Crafton Hills College Highlights Leadership in Dual Enrollment at Statewide Equity Conference

Publish Date: April 9, 2026

Crafton Hills College counselor, Souts Xayaphanthong, recently presented at the California Dual Enrollment Equity Conference, in San Diego, California.

Souts presented a workshop titled “Building Dual Enrollment Partnerships: People Over Processes,” engaging faculty and community partners from across the state in an interactive session focused on strengthening dual enrollment collaborations through an equity-centered approach.

The workshop emphasized the importance of prioritizing authentic relationships over rigid systems when building partnerships between K–12 districts and higher education institutions. Participants explored how trust, communication, and shared goals can lead to more sustainable and impactful dual enrollment programs, particularly for historically underserved students.

Attendees responded positively to the session, with several participants sharing their intent to bring these strategies back to their own institutions to reinforce people-centered decision-making in their dual enrollment efforts.

“This work is grounded in the belief that systems should serve people, not the other way around,” said Souts. “When organizations prioritize people, they build trust, strengthen collaboration, and create the conditions for long-term success. At Crafton Hills College, this approach has contributed to stronger partnerships and significant growth in our dual enrollment program.”

The conference was hosted by California Alliance of Dual Enrollment Partnerships, Career Ladders Project, and EdTrust–West, bringing together educators and leaders committed to advancing equity in dual enrollment across California.