Kristen Soares

Kristen Soares is the fourth president of the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU), representing more than 80 independent, nonprofit institutions committed to the public good. As president, she serves as the chief spokesperson for the sector, working in close partnership with campus leaders and policymakers to shape state and federal higher education policy that expands access, advances affordability, and strengthens student success. Under her leadership, AICCU has advanced forward-looking policy initiatives, including a landmark agreement with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to implement the Associate Degree for Transfer pathway within the independent sector to expand and streamline transfer opportunities for community college students. She brings over 35 years of experience in higher education administration and public policy, including senior leadership roles at the University of Southern California. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California.