Expanding the SDI COE Team
In 2024, the COE welcomed seven new research experts to the team. As catalysts for change, their work involves examining program equity gaps and providing professional development in labor market information (LMI) and student outcomes data to community college faculty, staff and administrators at each of the region’s 10 colleges.
Now, as we continue into 2025, the COE is excited to welcome two new team members who will strengthen and expand our research and professional development services at the San Diego & Imperial Counties Community Colleges.
As our new Associate Director, Christine Timbol Larson oversees staff, grants, research projects, and daily operations. Tasi Rodriguez, our new Regional Professional Development Manager, organizes the Faculty and Counselor Institutes, supports Career Technical Education/Career Education (CTE/CE) programs, and works closely with institutional research offices at colleges throughout the region.
Read on to get to know our new team members.
Christine Timbol Larson, Associate Director
Tell us a little about you.
After living in Grand Rapids, Michigan for 8 years it is wonderful to come back home to sunny San Diego! I have 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and higher education sectors. Prior to returning to San Diego, I served as the Vice President of Impact at First Steps Kent, a nonprofit dedicated to systems level change in early childhood.
When not at work, what do you like to spend your time on?
Eating! As I settle back in Southern California, I plan to visit all the old haunts and new restaurants, and eat everywhere with my husband, who is from the Midwest, and expand his food palette.
What do you enjoy about working in the community college system?
I have so much admiration and respect for partners across the community college system. There is so much to be done to support our students, staff, leadership, community and employers. We can easily dwell on the scarcity of resources but so far conversations lean into innovation, collaboration, partnership and identifying shared interest, which tells me that as a system we’re primed to meet anything that comes our way.
Tasi Rodriguez, Regional Professional Development Manager
Tell us a little about you.
After earning my bachelors in Sociology from Point Loma Nazarene University, I spent several years working with foster youth and adults with developmental disabilities in direct care settings before pursuing a master’s in Public Health from San Diego State University.
I have 10 years of project management experience, including eight years overseeing grant-funded, community-based public health research projects. Prior to joining the COE team, I was project manager for the California Jobs First Initiative in the Southern Border Region where I supported a high-road transition collaborative across Imperial and San Diego Counties.
When not at work, what do you like to spend your time on?
I enjoy outdoor exploration and spending time with family and friends. I love living in San Diego because I get to see my family often and there are so many beautiful places nearby that are perfect for a day trip or short weekend getaway. Some of my favorite spots for climbing, hiking or camping include Joshua Tree, the Eastern Sierras and Anza-Borrego. When I’m not playing outside, I also enjoy singing in choir and playing piano.
What do you enjoy about working in the community college system?
I’ve learned so much since joining the COE team. The passion for the region and the shared commitment to making a positive impact on students’ lives are both evident and inspiring. I feel fortunate to be part of this collective team and look forward to getting to know everyone more in 2025.