Dr. Lorena J. Newson: A Leader in Equity, Health, and Education
Dr. Lorena J. Newson, MPH, exemplifies equity, health, and higher education leadership. Her career reflects a strong dedication to empowering communities, driving data-informed decisions, and fostering inclusive educational environments. With her extensive background spanning public health, academic leadership, and community engagement, Dr. Newson exemplifies a methodical, equity-minded practitioner who continuously impacts Riverside, California, and beyond.
Early Career and Academic Foundation
Dr. Newson’s academic journey laid a solid foundation for her future achievements. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Natural Science and Biology from Loyola Marymount University with pre-medical and therapy emphases. Continuing her passion for public health, she pursued a Master of Science in Public Health from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Further honing her leadership abilities, she completed a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern California.
Her commitment to understanding implicit bias and cultivating equitable environments led her to Harvard Business School, where she completed an Outsmarting Implicit Bias certificate program. This credential enhanced her ability to lead fairly and inclusively in complex educational and health contexts.
A Visionary Leader at Riverside Community Health Foundation
Dr. Newson’s connection to the Riverside Community Health Foundation (RCHF) was a critical chapter in her career. Serving as the Senior Director of Health Strategies from 2018 to 2019, she leveraged her public health expertise to influence community health initiatives targeting underserved populations in Riverside County. During her tenure, she guided efforts to improve health equity by addressing social determinants of health, expanding access to preventive care, and fostering partnerships across sectors.
Additionally, Dr. Newson contributed as a Director on the RCHF Board from 2017 through 2018, shaping the foundation’s strategic vision and governance. Her work with RCHF demonstrated her ability to integrate data-driven health strategies with community-centred programming, ultimately improving health outcomes in the region.
Academic Leadership and Advocacy
Following her impactful work at RCHF, Dr. Newson transitioned to roles in higher education that allowed her to focus on equity and student success. From 2019 to 2024, she was the Dean of Guided Pathways and Professional Learning at Victor Valley College. In this capacity, she developed and implemented programs that increased college completion rates, especially among historically marginalized student groups.
In October 2024, Dr. Newson took on a pivotal role as Dean of College Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement at Riverside City College (RCC). Her responsibilities include cultivating an inclusive campus culture, promoting equitable educational policies, and leading initiatives that remove barriers to student achievement. Her leadership style is characterized by thoughtful, data-informed decision-making, strategic planning, and collaboration with faculty, staff, and community partners.
Educational Contributions and Faculty Experience
Dr. Newson’s dedication to education extends beyond administration. She has substantial experience as an educator herself. Between 2016 and 2019, she served as Associate Faculty in Health Science at Norco College and Riverside City College, teaching courses such as Health Science-1 (Bio 35). Her teaching experience in life sciences complements her administrative roles by grounding her leadership in direct student interaction and understanding of academic challenges.
Earlier in her career, Dr. Newson was Director of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and Engineering Pathways at Norco College, where she coordinated faculty efforts, managed grant-funded programs, and built partnerships to support STEM education. She was instrumental in developing programs to increase STEM participation among underrepresented students.
Commitment to Underserved Students and Programs
Dr. Newson’s career consistently reflects her commitment to first-generation and low-income students pursuing careers in STEM and health fields. From 2007 to 2011, she was the Program Manager for the Upward Bound Math Science program at Compton College, providing academic advisement, career counselling, and supplemental instruction specifically designed to support low-income students in mathematics, science, and engineering tracks. She effectively managed grant compliance and collaborated with the U.S. Department of Education to ensure program success.
Her earlier role as Educational Advisor for Educational Talent Search at California State University, Northridge, further illustrates her dedication to student guidance and outreach.
Leadership Style and Personal Attributes
Described as a “Mastermind” for her intellect, strategic thinking, and capacity to lead through complexity, Dr. Newson is both methodical and data-driven. She listens carefully and communicates selectively, preferring purposeful interactions that advance equity and student-centred outcomes.
Her leadership is defined by a balance of strength and approachability — a combination of determination and empathy. This has earned her widespread respect among colleagues and stakeholders, positioning her as a catalyst for positive change in the education and community health sectors.
Impact in Riverside and Beyond
Dr. Newson’s influence is not confined to academic institutions. Her role with Riverside Community Health Foundation contributed to meaningful improvements in community health strategies that tackle inequities affecting Riverside County’s diverse population.
At Riverside City College, she advocates for policies and programs that ensure all students have equitable opportunities to succeed regardless of background. Her engagement with the community and higher education underscores her holistic approach to fostering systemic change.
Also Read: Stacey Cole, Transforming K-12 Science Education in Spotsylvania County
Conclusion: Dr. Lorena J. Newson, MPH
Dr. Lorena J. Newson, MPH, embodies the qualities of a visionary leader dedicated to equity, education, and public health. Her career trajectory from community health strategist to academic dean illustrates her multifaceted expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering students and communities. By combining data-driven insights with a passion for inclusivity, Dr Newson continues to shape the future of education and health equity in Riverside, California and serves as a role model for leaders nationwide.
