Current Position and Past Experience
Dr. Albert Lewis, Jr., has dedicated his career to transforming lives through the power of education. As a first-generation college student whose father completed only the third grade, he intimately understands education's life-changing potential, a perspective that infuses his leadership philosophy of "Students First."
Having served as the Chief of Staff/Executive Vice President at Northwest State Community College in Ohio, Dr. Lewis managed multimillion-dollar budgets and oversaw academic affairs, student affairs, workforce development, information technology, institutional research, marketing and grants. His leadership has guided the college through significant transformations, including implementing a new strategic plan, reimagining the workforce division, infusing technology to facilitate the student journey and establishing "Inclusive Brilliance: A Framework for Belonging," a comprehensive approach to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for students, staff, faculty and community.
Previously, as Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development at Bellevue College in Washington, Dr. Lewis expanded the institution's community impact through increased completions, innovative partnerships with industry leaders and culminating in Bellevue College winning Seattle Magazine's prestigious Job Creation and Workforce Development award. At Moraine Valley Community College in Illinois, where he served as Dean of Corporate, Community & Continuing Education, he secured substantial funding, expanded customized training programs and developed innovative career pathways.
Throughout his career spanning urban, suburban and rural communities, Dr. Lewis believes transformation occurs "at the intersection of academic and workforce development.” Operating with a "Can-Do Spirit," his philosophy that "Learning is Learning" underpins his holistic approach to education—one that prioritizes the student experience, student success, collaboration, inclusive environments and building communities where everyone can thrive.
Education, Honors and Achievements
With a doctorate in Education from Gwynedd Mercy University specializing in Teaching and Learning, an M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Grand Canyon University, an M.Ed. in Education Administration from the University of Akron, and a B.A. in Speech Broadcasting from Marshall University, Dr. Lewis brings a unique blend of expertise to his work.
Personal Details and Community Involvement
Albert has demonstrated extensive commitment to community and professional service throughout his career. He was appointed to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Commission on Research and Community College Trends and Issues for 2024-2026 and previously served as a member of the AACC Commission on College Readiness. His involvement in workforce and economic development has been particularly notable, serving as a voting member of the Washington Workforce Education Council (WEC), where he chaired the Economic Development Committee. He has held leadership positions on numerous boards, including serving on the Executive Committee of the Seattle-King County Economic Development Council (EDC) and chairing the Economic Development Council for Southwest Suburbs (EDCSS). Additional board service includes the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA), Bellevue Chamber of Commerce Policy Committee, Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce, Old Plank Trail Community Bank in Chicago, Illinois, Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC) in Chicago, and Southwest General Health Center in Middleburg Heights, Ohio.
Beyond these organizational leadership roles, Albert has consistently invested in student success through direct mentorship, serving as a mentor for Beating Odds Shattering Stereotypes (BOSS), a program supporting African American male students at Moraine Valley Community College, and as a mentor for the Year Up program at Bellevue College.
In his spare time, he loves spending time with his grandchildren, traveling with his wife and attending jazz concerts. He's currently fulfilling a lifelong goal of learning to play the bass guitar.
