Wrapping up March 2026 with roses

Uncategorized March 29, 2026 Leave a comment

The season of roses has started as we wrap up March.

And beautiful sunrises –

I also wanted to share the Educate Elevate podcast episode on the Blue Economy. I’m very proud of this work being led by the California Community Colleges.

Check out this 30-minute video:

Good morning California.
It is March 28, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Congresswoman Linda Sánchez Secures $1.03 Million in Federal Funding
for Río Hondo College’s Public Safety Scenario Training Unit

Federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Linda Sánchez will allow Río Hondo College to advance the development of its Public Safety Scenario Training Unit (PSSTU), a facility designed to expand training for Police Academy cadets and public safety professionals. The $1.03 million in Community Project Funding will support the purchase of technology, equipment and modular furniture to create immersive training environments for cadets. The federal investment marks the second time Congresswoman Sánchez has secured funding for the project following a $963,000 Community Project Funding award in fiscal year 2024.

» Read more!

Irvine Valley College Foundation Receives $50,000 Gift from Irvine Company
to Strengthen Teacher Preparation Pathway

The Irvine Valley College Foundation has received a $50,000 gift from Irvine Company in support of the college’s Teacher Preparation Pathway (TPP), a collaborative initiative designed to create a clear, supportive route from community college to the teaching profession. The gift directly supports students pursuing careers in education by removing financial barriers, expanding hands-on learning opportunities, and strengthening program infrastructure. Notably, $10,000 of the donation establishes a new Teacher Preparation Funding Program, creating a sustainable source of support for future generations of IVC teaching students.

» Read more!

Citrus College Construction Program Leads State with Accreditation

The Citrus College Construction Management program has become the first community college in California to earn accreditation from the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), marking a significant milestone for construction education statewide. ACCE serves as the premier accrediting body for construction-related academic programs in the United States. It evaluates curriculum, faculty, facilities and student outcomes to ensure graduates are prepared for leadership and professional excellence in the construction industry. 

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

2025 Energy and Sustainability Award Winners Honored by California Community Colleges Board of Governors

 The California Community Colleges Board of Governors this week honored leading innovators and standout programs with the 2025 Energy and Sustainability Awards for their ongoing efforts of to achieve environmental sustainability while advancing the goals of the system’s strategic plan, Vision 2030.

Six awards were handed out at the Board of Governors meeting on Tuesday, March 24 in Sacramento. The honorees, recognized for outstanding achievements in energy and sustainability, include Riverside Community, Sonoma County Junior, and Kern Community College Districts; Shasta College; and leaders from Contra Costa Community College District and Mt. San Antonio College.

» Read more!

Here are the photos:

Kern

Santa Rosa

Contra Costa

Shasta

Mt. Sac

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Yuba College:

Day one of 2026 Weld Camp is a wrap! High school students from across the area joined us for hands-on activities showcasing what our Yuba College Manufacturing and Welding program offers. Plus, they took home a cool souvenir!

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From El Camino College:

As we close out every Women’s History Month, our campus community came together for the 29th Annual Distinguished Women Awards & Reception.

We recognize and honor the contributions these individuals have made for El Camino College and the surrounding community.

The 2026 recipients include: Cynthia Cervantes, Mia Dobbs, Dr. Edith Gutierrez, Germany Kent, Dr. Brandi Odom Lucas, Dr. Lesley Meza, Mauren Barbara O’Donnell (In Memoriam)

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From Fullerton College:

The Business and CIS Division recently hosted a successful Entrepreneurship Week, inviting students to explore how to build their own opportunities under the mentorship of entrepreneur experts. An annual event, attendees explored different activities, including workshops, networking opportunities and insightful competitions.

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From Chabot College:

Last Thursday was ROCK DA MIC! A panel and open mic event that celebrated culture and community while promoting mental wellness for all. Shoutout to the event organizers and coordinators who put together an event where students could connect and express themselves through performing arts.

