Sandra Hunter
Sandra Hunter is a seasoned higher education leader, consultant, and advocate with over 30 years of experience in education and student success programming. She is the founder and CEO of SCR Next Step Consulting and the Roadmap to Success Empowerment Center, where she focuses on expanding access, opportunity, and outcomes for first-generation, low-income, and underserved students. Her lifelong passion has centered on working with students who face systemic barriers to education, particularly those in under-resourced communities who need additional support to achieve academic and career success.
Throughout her career, Sandra has held numerous leadership roles across TRIO and student support programs, including serving as Director of Student Support Services and Ronald E. McNair programs at multiple institutions, such as the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She has also led programs including Upward Bound, Educational Opportunity Centers, and Student Support Services at institutions like Florida State University and various community colleges. Her expertise spans career counseling, program evaluation, federal grant leadership, and student development. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University and a Master’s degree in Higher Education, along with certifications in mediation and as a True Colors facilitator.
Sandra is widely recognized for her leadership in TRIO programs and her commitment to educational equity, earning recognition as a finalist for the EALA Champions award for her work advancing access for students with learning differences. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, as well as professional organizations such as the Council for Opportunity in Education and NCTRIO. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sandra credits much of her growth and resilience to mentors including Laudia Weber, Sam Hart, Dorothy Jordan, her mother, her aunt, and Freddie Slice. She continues to be driven by her mission to empower students, strengthen educational pathways, and ensure that every learner—regardless of background—has the opportunity to succeed.
• West Virginia University
BA, Social Work
• Vice-Chair
Valdosta Project Change Board of Directors
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the “angels” and mentors who have been placed in my life over the years. This includes family members, teachers, and community supporters who generously shared their time, resources, guidance, and encouragement. Their belief in me has been foundational, and I would not be where I am today without their consistent support and investment in my growth.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most meaningful pieces of advice I received came from my brother, who told me that if I truly love what I do when I show up each day, it doesn’t feel like a job—it becomes a calling. That perspective has stayed with me throughout my career. I’ve also received valuable mentorship encouraging me to pursue a doctorate, advice I deeply respect and often reflect on, even though I ultimately took a different path.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges right now is the ongoing uncertainty around federal funding and policy support for TRIO and other education access programs. There is also a broader push to reframe these programs primarily as job training initiatives, which can overlook their deeper role in long-term educational equity and student development. In response, I remain focused on advocacy efforts to protect these critical programs, while also working to strengthen and expand my nonprofit to ensure students continue to receive meaningful transition and support services.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My core values are faith in God, family, generosity, and a commitment to giving back. I also place a strong emphasis on nurturing long-term friendships and building supportive community connections. These values guide both my personal decisions and my professional work, and they keep me grounded in purpose and service to others.