Eric Handy

Dr. Handy is a seasoned, multifaceted transformational leader with over 13 years of experience across higher education, secondary education, and nonprofit sectors. He is known for his visionary leadership, student-centered approach, and commitment to advancing racial equity and student success. With a deep passion for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), Dr. Handy is recognized statewide for guiding organizations toward achieving meaningful DEIB goals.
 
In his current role as Interim Dean of Student Equity and Engagement at Diablo Valley College, Dr. Handy has successfully integrated student service programs with instructional initiatives to enhance retention and success. Under his leadership, existing programs have expanded, becoming more equitable and impactful in addressing the diverse needs of students, ultimately increasing access and achievement.
 
Dr. Handy's leadership extends beyond traditional roles—he is committed to fostering collaborative partnerships, engaging in courageous conversations, and driving sustainable solutions to systemic challenges related to equity and race. His work with The COALITION, a collective of Black, Latinx, and APIDA community college educators, exemplifies his dedication to creating a multi-organizational, multi-ethnic powerbase to drive systemic change within the California Community College system.
 
A lifelong advocate for student success, Dr. Handy holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Mills College, with a focus on Community Colleges. He also earned a Master’s in Counseling from Saint Mary’s College of California, specializing in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA), and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from San Francisco State University.