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From Victor Valley College:

We want to extend a RAMFAM shoutout to the “mayor” of Victor Valley College! The one and only Robert Sewell has received a lifetime achievement award in Washington DC for his 30 years of dedicated service to student leadership at Victor Valley College! Robert serves as the long-time ASB Advisor/Public Information Officer/Marketing Director for all things in the VVC universe! Congratulations Robert!

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And check out this video promoting Cañada College’s Middle College Program:

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC’s Marketing & Public Relations Earns National Recognition

Bakersfield College’s Marketing and Public Relations (MPR) team earned national recognition at the 2025 NCMPR (National Council for Marketing and Public Relations) Paragon Awards in Washington D.C., receiving Gold in the Social Media Post/Story (Still) category. The Paragon Awards recognize outstanding achievement in design and communication at two-year community and technical colleges and are the only competition of their kind focused exclusively on marketing and public relations professionals in this sector.

The award-winning piece, ‘Caps Off, Renegades,’ offered a deeply personal glimpse into the pride, identity, and meaning students carried with them at the 2025 commencement ceremony.

» Read more!

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Remember – our greatest challenges enable us to do our greatest work.

That’s all for today.
See you next Saturday!

With much hope and joy, 

Your Chancellor,
-sonya

#OurTimeisNow
#NuestroTiempoEsAhora

2026 Sterling Silver on March 14th

Uncategorized March 22, 2026 Leave a comment

But before I jump into my week, let me start with Sterling Silver, last Saturday, March 14th. It was wonderful seeing friends and colleagues.

With Kate Pluta, Nick Strobel and Janet Tarjan:

It was great connecting with Ravi and Naina Patel. I got to know the two of them very well when we worked on the Peace Gardens at BC and the Regenerative Farm project. The won the philanthropist of the year award at this year’s Sterling Silver.

Talking about the Patels, here is a blast from the past….

In 2020 the Pease Garden was established. Here is a 10-min video where the committee introduced this project to the campus. The speakers in this video include — Sonya Christian, Krista Moreland, Emma McNellis, Naina Patel, Lisa Elzy Watson, Hansa Patel, and Neeraj Rama.

And Corny Rodriguez was recognized with the Sterling Silver Service award. A

Always happy to see Mayor Karen Goh.

Talking about Corny, here is a blast from the past…..

Check out this video celebrating Corny on his retirement:

Back to Sterling Silver. Here is a photo with Romeo Agbalog, Kay Meek & Jean Fuller:

Was so happy that Jean Fuller was able to make it. Here is throwback to when Jean was recognized with the Service award.

Here is the video of Kylie introducing Jean Fuller and her work with Early College.

And another selfie with Kate, Nick & Janet –

Thankful that Janet snapped these pictures.

Here is one with Rudy Salas.

Rudy Salas brought significant resources to Bakersfield College when he was in the Assembly. He received the 2020 Sterling Silver Service Award. Check out this blast from the past. A 3-min video.

And with Yovani Jimenez

And with Norma Rojas-Mora and Gabby Gonzalez

Now, let’s move to this week…. started in Sacramento…

Spring has sprung in Sacramento. Snapped photos of azalea on my walk back with a friend from Zocalos.

More flowers –

And calla lilies –

And dogwood in bloom –

Closed out my week in San Diego.

What’s not to love about San Diego

And at night –

And the icing on the cake – when I met up with Daisy Gonzales and we did our usual walk by the waterfront.

Then it was off to the CEO symposium. Here’s a pic with Anthony Culpepper and Rowena Tomaneng:

This week was also the Rising Scholars Program Convening.

Rising Scholars now spans 104 colleges, supports students in 147 correctional facilities, and connects them to 90 on campus programs that help them continue their education after release.

Chelsea Esquibias, senior advisor at the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, started the event with a welcome and network address.

Board of Governors Member and Former President Pamela Haynes held a fireside chat moderated by Assistant Vice Chancellor Erin Larson, with panelists Tyee Griffith, program coordinator at the Prison Education Project and Matthew Caddell, Student Government President/Student Trustee at Chaffey College.

Michael Redding, deputy cabinet secretary and senior advisor for public safety at the Office of the Governor, gave the keynote address on ‘Public Safety and Higher Education.’

