San Marcos, CA – Pending Governing Board approval on December 6, Palomar College is set to welcome a new Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Instruction, Dr. Tina Recalde, who comes to San Marcos early in 2023 with 25 years of experience working in the California Community Colleges.
As the new head of Instructional Services at Palomar, Dr. Recalde is stepping into the former position of Dr. Jack Kahn, who departed in July 2022 after nine years at the College.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Recalde as our new VP of Instruction—a role that involves so many of our core functions at Palomar College,” said Superintendent/President Dr. Star Rivera-Lacey. “We know that she will be a great fit with our campus community, and brings many skills and qualities to our institution that will further the success of our students.”
Dr. Recalde recalled beginning her career at Southwestern Community College in Chula Vista as a student worker, followed by six years as a classified professional and later returning as an athletic trainer and adjunct faculty member: “Throughout my career, my heart has always been at the community colleges and serving students, and I’ve always ended up coming back.”
In 2011, Dr. Recalde started teaching full-time at San Diego Mesa College, and five years later she became an instructional dean there. Her most recent role at Mesa was Dean of Health Sciences and Public Service.
All told, she has more than 25 years of experience working in California Community Colleges as an administrator, faculty member, and classified professional. Her work has included leading, planning, evaluating and supporting various academic and workforce training programs, as well as extensive administrative experience.
She holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Southern California.
A resident of Oceanside, Dr. Recalde said she looks forward to supporting the campus community and collaborating with other leaders at Palomar “to ensure we provide high-quality education to every student so they can reach their educational and career goals. To me, it’s really about changing hearts and minds, and propelling people forward to success.”
“Dr. Recalde’s passion for contributing to the success of others, is in perfect alignment with the mission, vision and values of Palomar College,” said Dr. Rivera-Lacey. “We are fortunate to have her join our institution.”
