Happy Mother’s Day! I hope you are all enjoying a beautiful and restful weekend.
I wanted to share this post form the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum about the history of Mother’s Day.
“After Ann Jarvis’ death, her daughter, Anna Jarvis (1864–1948), set out to honor her mother’s legacy by establishing a national Mothers’ Day on the second Sunday in May, the day her mother had died. Anna, who never married or had children of her own, did not focus the holiday on peace activism but on the idea of honoring one’s own mother. She chose white carnations as an emblem and urged people to write heartfelt letters of gratitude to their mothers (in Anna Jarvis’ eyes, sending a pre-printed card didn’t count). Anna succeeded in her quest for official recognition, and President Wilson issued a proclamation of the first national Mother’s Day just before the start of World War I in 1914. ”
Though the younger Anna Jarvis didn’t intend for the holiday to be a day of florists and greeting cards – I think however we show appreciation to those strong women in our lives is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday.
I love you mom.
Good morning California.
It is May 9, 2026.
A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!
Río Hondo College Earns Clean California Community Designation
Río Hondo College has been recognized with a Clean California Community Designation, becoming the first community college in California to earn this prestigious statewide honor. The Clean California Community Designation program is part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s $1.2 billion Clean California program, launched in 2021 by Caltrans to clean up, reclaim, transform and beautify public spaces statewide. To qualify, the College met 10 of 15 criteria, including litter assessments, highway cleanups and community education efforts.
Los Angeles Mission College Breaks Ground on Net-Positive Plant Facilities Building
Los Angeles Mission College broke ground Friday, April 3, on a new Plant Facilities Warehouse and Shop, a 27,820-square-foot building that will serve as the central hub for the College’s maintenance and operations. As the District’s first net-positive facility, the building is designed to generate more energy than it consumes. A system of 574 solar PV panels will produce up to 252,560 kW of renewable power—more than 115% of the facility’s average daily energy use—and will be supported by a Battery Energy Storage System to enhance efficiency and resiliency.
Barbershop Talk Builds Community, Conversation & Connection at Laney College
Laney College recently hosted a powerful and energizing Barbershop Talk, bringing together more than 40 students for an evening centered on connection, conversation, and community. Held in the Cosmetology Building, the event featured free haircuts provided by professional barbers, adding to the welcoming, familiar atmosphere that helped spark open and honest conversations.
Chaffey College Rising Scholars Alum Emerges from Prison as a Celebrated Artist, Mentor
Kenneth Webb was just 19-years-old when a judge sentenced him to life in prison. Webb, now 35 and a New York Times-featured artist, survived the horrors of prison violence, and turned his dark fate into a light that shines on himself and others. He credits Chaffey College with giving him the confidence to envision a life beyond prison walls.
In Case You Missed It
Mendocino College launches first-ever Native American language course
Mendocino College has reached a historic milestone with the launch of its first Native American language course, marking the first time in the college’s history that a Native language is being offered as a standalone, credit-bearing class.
The new Northern Pomo language course, taught by Lori Laiwa Thomas, Department Chair of Ethnic Studies, is currently the only opportunity in the region for adult learners to study Northern Pomo. Interest has been strong, with 41 students enrolled, including local tribal leaders, grandmothers, siblings, Mendocino College faculty, and community members of all ages. This intergenerational participation highlights the language’s vibrancy and its essential role in maintaining community continuity.
*****
Community College Daily: Creating bridges, not barriers
About 40% of all U.S. undergraduate students attend two-year colleges, according to the Community College Research Center at Columbia University. Most students come through the door with the intent to transfer, but find their path blocked by credit loss, financial obstacles, or an aggravating lack of reliable information.
Despite surveys indicating that nearly 80% of community college learners aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, only about one-third transfer to a four-year institution. And less than half of students who do transfer earn a bachelor’s within six years of initial enrollment.
Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media
I enjoyed Fresno City College’s nod to Star Wars Day this week:
“Do. Or do not. There is no try. But at Fresno City College, we show up, we learn & we grow stronger each semester.” Yoda Jedi Grand Master #maythe4th
*****
From Cabrillo College:
Yesterday marked a meaningful milestone for Cabrillo College! Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting of the new Watsonville Wellness Center & Food Pantry.
This space is now open to support students’ well-being and success. Connecting them with essential resources like food, housing, transportation, technology, and holistic wellness services.
Missed it? Stop by and check it out at the Watsonville Center, Building B!
*****
From Evergreen Valley College:
Our Evergreen community hosted its annual Wellness Fair, which included Hip-Hop artist Jeff Turner, community booths, pizza, paletas and of course, you can’t go wrong with puppies!!!
*****
From Gavilan College:
We were honored to welcome Luis Valdez to campus for a community meet and greet and screening of American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez. It was an incredible opportunity for our students, employees, and community members to hear directly from one of the most influential voices in Chicano theater and film.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Luis Valdez for his generosity, presence, and lifelong contributions to storytelling, culture, and the arts. We are also deeply grateful to the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival and the Watsonville Film Festival for partnering with Gavilan College to make this event possible.
*****
And check out this video tour of Cypress College’s community garden:
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC Library Welcomes Miracle Mutts as Part of De-Stress Week
The Bakersfield College Library hosted a series of events as part of their De-Stress Week. The goal is to help students take a break from their busy schedules and finals preparation to enjoy some down time and reduce stress.
On Wednesday, the Library invited Miracle Mutts to the Panorama Campus for a time of playful interaction with their therapy dogs. Several students stopped by the peace garden outside the library to spend some quality time with the furry, friendly companions. Each dog was happy to share affection with all the participants, including giving hugs and playing. Overall, it was a fun time of connection with the Miracle Mutts, while disconnecting from the busyness of the week.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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