Good morning California.
It is March 21, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Cloverlane Foundation Funds New “Jaws of Life”
for Allan Hancock College Fire Academy

 A generous donation is helping Allan Hancock College strengthen hands-on training for the next generation of firefighters.   The Allan Hancock College Foundation received a $25,000 donation from Cloverlane Foundation to support the purchase of a state-of-the-art “Jaws of Life” extrication system for use in the college’s fire academy, along with other essential equipment for fire academy students.

» Read more!

Rep. Juan Vargas secures additional $500K in funding
for San Diego College of Continuing Education

U.S. Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-52) has secured $500,000 in federal funding for critical utility and water infrastructure improvements at San Diego College of Continuing Education.  The investment will upgrade critical campus infrastructure, strengthening SDCCE’s ability to provide hands-on workforce training to approximately 30,000 adult learners each year.

» Read more!

Long Beach City College Opens New Building MM to Help Students Build the Future

Long Beach City College hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Trades, Technology, and Community Learning Campus to celebrate the grand opening of the new Building MM complex. The facility supports the city’s growing Space Beach sector and serves as the new home for the Architecture, Anthropology, Carpentry, Horticulture, HVAC, and Plant Science programs, preparing students for careers in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and construction industries expanding across the region.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

He was an undocumented immigrant. Now he runs LA’s community colleges

When Alberto Román was a boy growing up in the Mexican state of Durango, his father was often far from home. Most times, he’d be gone for months.

Román’s father, Javier, had a third-grade education. And when work was scarce in Mexico, he’d venture north to the United Sates and take whatever job he could find.

Román missed his father terribly, and he relished the time alone with him. When his father would return to Mexico, they’d hike to a majestic statue of the revolutionary Pancho Villa, where Román and his father could also look out at their city.

Román did not know it then but, soon, that view would become a memory. When he was eight, his father returned; but, this time, Javier took his son, his daughter, and his wife with him back to the U.S. The family settled in Rialto, in California’s Inland Empire. Suddenly, Román had a new home and new challenges to contend with.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Mission College:

Mission College’s Rising Scholars program is partnering with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office on an initiative to revitalize the Elmwood Men’s Library, supporting education, personal growth, and second chances for incarcerated students. Last week marked a major milestone as decades-old furniture was replaced and new furniture donated by Mission College was installed.

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From Ventura College:

From galaxies to black holes, Ventura College welcomed a full crowd for an inspiring two-day astronomy experience.

We honored 100 years of science at VC with stargazing, interactive space simulations, and a vibrant evening of discovery for all ages

Dr. Cameron Hummels from CalTech lectured on black holes as part of the American Astronomical Society’s Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectures Program, a nationally recognized initiative that brings leading astronomers to colleges across the country.

Thank you to the Ventura County Astronomical Society for setting up the all the telescopes for the star watching party.

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From Ohlone College:

This year’s #WomenInSTEM Dinner was one for the books! Thank you to Ohlone College MESA and our Society of Women Engineers student club for connecting women leaders in #STEM with our Renegades. Cheers to bright futures and #WomensHistoryMonth

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From Mt. San Jacinto College:

Enjoying pizza slices and conversations with the president!

And From the Home of the Renegades

Bakersfield College Beach Volleyball Makes History with First-Ever Home Matches

Bakersfield College’s beach volleyball program made history on Friday, March 6, hosting its first-ever home matches on the college’s newly constructed beach volleyball courts. The Renegades rose to the occasion, defeating Cuesta College 3-2 and Glendale 4-1 to sweep the day.

The milestone marked a significant moment for BC athletics, with the new courts giving the program a permanent home to compete and grow. The wins extended what has been a strong start to the season. BC has now won five straight and sits at 8-4 overall on the season.

All home events this season are free and open to the public.

» Follow results and see upcoming schedules!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Remember – our greatest challenges enable us to do our greatest work.

That’s all for today.
See you next Saturday!

With much hope and joy,

Your Chancellor
-sonya

#OurTimeisNow
#NuestroTiempoEsAhora

Happy Pi Day All

Uncategorized March 14, 2026 Comments: 3

Happy Pi Day
3.14
3.14159265…..

