Dr. Dyrell Foster has dedicated more than 25 years to serving students in the California Community College system, guided by a deep belief in the transformative power of education. As a first-generation college student, he understands firsthand the opportunities—and barriers—that shape students’ journeys, and that perspective continues to ground his leadership.
As President of Las Positas College, Dr. Foster is committed to creating a positive teaching and learning environment that is student-centered and equity-focused, and that drives meaningful gains in student success. He leads with a focus on access, equity, and student success, while fostering a culture of collaboration, care, and continuous improvement. He is particularly passionate about building strong partnerships and advancing innovative approaches that expand opportunity and strengthen outcomes for students and the broader community.
Dr. Foster’s leadership career reflects a longstanding commitment to student development and institutional impact. Prior to joining Las Positas College, he served as Vice President of Student Services at Moreno Valley College; Dean of Student Affairs at Rio Hondo College; Associate Dean of Counseling and Director of Student Life at Mt. San Antonio College; Director of Student Life at Evergreen Valley College; and Activities Coordinator at San José State University. He has also served as a part-time lecturer in the Colleges of Education at California State University, Long Beach and California State University, Fullerton.
Dr. Foster earned his Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern California, a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Long Beach, and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavioral Science from the University of California, Davis, where he was co-captain of the Aggies football team.