Candidate for
Director, National
Dr. Jack Paduntin
Los Angeles
Former President
Pacific Oaks College
Statement of Interest
I am humbled to seek the role of National Director for the Thai American Samakkee Coalition as an opportunity to give back to the community that has profoundly shaped my journey. Throughout my career in higher education, I have benefited from the unwavering support and encouragement of the Thai community, which has fueled my passion for advancing opportunities for others. This role represents a chance for me to devote my time and energy to strengthening our community and empowering future generations of Thai Americans to thrive while staying connected to their cultural roots.
My vision as National Director is to foster programs that inspire leadership, promote cultural pride, and create opportunities for civic engagement. By working collaboratively with the Coalition’s board and members, I hope to help build a stronger, more united Thai American community. Serving in this capacity would be a meaningful way for me to express gratitude and ensure that the support I received is extended to others, creating a legacy of empowerment and belonging.
Bio
Dr. Jack Paduntin brings over 30 years of distinguished experience in higher education. He began his academic career as an Assistant Professor of Management at Brescia University and has since held various impactful leadership roles, including Associate Dean at California State University San Bernardino; Vice President of Institutional Research and Assessment at National University; President of National University International; and Vice President and Chief of Staff at John F. Kennedy University. From 2019 to 2023, Dr. Paduntin served as President of Pacific Oaks College, where he championed initiatives to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. He currently serves as Provost at the California Institute of Advanced Management in Los Angeles.
Beyond his institutional leadership, Dr. Paduntin has significantly contributed to quality assurance and accreditation efforts. He served on the Board of Examiners for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and participated in accreditation visiting teams for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC). From 2019 to 2023, he also served on the Executive Committee of the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU).
Dr. Paduntin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Ramkhamhaeng University in Thailand, an MBA in International Management from the University of Dallas, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Strategic Management from Alliant International University. His academic achievements are complemented by a lifelong dedication to community service. During his early career, he collaborated with churches and retirement homes for Catholic nuns, helping to improve performance management systems that enhanced services for parishioners and residents. He also led the diversity council for the Society for Human Resource Management, drawing on his experience as a non-citizen to advocate for inclusivity.
As an immigrant from Thailand, Dr. Paduntin has firsthand insight into the challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds. He is a passionate advocate for equity in education, working tirelessly to close opportunity gaps, advance student success, and empower minority communities through education. His unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and access underscores his belief in the transformative power of education.