Spring is the time of beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

I started my week at the Wheelhouse Program for presidents, then headed to Sacramento for meetings.
A beautiful Sacramento sunset for you…

And then back home enjoying a walk with my boy Neo.

I wrapped up my week at the inaugural Stemapalooza at Lemoore College.

The West Hills District and Lemoore College are doing real cool things on their campus. Their enrollments are booming. Check out the picture with both the president and the chancellor of the district.

Jonathan an engineering alum from Lemoore, Gustavo Enrique the MESA advisor, Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg, President James Preston, Sonya Christian, District Chancellor Robert Pimental

This event had mostly MESA students and their advisors along with STEM faculty in attendance.

MESA began in 1970 at the University of California, Berkeley, during a time when leaders in higher education were increasingly concerned that students from many communities across California were not entering fields such as engineering, mathematics, and science at the same rates as others. The early vision of MESA was straightforward but powerful: create structured academic communities that support talented students from underserved backgrounds in preparing for STEM majors and careers.

Over the decades that followed, California made the decision to expand that idea into something much larger.  With continued support from the Legislature and multiple across administrations, MESA evolved into a coordinated effort that now connects middle schools, high schools, community colleges, and universities. Today, MESA operates through three primary components: the MESA Schools Program, the MESA Community College Program, and the MESA Engineering Program at four-year institutions.

What began as a single initiative on one campus has since grown into a nationally recognized model for expanding participation in STEM education. States across the country have looked to California’s MESA framework when designing their own STEM pipeline programs.

The event was coordinated by Jonathan Hernandez from Porterville College. It was so fun…. My heart was full as I reconnected with colleagues from the Central Valley whom I had not seen in quite some time. It felt like coming home.

This is what I saw in the room for the conference. Posters of We love Neo.

Check out this picture that Lemoore College MESA Director Gustavo Enriquez shared on his social media –

I loved the Lemoore MESA sweatshirt. Check out my wardrobe change. Thank you President James Preston. Thank you Gustavo Enrique. Thank you Jonathan Hernandez.

Good morning California.
It is March 14, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Antelope Valley College Student Leaders Meet with Congressman George Whitesides

Student leaders from Antelope Valley College’s Associated Student Organization (ASO) recently met with Congressman George Whitesides to discuss issues affecting community college students and the future of higher education. During the meeting, ASO representatives shared concerns and ideas related to artificial intelligence, expanding research opportunities for students and recent funding cuts affecting Hispanic-Serving Institutions such as AVC.

» Read more!

College of San Mateo’s MESA Program and STEM Priorities Honored by Stanford University for Community Partnership

College of San Mateo was recently honored by Stanford University with its Community Partnership Award, recognizing CSM’s Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program’s impactful collaboration with the Stanford Community College Outreach Program (CCOP) and its commitment to expanding STEM opportunities for community college students. In addition to Stanford’s recognition, MESA also received a Certificate of Recognition from California State Assemblymember Marc Berman, acknowledging the program’s regional impact and leadership in supporting community college students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

» Read more!

Southwestern College x USC: Building the Next Generation
of Community College Leaders

Through a new collaboration with the University of Southern California’s USC Rossier School of Education, Southwestern College has launched the Community College Innovation Scholars Program, a three-year, $4.2 million pilot designed to expand graduate education opportunities while strengthening leadership across California’s community college system. Beginning in fall 2026 and for the next three years, a total of 120 Southwestern College faculty and staff members can pursue master’s and doctoral degrees in education through USC Rossier.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

Cyber security lab coming to San Diego City College thanks to $1M grant

San Diego City College is leading education on cyber security in California with a new four-year bachelor’s degree in Cyber Defense and Analysis. The curriculum provides students with the skills and knowledge to protect digital infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity across most industries and government agencies.

“We must have some way to ensure the education we provide is at the same level students would get going to a traditional four-year college, and we are now a four-year college,” said David Kennemer, the program’s director.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

I loved this picture of BOG member Cirian Villavicencio and BOG student member Maria Blaze at the student March in March event:

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From San Diego Miramar College:

Our trio of aviation students is having a great first day of competition at Verticon 2026 in Atlanta, GA!

