Cassondra Reinsel has spent years working in education, dedicated to teaching and creating programs that uplift disproportionately impacted students. Her work is fueled by a deep commitment to removing barriers and expanding opportunities for student success.
That passion began early. In high school, while getting help with college applications, a staff member discouraged her from applying to certain universities, insisting she “wouldn’t get in.” Instead of accepting that limitation, Cassondra applied anyway. She was admitted to nine universities and ultimately chose UCLA.
The moment was eye-opening; someone whose job was to guide students had almost derailed her path with a single comment. That experience stayed with her, shaping her belief in the power of support, representation and unwavering advocacy for students who are too often underestimated.
Years later, Cassondra witnessed a similar barrier while supporting a Pacific Islander student who had left a gang and was determined to change his future, and inspire his younger siblings to do the same. After she helped him map out A–G coursework, he brought the plan to his counselor, only to be told those classes were “for students going to college” and that he should take PE instead.
For Cassondra, it was another defining moment, one that reinforced how crucial equitable guidance is, and how easily a student’s potential can be dismissed.
“That moment ignited my commitment to ensuring students are supported and empowered, not limited by the systems meant to help them. This is when I knew working in education would be my path.”
As a Samoan woman, Cassondra is also driven to increase visibility for Pacific Islanders in education.
She says representation matters, and she wants her community to see that they can pursue their own passions and pave the way for others.
"I believe I am one of the first Samoan deans in California, and I’m inspired by the many Pacific Islander leaders across our community colleges who are doing transformative work. I’m honored to stand with them as we continue building representation and opening doors for those who follow."
Cassondra first began her career in the community college system at Chabot College. It was there that she was introduced to a professional pathway that would become her dream job later on, at DVC.
“I learned about a role that focused on supporting learning communities and equity initiatives to make students’ paths to success smoother.”
She knew she wanted a similar role, one where she could champion students’ success on a broader scale. When the time came to pursue that path, her search led her to DVC, where she stepped into the role of Dean of Student Equity and Engagement.
DVC was not completely foreign to Cassondra as her mother attended DVC to complete a certificate program and enter a new career with more passion and higher earning potential.
"I am very familiar with the journey she had as a DVC student. Watching her navigate college after more than 30 years away from school was inspiring. She often shared how supported she felt by her professors and how empowering it was to succeed in that environment.”
Seeing her mother’s experience firsthand showed her what it truly meant to be part of the DVC community. She recognized the college’s deep commitment to student success and knew it aligned perfectly with her own values as an education professional.
As the Dean of Student Equity and Engagement, Cassondra works closely with faculty, staff and students to foster an inclusive, equitable campus climate and to ensure that all students have access to the support and resources they need to succeed.
“I work with our Learning Communities, Diamante Scholars, the TRiO program, the Inclusivity and Wellness Center, Student Life, and the PUMA Center.”
What inspires Cassondra most at DVC is the resilience and determination she sees in students every day. She’s equally motivated by her colleagues, whose dedication to equity and student success mirrors her own.
“Working alongside people who share the same purpose fuels my drive to continue creating programs and spaces that empower students to thrive.”
In her role, Cassondra hopes to focus on finding innovative ways to meet students where they are, to listen to their needs and to design supports that make a real difference in their journey.
“That combination of student resilience, colleague collaboration and creative problem solving is what continues to inspire and energize me every day.”
