ACC Staff Spotlight: Diana Lee
It's time to get to know Diana Lee, ACC's Career Forward Program Manager. Find out how Diana is Moving Mountains at ACC!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi There! I am the first person in my family born in Colorado. I graduated from the University of Colorado Denver with a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and from Sunway University Malaysia with a Master of Arts in Creative Arts and Media. I have always loved working in higher education with first year experiences, career services, international students, and experiential learning. I am honored to be a part of the Puma team collaborating with ACC students and community partners.
What is your job at ACC?
Career Forward Program Manager
What do you do at ACC (explain your role)?
In my role I get to work with individuals who are currently a part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training (E&T) program, known as Employment First (EF). Career Forward provides individuals with student support from me. This helps each participant get tailored support they need to start and finish a certificate or degree so they can get the job they want in Colorado’s workforce.
How long have you been at ACC?
I have been at ACC for about 2 years now.
Are you a part of any clubs / organizations / committees at ACC or outside of ACC? What are they and why did you choose them?
Yes, I’m involved in a few organizations both at ACC and outside of it. At ACC, I’m part of the APIDA Affinity group. I chose to join because I’m passionate about supporting students from all backgrounds and creating a welcoming, inclusive space on campus. I also found my community within this group.
Outside of ACC, I’m involved with various organizations for women in leadership such as AAWCC I joined because it aligns with my career goals and gives me a chance to build connections with others who care about community impact.
Being involved in these groups helps me grow professionally and personally — and it’s a great way to stay engaged in causes I care about.
Why did you choose ACC?
I choose ACC because of the community and for the chance to move mountains. At ACC I am able to have my own agency and ability to see my projects through. At ACC, everyone has been so supportive and encouraged me to purse the things I am passionate about.
What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been the ability to establish strong partnerships across departments, launching an effective intake and support process, and connecting SNAP-eligible students to critical resources that directly support their academic and career goals. I’m especially proud of how we've created a welcoming, student-centered experience that not only helps students navigate barriers but empowers them to pursue education and workforce opportunities with confidence. I love working with our county and state partners to helps students succeed. I also enjoy working with our non-profit organizations to support our community members. Seeing students re-engage in learning and move forward in their career pathways has been the most rewarding part of the work.
What is your mountain (ultimate goal)?
My main goal is to support students and community members, in building their confidence, pursuing education on their own terms, and turning their dreams into reality. I wouldn’t be where I am today without access to education and the incredible support of people and organizations that believed in me along the way.
What's your favorite ACC memory so far?
Hmm..I have so many fond memories at ACC it's hard to choose just one. From talking with my team, the "four core" in admissions when I first started at ACC to now celebrating all the little wins in our Economic Mobility Workforce Innovation. One common constant is having a supportive team that believes in supporting students.
Tell us a fun fact about you / Something people may be surprised to find out about you.
I once held a 9-pound rat in my arms while visiting Cambodia! These incredible rats are trained to sniff out landmines. Even though I’m terrified of rats—along with spiders, snakes, wasps, and more—this experience taught me that some things in life can be both scary and surprisingly beautiful.
Top 5 Vacation Spots
- Sabah Malaysia - The people, food, beaches, fruit, and hiking are incredible here! If you get the chance, I highly recommend doing the sunrise hike/camp on Mount KK.
- New Zealand - I preferred the North Island but both islands are great! I loved learning about flora/fauna, history, and Māori.
- Ninh Binh, Vietnam - Rent a bike and ride around the rice fields, it is like no other experience in the world!
- San Migel, El Salvador - Eat all the pupusas, visit the national library BINAES.
- Strawberry Hot Springs, Colorado - One of my favorite hot springs in Colorado.
What is your advice to future and current students at ACC?
I resonate with the beginning part of New York Public Radio’s mission statement, “to make the mind more curious, the heart more open, and the spirit more joyful.” I tend to gravitate towards experiences and choices that support growth. My advice to future and current students is to trust the process, seek opportunities that resonate with you.
Do you know a student, staff member, faculty member, instructor, or alumni that you would like to nominate for an ACC Spotlight? jessica [dot] horning [at] arapahoe [dot] edu (Let us know!) Or if you would like to be spotlighted on the ACC blog, complete our Spotlight form.