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From Norco College:

Last week, we proudly welcomed our new students during the Honors Orientation! It was an inspiring hour filled with learning and building community. We can’t wait to see how these students thrive in the #HonorsProgram!

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From Oxnard College:

Thank you to everyone who helped make our Annual 805 Industry Day a success! In partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education, we welcomed nearly 80 high school counselors from across the county for a day focused on career education and workforce pathways. This annual event connects our K–12 partners with Oxnard College’s career technical education programs, ensuring counselors are equipped to guide students toward meaningful career opportunities that meet regional workforce needs.

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From Cuesta College:

Cuesta College welcomed 320 SLO County high school students to our annual Edúcate Sí Se Puede event on Thursday. The future Cougars explored areas of study, heard from current students, and connected with campus resources as they began building their futures at Cuesta.

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Hosts Women’s History Month Kick-Off Celebration

In honor of Women’s History Month, Bakersfield College hosted a kick-off celebration this week in the Levan Center courtyard on the Panorama campus. The event featured guest speakers, a performing arts preview, the BC Cheerleaders, live Mariachi music, snacks, and more.

Dr. Stacy Pfluger, President of Bakersfield College and one of the speakers, welcomed everyone and expressed excitement for the kick-off and all the upcoming events at BC celebrating Women’s History Month. Later in the event, Trinity Matthews, current BC student and Student Life employee, shared her thoughts about the significance of Women’s History Month, “This month is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the resilient women that came before us,” she said, “and if you take away anything from today, let it be resilience. Know that you can do it – anything you set your mind to.”

» Read more!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Remember – our greatest challenges enable us to do our greatest work.

That’s all for today.
See you next Saturday!

With much hope and joy, 

Your Chancellor,
-sonya

#OurTimeisNow
#NuestroTiempoEsAhora

Our students bring us joy

Uncategorized March 7, 2026 Leave a comment

Last Friday, I caught the redeye to Toronto to spend the weekend with my daughter. This winter has been quite something. Storms seem to be sweeping across North America one after another.  Snow, wind, delays, and travel plans constantly shifting.

My daughter wasn’t feeling well, and it was very cold outside, so we stayed in. The fireplace was on, blankets were out, and we ended up binge-watching Monarch: The Legacy of Monsters on Apple TV. If you enjoy a little sci-fi and adventure, it’s a fun show.  The story moves across three generations, shifting back and forth between scenes of the grandparents when they were young and their grandchildren in the present.

I always listen to CBC when I am in Canada. Last weekend while I was listening, they announced the nominees for the 2026 Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.

One of the nominations this year was Sade. 

Here is one of my favorites:

From Toronto, I headed to Washington, DC to join our Student Senate for their inaugural federal advocacy visit. The flight to DC was delayed three hours, which, looking back, was just the beginning of the travel adventures.

Once I arrived, though, the energy from our students made it all worthwhile. The room was alive with music, dancing, and an inspiring keynote speaker. Watching our students step forward to advocate for community college students across the country was truly food for the soul.

Here I am with the keynote speaker and the President of SSCCC

Eric Mayes, Jerry Reyes, Sonya Christian

Then came the trip home. Just as our plane in DC was about to leave, it started snowing. We had already boarded and ended up sitting on the tarmac for three hours waiting to be de-iced. After that came a five-hour flight to Phoenix. By the time we landed, I had missed my connecting flight, so I spent the night in Phoenix and took the next flight the following day. Delays are part of a heavy travel schedule. I try to just settle into it and not let my nervous system get into overdrive. Try is probably the key word.

From there, it was Long Beach at 72 degrees for the A2MEND conference.

A2MEND does extraordinary work supporting the success of African American men in higher education. Being in that space with educators and students who are so deeply committed to this mission is just fantastic.

Here is a picture of folks from my Office.

Keetha Mills, Sonya Christian, Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg, Pam Haynes, Abdumalik Buul, Linda Vasquez, Rowena Tomenang, Elaine, Aiesha Lowe

Was so happy to see folks from Kern!

