Sean C. Pepin

About Sean C. Pepin

For 20 years, I\'ve been wrestling with the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) puzzle of how organizations and systems can truly unlock human potential and drive positive social impact. Yes, I\'ve got the PhD and senior roles in areas like DEI, student success, and leadership development under my belt. But strip it all away, and I\'m fundamentally a problem-solver obsessed with making things work better for people and communities.Think of me as part strategist, part scholar-practitioner, part \'let\'s get things done with intention\' facilitator. I help organizations move beyond talk to action – designing strategic plans that actually get used, building leadership programs that cultivate real change agents, and aligning systems (KPIs included!) around equity and measurable outcomes so we\'re not just wandering in the dark. Whether mapping clearer pathways to opportunity, designing C-suite retreats, or digging into data, I\'ve learned that asking the right questions is often more powerful than having all the answers.My approach blends rigorous thinking with rolling up my sleeves. It\'s about creating data-driven, human-centered solutions that bridge visionary goals with practical execution. I\'m passionate about dismantling systemic barriers and building platforms – whether in education, non-profits, or community initiatives – that act as springboards, enabling more people to access opportunity and thrive.

Experience

1. Chief of Staff

   American Airlines

   May 2025 — Present · Dallas, TX, US

Education

• University of Washington Tacoma

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Ethnic, Gender, and Labor Studies

• Western Michigan University

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership

  2007 — 2009

• University of Maryland

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Higher Education, Student Affairs, and International Education Policy

  2012 — 2015

• Tacoma Community College

  Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.S.)