Kimberly Sanders

Welcome to the new AACRAO website. While the site is live, development is ongoing, visitors can expect updates and new features in the weeks ahead.

Dr. Kimberly E. Sanders currently serves as the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at the University of Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Sanders has held roles in enrollment management, registrar services, state funding, data analysis, admissions, recruitment, student activities, veterans’ services, international programs, K-12 outreach, and transfer articulations. She has held leadership positions at Prairie View A&M University, Alamo Colleges District, University of St. Thomas, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Marygrove College, Schoolcraft College, and Henry Ford Community College.

Dr. Sanders holds a B.S.B.A. in Accounting from Lawrence Tech University, a Specialist degree in Community College Leadership from Eastern Michigan University, a Master of Science in Finance from Walsh School of Accountancy, and an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University. She also holds the Strategic Enrollment Management Certification from AACRAO SEM.

Slated Position: 2027-2028 N&E Committee Member Candidate
Position Statement

I am honored to be considered for a role supporting the nominations and elections process within AACRAO. With more than 25 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education, I currently serve as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Strategic Operations at Texas A&M University–San Antonio. My career reflects a consistent commitment to advancing student success, strengthening institutional effectiveness, and leading transformational change across enrollment, registrar, and student services functions.

Throughout my career, I have led complex, cross-functional operations that span admissions, registrar services, enrollment systems, and student support. I have successfully implemented data-informed strategies that improved enrollment outcomes, streamlined processes, and enhanced the student experience. My leadership has included building and managing high-performing teams, overseeing large-scale operational units, and fostering collaboration across academic and administrative divisions. These experiences have shaped my ability to think systemically, lead through complexity, and align people, processes, and technology toward institutional goals.

My service within AACRAO, including my current role as Chair of the Program Committee (Group 1), has further strengthened my commitment to the profession. In this capacity, I have worked collaboratively with colleagues nationwide to elevate emerging issues, curate meaningful content, and ensure that programming reflects the evolving landscape of higher education. This experience has provided valuable insight into the importance of cultivating leadership that is both strategic and representative of AACRAO’s diverse membership.

I am seeking this opportunity because I believe the nominations and elections process plays a critical role in shaping the future of AACRAO. As higher education continues to evolve, driven by shifting enrollment patterns, increased accountability, technological advancement, and a growing focus on student outcomes, it is essential that we intentionally identify and elevate leaders who are equipped to navigate these complexities and lead with vision.

If elected, I will focus on three strategic priorities. First, I am committed to expanding and strengthening the leadership pipeline by actively identifying and encouraging participation from professionals across institution types, functional areas, and career stages. My experience building partnerships across K–12, community colleges, and universities has reinforced the importance of inclusive representation and broad engagement.

Second, I will prioritize transparency and accessibility in the nominations process. Clear communication and intentional outreach are essential to ensuring that members understand how to engage and see themselves reflected in leadership pathways. I am committed to fostering a process that is both inclusive and accessible, encouraging greater participation across the association.

Third, I will support alignment between leadership selection and AACRAO’s strategic direction. My background in strategic enrollment management, data governance, and process improvement has underscored the importance of selecting leaders who can think analytically, lead innovation, and respond to the evolving needs of our institutions and students.

Additionally, I bring a strong commitment to leadership development and succession planning. I have consistently invested in mentoring and developing emerging leaders, recognizing that the long-term strength of any organization depends on its ability to cultivate talent and create pathways for growth. Within AACRAO, I would support efforts to intentionally identify, develop, and elevate future leaders who will sustain and advance the association’s mission.

I believe my executive leadership experience, combined with my active engagement in AACRAO and my deep understanding of enrollment and registrar functions, positions me to contribute meaningfully in this role. I am passionate about ensuring that AACRAO remains a forward-thinking, inclusive, and impactful organization that continues to lead the profession.

It would be an honor to serve and support the continued strength and future direction of AACRAO.