Here with Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg and NaTesha Johnson

And then finally… back home to my boy Neo. Check out this quick little video of him engaging with the ducks that visit our pool in the spring. Neo is very interested. The duck, on the other hand, seems completely unbothered.

And spring has arrived with flower gardens popping up in houses. I snapped these for you.

After a week of snowstorms, flights, delays, and conferences, I have to say it feels really good to wake up at home this Saturday morning and share a little bit of the week with you.

Good morning California.
It is March 7, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Barstow Community College Awarded $750,000
to Expand Rural Mental Health Services

Barstow Community College has been awarded $750,000 in federal funding to expand its Rural Mental Health Services Program and increase access to unmet mental health care needs in Barstow and surrounding rural communities. This award also builds on Barstow Community College’s recent partnership with the Inland Empire Health Plan Foundation through the Vibrant Villages Barstow initiative.

» Read more!

Carbajal Visits Ventura Collegeto
Understand Student Cost-of-living Crisis

U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal visited Ventura College on Feb. 19. Carbajal’s talk was part of a tour of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties to learn more about the student affordability crisis and other issues affecting residents. Sudents who got to speak to Carbajal were recommended by different departments across campus.

» Read more!

New Health Products Vending Machine Now Available
in Los Angeles Pierce College Library Courtyard

Pierce College has installed a new Health Products Vending Machine in the Library courtyard area, expanding convenient access to essential wellness resources for students. The machine provides a range of items supporting sexual health, personal health, and general health, offering students discreet and easy access to important supplies throughout the day. 

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

Expanding credit for prior learning

Turning prior learning, work experience, military service and other credentials into college credit can save students time and money. Despite that benefit, it’s been underutilized.

Only about 11% of adult learners, for example, have benefited from prior learning assessment (PLA) – also referred to as credit for prior learning (CPL) – according to a 2020 report from the Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL) and Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education.

There are a lot of different reasons for that, says Beth Doyle, CAEL’s chief of higher education strategy and impact: It’s not talked about or promoted broadly at the college level, and processes may be burdensome for students – and for colleges.

Though there are resources and guidance available, such as the American Council on Education’s (ACE) learner evaluations and the Competency-Based Education Network’s (CBEN) learning model, each college has to develop its own policies and processes – and get faculty and staff on board.

Doyle is seeing a positive shift, though, as colleges move toward more and better use of PLA. 

“Institutions are getting more sophisticated in how to assess,” she says.

» Read more!

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Coalinga College ‘Farm of the Future’ explores agave
as sustainable crop for West Side farmers

Water is a valuable resource for farmers across the Central Valley.

The Farm of the Future at Coalinga College is no exception.

“You know, the restrictions of water allocations are severe, and we’ve got to continue to look for ways to keep West Side farmers in agriculture, and whether that be through alternative or experimental crops,” Director of Coalinga College’s Farm of the Future Seth Yocum said.

Yocum says they are currently growing pistachios – a crop known to require a large amount of water. Because of that, many other acres of land have been left uncultivated to conserve water use.

But recently, thanks to a donation from Wolf Farms, a new crop has been added. It’s one that requires drastically less water to grow: agave.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

College of the Sequoias shared this pic of their students who attended A2MEND:

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From Woodland Community College:

Thank you to all the students who stopped by and made a sodalicious Italian sodas!

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From College of Marin:

What an unforgettable day for our campus community!

We were proud to celebrate the grand opening of the Dr. David Wain Coon Center for Student Success and it was amazing to see students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members come together for this special moment.

The CSS is a welcoming new hub that brings academic resources, student support services, wellness programs, and community spaces together in one place. Watching everyone explore the building, connect with services, and celebrate made the day truly meaningful.

A special thank you to Dr. David Wain Coon, former COM President and Superintendent, Jonathan Eldridge, current COM President and Superintendent, Dana Emerson, Assistant Superintendent and Vice President of Student Affairs, and Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California’s First Partner, for helping us mark this important milestone.

