Robert Hernandez Joins College Access Plan’s Board of Directors

College Access Plan (CAP), a Pasadena nonprofit that provides free programs in college preparedness and success, is pleased to announce that Robert Hernandez has joined its board of directors.

Hernandez served as principal of Pasadena High School from 2016-2022 and was recently named Director of Planning, Innovation, Accountability, and Special Projects for Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD). He has a strong record of addressing long-standing inequities and leveraging community resources to improve the academic, emotional, and physical well-being of students. Hernandez joined PUSD from Sheldon Early College High School in Texas, where he was principal. A fluent Spanish speaker, he has a Bachelor’s degree from Texas A & M University and a Master’s in Educational Management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. He is a candidate for an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy at Pepperdine University.

“When I arrived at PHS and PUSD, I was immediately drawn to CAP and the service they provide to our students, families, and our school community,” Hernandez says. “As a first-generation college graduate, I know the challenges of navigating the process of researching, applying, selecting, and securing financial support to further one’s education. To have the support of CAP as an additional resource to students and families has been incredible.”

CAP Executive Director, Mo Hyman, says of Hernandez, “His long-time relationship with CAP as well as deep understanding of the challenges first-generation students face in an ever-changing college admissions environment make Robert a perfect addition to our board.” Hernandez adds that he is eager to “amplify the message and help increase support for CAP.” As a new board member, he seeks to broaden CAP’s reach so that more students, especially those who have been underrepresented in higher education, can achieve their dreams of earning a college degree.

“I am honored to be a part of such a dynamic, innovative organization!,” says Hernandez.