For nearly five years, David Adams has helped shape the student experience at Independence Community College in his role as Vice President for Student Affairs and Operations. His work touches nearly every corner of campus, all centered around one core mission: advancing student access, success, and completion.
As Vice President, Adams provides strategic leadership for Student Affairs and several key operational areas, including Student Life, Esports, Marketing, Maintenance and Facilities, Recruiting, and Financial Aid. He also works closely with ICC’s auxiliary units such as Housing, Food Services, the Bookstore, and Student Health. While his responsibilities span a wide range of departments, his focus remains clear—supporting students at every stage of their journey.
For Adams, the most meaningful moments at ICC are the ones that mark beginnings and endings.
“My favorite part about working at Independence Community College is being a part of meaningful moments such as New Student Orientation and graduation,” Adams shared. “I enjoy helping students feel excited and supported when they first arrive and then celebrating their hard work and growth at graduation. Those moments make the work especially meaningful.”
Throughout his career, Adams has been guided by Sanford’s Challenge and Support Theory, a philosophy that emphasizes balancing encouragement with appropriate levels of challenge to promote growth. He intentionally looks for opportunities to create that balance in his interactions with students.
“What I enjoy most about working with ICC students is the opportunity to witness, challenge, and support their personal growth and development,” he said. “Through following the guidance of this theory, I look for opportunities that unlock an appropriate amount of challenge and support to ignite best practices in overall student development. Seeing students gain confidence, discover their strengths, and progress toward their goals is incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond campus, Adams embraces adventure. In 2019, he and his husband hiked approximately 124 miles of the Camino de Santiago in Spain. They hope to return one day to continue the journey. As pilgrims say along the route: Buen Camino!
For Adams, ICC stands out because of its intentional commitment to students.
“ICC is special to me because its vision shines a light toward creating strategic opportunities for students and helping them reach their full potential,” he said. “I value being part of an institution that seeks to meet students where they are and is intentional about student success priorities.”
Whether welcoming students during orientation, celebrating them at graduation, or supporting them through daily challenges, Adams remains focused on helping every Pirate discover their potential and chart a meaningful path forward.