*****

And I loved these beautiful pictures of flowers on Chabot College’s campus –

Spring is slowly approaching at Chabot. The campus is blooming with fresh colors and that new-season energy we’ve all been waiting for. There’s something about walking through these flowers that makes everything feel like we’re entering the next chapter

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Hosts Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day

Recently, Bakersfield College hosted the annual Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. This exciting event brings together young women from high schools from across Kern County to learn more about engineering and STEM career fields. The day is filled with a variety of activities, including engineering panels, professional development workshops, a keynote speaker, and more.

Sara Sullivan, Program Manager of the California Renewable Energy Lab at Kern CCD and one of the event coordinators, talked about the importance of the event, “Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is important because it expands access and opportunity for young women who may not otherwise see engineering as an attainable career,” she said, “The event highlights the importance of diversity in STEM fields and aims to motivate young women to imagine themselves in technical careers.”

» Read more!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Remember – our greatest challenges enable us to do our greatest work.

That’s all for today.
See you next Saturday!

With much hope and joy, 
Your Chancellor,
-sonya

#OurTimeisNow
#NuestroTiempoEsAhora

Closing out February in beautiful San Diego 2026

Uncategorized February 28, 2026 Leave a comment

Since we are sill in the month of February, let me re-post my Valentine’s Day message from two weeks ago. Take 3 minutes to read it again and enjoy our California Community Colleges. https://sonyachristianblog.com/2026/02/14/a-love-letter-to-the-california-community-colleges-on-valentines-day-2026/

This week it was back to beautiful San Diego…. what is there not to like about San Diego.

San Diego Feb 24, 2026

We had our Board of Governors retreat at Southwestern College Crown Cove Aquatic Center on Coronado Island.

Board of Governors with Chancellor’s Office Staff

The retreat focused on three interrelated areas where investment and innovation can accelerate meaningful outcomes:

  1. Building, renewing, and modernizing our infrastructure:
    From aging facilities to climate-friendly redesigns and data/technology systems essential for equitable learning and AI-ready campuses.
  2. Deepening our work in equitable baccalaureate attainment:
    Strengthening transfer pathways and expanding community college baccalaureate opportunities so that more of our students access and complete bachelor’s degrees linked to economic mobility.
  3. Scaling internships for our students:
    Reimagining work-based, project-based, and service-based learning so that internships become a default option in every pathway, connecting students to career-relevant experience and workforce opportunities.

Here is a photo with panelists for one of the sessions.

Erin Larson, Cecelia Rios-Aguilar, Michal Kurlaender, Sonya Christian, Daisy Segovia, Terrence Willett

What a fun photo discovered by one of our Board members,

Thank you so much to Southwestern College for hosting us this week. President Mark Sanchez, you rock!

Good morning California.
It is February 28, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Pasadena City College Launches a New Facility to Help Increase
the Skilled Trades Workforce and Support Fire Recovery

Pasadena City College has broken ground on a new construction trades facility that will train students to help rebuild fire-ravaged communities. The groundbreaking for the Construction Trades Lab was held January 14, as Los Angeles County continued its commemoration of the anniversary of the Eaton and Palisades fires. In January of 2025, the fires destroyed 16,000 structures. By the time the Eaton fire was contained on January 31, 2025, it had destroyed or damaged more than 10,000 homes, businesses, schools, and places of worship. Pasadena City College is located minutes from neighborhoods devastated by the fires.

» Read more!

Diablo Valley College Students Shine at Nationwide AAICE Student Works Expo

Diablo Valley College students earned national recognition at the 2025 AAICE Student Works Expo, a nationwide competition celebrating student achievement in Mandarin language and Chinese culture. Five DVC students submitted projects, and four of those projects were selected for display on the organization’s official website.

» Read more!

Science Alive Marks 25 Years of Hands-On Learning at Gavilan College

Gavilan College is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Science Alive, a long-running program that introduces middle school students to hands-on science through interactive labs and experiments. Founded in 2001, Science Alive has served more than 5,000 students from South Santa Clara and San Benito counties. The program invites students to spend a Saturday on campus exploring science by building, testing, observing, and asking questions, often for the first time in a college lab setting. 

