Dr. Lancelot Gooden

I am an innovative higher education leader with a deep commitment to student success, academic excellence, and institutional transformation. With over a decade of progressive leadership experience, I specialize in aligning academic programming with strategic goals, fostering inclusive and equity-driven environments, and building strong community and industry partnerships.

As Provost of Valencia College’s Osceola and Poinciana campuses, I provide executive oversight for academic programs and student services serving more than 16,000 students across in-person, online, and hybrid modalities. I co-lead strategic enrollment initiatives, advance statewide Math Pathways reforms, and guide mental health research initiatives in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I’ve championed equity-centered strategies such as the Student Ready Vision framework and elevated the college’s regional presence through innovative partnerships, including with the Osceola Magic.

Previously, I held leadership roles at Durham Technical Community College and Johnston Community College, where I led major infrastructure projects, expanded access for marginalized students, and launched high-impact STEM and dual enrollment programs. My work has consistently focused on breaking down barriers, empowering faculty and students, and creating systems that support sustainable change. I bring a collaborative, student-centered approach to every role and strive to shape institutions that are truly future-ready.