belong.
That mission continues to guide me every day in my work and in my leadership.”
Q. What does it mean to you to return to the University of La Verne as this year’s commencement speaker?
“It truly feels like coming home. This university changed my life. It is where I earned two of my degrees, built lifelong relationships, and began discovering my professional purpose.
To now return and speak to the next generation of graduates is incredibly meaningful and emotional for me. What makes this even more special is the opportunity to give back to an institution that invested so much in me. The University of La Verne not only prepared me academically, but also helped shape my values, my leadership philosophy, and my commitment to service.
Standing on that stage is not just about celebrating achievement, it is about expressing gratitude to a university and community that helped shape the person I am today. I will always be proud to call myself a Leo for life! ”
Q. Looking back on your professional journey, what advice would you offer students as they prepare to enter their next chapter after graduation?
“Do not let fear keep you small and take risks. Some of the greatest opportunities in life come disguised as failure, uncertainty, or disappointment. Speak up and take up space in this world. Apply for the opportunity even when you doubt yourself.
You might fail, but that failure could lead you to something even greater. Stay grounded in your values and remember the people who helped you get where you are today.
At the end of the day, success is not only measured by what you accomplish for yourself, but by how many people you uplift and impact along the way Most importantly, never underestimate the power of your voice, your story, and your lived experiences.
The world does not need you to be perfect; it needs you to be authentic, courageous, and willing to contribute. Lead with compassion, stay curious, continue learning, and never lose sight of why you started.
Your degree may open the door, but your integrity, work ethic, and humanity will determine the legacy you leave behind.”
Written by: Alexavier Soltero
