Frameworks
Two models for equity-centered change
Dr. Hester has developed stage-based frameworks for both educational equity and institutional AI adoption — turning complex change into a clear, actionable pathway.
Noncredit-to-Credit Alignment Lab
A recognized model for equity through alignment
The Noncredit-to-Credit Alignment Lab is a stage-based framework, developed by Education Strategy Group, for moving learners from short-term, noncredit training into credit-bearing pathways and credentials. Dr. Hester co-led its implementation at the San Diego College of Continuing Education, work that earned a 2024 RP Group Honorable Mention Project award and was featured nationally through the Association of Community College Trustees and Education Strategy Group.
View the 2024 RP Group Honorable Mention Project award → · Read “A More Unified Community College: Lessons from the Noncredit and Credit Alignment Lab” (ACCT & ESG) → · Learn more about the framework (Education Strategy Group) →
01
Noncredit EntryLow-barrier on-ramp
02
AlignmentMap skills to credit
03
Credit TransitionArticulated pathway
04
Credential & MobilityDegree & economic mobility
Dr. Hester on the Noncredit-to-Credit Alignment Lab · Education Strategy Group & San Diego College of Continuing Education.
The AI Readiness Pathway
From resistance to responsible AI leadership
A 7-stage model Dr. Hester developed to help institutions understand where faculty, staff, and students really are in their relationship with AI — and what it takes to move them forward, responsibly. First presented at the CLOSE IT Summit (Santa Fe, NM, May 2026) with co-presenter Donnell P. Layne, Director of the STEM Innovation Center & Makerspace and AI Fellow at Moreno Valley College.
STAGE 0
ResistantAvoids AI
STAGE 1
CuriousWilling to listen
STAGE 2
SkepticalProve it
STAGE 3
Cautiously OptimisticNot confident yet
STAGE 4
Early AdopterWants more
STAGE 5
AI PractitionerGuides others
STAGE 6
Systems LeaderRedesigns the institution
Resistant
Against AI — avoids, rejects, or actively challenges AI use. Fear, identity, and historical distrust are the core drivers.
Curious
Willing to listen — observes, attends sessions, asks cautious questions. Has not yet used AI intentionally.
Skeptical
Prove it — questions value, accuracy, and relevance. Questions are theoretical, not yet experiential.
Cautiously Optimistic
This works, but I’m not confident yet — has used AI several times. Use is inconsistent; the pace of change feels overwhelming.
Early Adopter
I use AI regularly and want more — daily use, actively explores tools, experiments broadly across tasks.
AI Practitioner
AI is essential — and must be used responsibly. A trusted expert who guides others and builds institutional systems.
Systems Leader
AI transformation requires redesigning the institution, not just the individual — policy, curriculum, culture, and governance.
Grounded in ethical AI. Dr. Hester applies the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office HUMANS framework — Human-Centered, Unbiased, Mindful, Accountable, Necessary, Secure — as the ethical foundation for every stage of this pathway.
Recognition
2024 RP Group Honorable Mention Project
For the Noncredit-to-Credit Alignment Lab — a framework to equity for noncredit students, recognized nationally as a model other institutions can adapt. View award →
Curious how this framework could apply to your institution?
Dr. Hester is available for advisory engagements and speaking on equity-centered systems change.
Start a Conversation