A Journey Shaped by Mentorship and Service
For Samaiyah Jones Scott, education was never a straight path. It was a journey shaped by mentorship, opportunity, and a deep sense of service. From being a standout student in Kansas City to being selected for the prestigious Mellon Fellowship, her path was guided by those who believed in her potential. Today, as dean of student development and enrollment management at Metropolitan Community College–Penn Valley, she continues to inspire and empower students.
Raised in Kansas City and a proud graduate of Lincoln College Preparatory Academy, Scott’s connection to education runs deep. She credits her KCPS roots with pride, believing that public schools have a powerful and lasting impact on students. Now, at MCC–Penn Valley, she leads efforts to redefine what success in higher education looks like. She focuses on accessibility, affordability, and workforce alignment, challenging long-standing stigmas around community colleges.
Scott's mission is clear: to make education an attainable, transformative reality for every student. Whether helping first-generation college students, expanding career and technical education pathways, or bridging gaps between K–12 schools and college campuses, she works tirelessly to ensure students have the support they need to succeed.
The Path to Education Leadership
Scott’s journey into education began when she attended a historically Black college in Augusta, Georgia. There, a faculty member introduced her to the Mellon Fellowship Program, which seeks to increase the number of Black students entering higher education as professors. Selected among 30 students nationwide in 2003, this experience set her on a trajectory toward a career in higher education.
Her passion for education grew from her upbringing in Kansas City. She attended Lincoln Prep from sixth grade through 12th grade, where she was exposed to impactful educators. Teachers like Dr. May Washington, who emphasized relevant reading materials such as Beloved, played a significant role in shaping her academic journey.
Lincoln Prep has a rich history of academic excellence, especially for African-Americans. It once offered associate degrees during segregation, highlighting its long-standing tradition of educational achievement. As a Blue Ribbon school, it continues to serve as a model for academic success in the metro area.
Servant Leadership and Educational Vision
Scott’s passion for education stems from her upbringing in a family that valued servant leadership. Her parents were active in their community, and she was involved in church and youth groups. This background naturally led her to pursue a career in education, where she could give back and help others achieve their goals.
She recalls how, even in elementary school, she took it upon herself to help peers who struggled with math. This early experience of mentoring others solidified her belief that education is not just about knowledge, but also about service and empowerment.
At Penn Valley, her role as dean involves working with students from recruitment to graduation. She collaborates with K-12 partners and community organizations to ensure students are well-prepared for higher education. By communicating the value of community colleges, she helps dismantle the stigma that these institutions are only for students who haven’t succeeded academically.
Redefining Success in Higher Education
Community colleges offer a range of benefits, including affordability, shorter training programs, and access to high-paying jobs in fields like HVAC and computer-integrated machining. Scott emphasizes that these options are ideal for students who want to avoid debt while gaining valuable skills.
She believes that education extends beyond the classroom. At Penn Valley, students have access to career services, counseling, and leadership opportunities. These resources help students develop soft skills that are essential in the workforce, such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
Challenging Stigma and Encouraging Diversity
The stigma surrounding community colleges often dates back to the idea that four-year institutions are the best option for high-achieving students. However, Scott argues that this perception is outdated and harmful. She works to show that community colleges can provide quality education and opportunities for all students, regardless of their background.
She also advocates for a more progressive view of education, emphasizing that not every student needs a four-year degree. Instead, she encourages students to explore different paths based on their interests and career goals.
Enrollment Trends and Future Goals
Since joining Penn Valley three years ago, Scott has seen a steady increase in enrollment. The campus has recovered from the decline caused by the pandemic and continues to grow. The rising population of students of color and international students has helped maintain strong enrollment numbers.
One of the biggest challenges Scott faces is managing the diverse needs of students and partners. From middle college programs to literacy initiatives, each group requires tailored support. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to ensuring every student receives excellent service and opportunities for growth.
Looking Ahead
Scott envisions a future where no student falls through the cracks. She wants to improve the consistency of service across all programs and encourage more project-based learning opportunities. These experiences help students prepare for the workforce and gain practical skills.
For those interested in learning more about the programs at Penn Valley, she recommends visiting mcckc.edu. Prospective students and educators can explore the campus, see facilities like the virtual hospital and Advanced Technical Skills Institute, and learn about the various career pathways available.