2019 – EdD, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, Florida State University
2018 – Graduate Certificate, Program Evaluation, Florida State University
2015 – Certificate, Conflict Management and Resolution
2012 – MA, Liberal Studies
2006 – BA, Communication Studies
A champion for student success and a first-generation college graduate himself, Dr. Larry Pakowski serves as the Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Student Affairs Officer at Aims Community College. In this role, he strategically leads a comprehensive Student Affairs division encompassing five key units: Dean of Students, Enrollment Management, Student Accessibility and Well-Being, Student Success, and All-In Programs and Services.
Prior to his arrival at Aims in July 2023, Larry established a reputation for innovation at Polk State College in Lakeland, Florida, where he served as the Associate Vice President for Student Services. He was instrumental in conceiving and implementing forward-thinking initiatives such as guided pathways, a novel appreciative advising model, onboarding coaching, and the College’s strategic enrollment management plan. These strategic moves resulted in significant improvements across key institutional metrics, including enrollment, retention, and completion, with a notable impact on underserved student populations.
Larry's expertise extends beyond individual institutions. He actively contributed to statewide accessibility and curriculum redesign efforts in Florida, notably serving as a Pathways Navigator for the Florida Student Success Center's Pathways Institute. In this capacity, he leveraged his doctoral research on the American Association of Community Colleges’ Pathways Project to guide other colleges in implementing guided pathways. His commitment to the field is further evident through his service on the editorial board of the Journal for Postsecondary Success at Florida State University.
A proud North Carolina native, Larry's leadership journey includes valuable experience within the North Carolina Community College System at Brunswick Community College, a period marked by significant growth and recognition for the institution. His passion for higher education began in the undergraduate admissions office of his alma mater, the University of North Carolina Wilmington, laying the foundation for his deep understanding of the student experience.
Larry professional interests center around meeting students where they are at and eliminating barriers to their success. He has also taught courses at both the undergraduate and graduate level in first-year success, leadership, interpersonal communication, and program evaluation. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with wife, two sons, and rescue pup, along with reading, watching sports, and cooking.