Our 2025 Rising Star Award Winner
Kevin Hsu
Senior Research and Planning Analyst, Irvine Valley College
Drawing on his background in economics and expertise in quasi-experimental models, Kevin Hsu demonstrates a widely versatile skill set across industries, including finance and public health. As Interim Senior Research and Planning Analyst, and since joining the field of institutional research in 2020, Kevin has significantly contributed to the growth and development of institutional research, particularly through his work at Irvine Valley College (IVC) and his extensive involvement in statewide initiatives.
Kevin began his journey at IVC as the Student Equity and Achievement funded analyst, where he made an immediate impact by writing the codebase that transitioned the Promise program from an opt-in to an opt-out model. This simple yet transformative change led to a dramatic increase in enrollment, growing from around 200 students in 2020 to over 1,900 students in 2025. Kevin’s ability to identify innovative solutions that improve student access and outcomes showcases his forward-thinking approach to institutional research.
Kevin has also played a key role in the development of the District Wide Strategic Plan and the 2022-2025 Student Equity Plan, contributing to IVC’s efforts to close equity gaps and improve institutional effectiveness. As acting Senior Research and Planning Analyst, he not only mentors and onboards new analysts but also continues to add to various college-wide initiatives, further solidifying his leadership in the field.
One of Kevin’s most notable projects involved collaborating with the EOPS program staff to revise key processes and implement a randomized control trial (RCT) to assess the program’s effectiveness. The RCT revealed a 272% increase in EOPS student enrollments and an estimated savings of nearly 300 staff hours in application reviews and eligibility checks. This project is just one example of Kevin’s ability to apply rigorous research methods to improve student success and institutional efficiency.
Kevin’s influence extends far beyond IVC. He is actively engaged in the statewide California Community Colleges (CCC) community, working with the Chancellor’s Office on database releases and presenting at numerous conferences, including the RP Conference, ACCCA, CSSO, and APAHE. In 2023, Kevin led the analytics team for the Near Completers: Crossing the Finish Line initiative, which earned the Outstanding Project Award at the RP Conference. This recognition highlights Kevin’s leadership and expertise in driving impactful, data-driven projects that support student success.
Additionally, Kevin is a member of the Multiple Measures and Assessment Planning (MMAP) team, where his expertise helped streamline data pulls related to state policies like AB705 and AB1705. His work on these policies is an example of his ability to engage with complex statewide issues and provide practical, data-informed solutions that benefit students and institutions.
In just five years as an institutional research professional, Kevin has made significant contributions to both IVC and the broader CCC community. His work reflects a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of how data-driven decision-making can drive institutional improvement and student success.
Kevin’s impact on IVC and the CCC system is a reflection of his ability to apply his skills across multiple sectors and make meaningful contributions to the field of institutional research and planning. With successful projects, a strong commitment to student success, and a proven ability to collaborate at the statewide level, Kevin Hsu will continue to make a lasting impact in the IRPE field and beyond.
In celebration of his hard work and dedication, we are pleased to honor Kevin with the 2025 RP Group Rising Star Award.