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In Case You Missed It

Santiago Canyon College’s new water sciences lab will
enhance classes in water technology

A new, modernized water technology classroom is in final planning stages for the Santiago Canyon College campus that will feature state-of-the-art equipment to help train students for well-paying careers in water districts throughout Orange County and beyond.

The new lab will enhance SCC’s substantial Water and Wastewater Technology program. “Water technology is one of the most popular programs in the division of business and career education,” said Denise Foley, dean of the division. “It’s one of the few and largest programs in the state that teaches water operations in treatment and distribution.”

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For many college students, picking a major takes time and revising

For many students applying to college, choosing the right major and career path may seem like the most important decision they’ve ever had to make.

Some students prioritize fields that offer high salaries, while others follow their passions. Some may be inspired by their peers’ careers or influenced by their parents’ wishes. 

But the reality is, many students do not stick to their initial choice. The American Academy of Arts and Sciences reveals that 55% of students who graduated with a humanities degree began their college education intending to major in another field. Roughly 85% of college students change their major at least once, according to the Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm EAB, formerly known as the Education Advisory Board. EAB studies also show that students who delay declaring a major graduate at a slightly higher rate than those who choose a major in their first semester. 

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Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Skyline College:

Wrapping up Black History Month with the Black Student Union’s Soul Social. We celebrated community with games, local vendors, and campus connections. BSU delivered us soul and gave it a home right here at Fireside Dining.

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From Golden West College:

GWC’s Amphitheater was filled with culture, community and celebration today as we welcomed the Year of the Horse! From the Lion & Dragon Dance and Vietnamese fashion show to hands-on activities, performances and delicious food, it was a joyful afternoon all around.

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From Imperial Valley College:

Imperial Valley College is proud to share that our Mardi Gras Parade float was honored with the Mayor’s Choice Award at the 2026 El Centro Mardi Gras Light Parade! Thank you to the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce and the City of El Centro for this special recognition. This award reflects the creativity and collaboration of IVC’s Associated Student Government (ASG) for envisioning the float, along with Student Affairs, Cheer Club, SSS Club, and the many students and team members who helped decorate and represent the College with pride. Warrior spirit was shining bright on Main Street!

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From Madera Community College:

A beautiful blanket of snow has transformed the Madera Community College Oakhurst Campus into a true winter wonderland! The late winter storm has brought stunning views and a peaceful glow to our campus.

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From Hartnell College:

the Financial Aid Office welcomed over 60 students and their families to a Cash for College Financial Aid Workshop, providing hands-on support with FAFSA and CA Dream Act applications to help students maximize their financial aid opportunities.

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC’s Renegade Motorsports Team Competes at Sonoma Raceway

On Friday, February 13th, 2026, the Bakersfield College’s Renegade Motorsports team traveled to Sonoma Raceway in Northern California to compete in the Lucky Dog Racing League’s 14-hour race weekend. Participating in competitions like this gives students the opportunity to utilize their skills in an authentic racing environment. The team arrived Friday and went straight to work. The team’s practice and qualifying session experienced a minor setback due to a batch of contaminated fuel, but they were able to work through it and complete one hour of practice time. Student drivers Jesus Frias and Aiden Lomeli were able to complete their first laps on the iconic racetrack.

The weather on Saturday morning was beautiful, and BC’s Emanuel Trujillo took the green flag at 9:00AM and drove the first two-hour stint of the race with no issues. At the first pit stop, the team refueled and serviced the car and Aiden Lomeli strapped in to drive the second stint. During his stint, Aiden noticed a mechanical issue with the car that the team was able to repair quickly. After the repairs, Jesus Frias took the wheel for his two-hour stint. Unfortunately, about halfway through his stint, he noticed an issue and brought the car into the paddock for the team to diagnose and repair. The team worked quickly to fix the issue, and Jesus was able to finish the 7-hour race on Saturday.

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Remember – our greatest challenges enable us to do our greatest work.

That’s all for today.
See you next Saturday!

With much hope and joy, 

Your Chancellor,
-sonya

#OurTimeisNow
#NuestroTiempoEsAhora

Sonya Christian's Blog