My introduction to you happened in the late 1990s.
I arrived in Los Angeles, a foreign graduate student, trying to understand America through textbooks and LA’s RTD routes.
And then I met you.
An institution built on virtues I could not quite comprehend.
Infinite hope. Untiring patience. Radical non-judgment. You met people where they were.
Not where they should have been. Not where someone thought they ought to be. But where they were.
You were born long before I met you in the Central Valley, where community colleges first took root in California soil. Practical. Accessible. Close to home. Built for possibility.
And then you spread.
From the Central Valley – Fresno, Bakersfield, Merced you reached into the Inland Empire – Riverside, San Bernardino out to the eastern edge of our state – the Coachella Valley, Palm Desert, Indio up the North State – Chico, Redding across the Bay – Oakland, Hayward, San José down the Central Coast – Monterey, San Luis Obispo into Los Angeles – every corner, every neighborhood in LA and all the way to the borderlands – San Diego, Imperial Valley.
Across the Sierra foothills. Along Highway 99. Down the 5 and the 101.
Into farmworker towns. Into port cities. Into rural mountain communities. Into urban corridors. Where opportunity needed a doorway you became that doorway.
You evolved.
You empowered people. You improved constantly You innovated for students. You added programs. Added pathways. Added chances.
And over three decades, I have watched you love Californians by taking action in real tangible ways.
I have seen the foster youth who carried everything they owned in a backpack walk across a commencement stage because someone at a community college refused to give up on them.
I have seen the formerly incarcerated Californian who found purpose through education, completed a certificate, earned a degree, and now gives back to their community.
I have seen the veteran, resilient, carrying both visible and invisible weight, find a Veterans Resource Center and a faculty member who said, “You belong here.”
I have seen the student with a disability navigate hallways that were once barriers and find accommodations, allies, and a future not defined by limitation but by capacity.
You do not ask for perfection. You ask for effort. You do not require pedigree. You require courage.
Over two million students a year.
Two million stories of trying again. Starting over. Leveling up.
You are accessible. You are practical. You are relentless in your belief that Californians deserve more.
On this Valentine’s Day, I say it plainly:
I love you, California Community Colleges, – for your open doors. – for your stubborn optimism. – for believing in people before they believe in themselves.
You are California at its best.
And after three decades of watching you in motion … through reform, recession, innovation, and renewal,
I am convinced of this:
If there is an institution built on hope in America,
It is you!
With gratitude, admiration, and love Your chancellor, sonya
My thoughts and prayers are with the Laney College community after the tragic death of Athletic Director and legendary football coach John Beam. The Peralta Community College District shared this beautiful tribute to his legacy.
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This morning, I found myself re-reading The Dash by Linda Ellis.
Between the date when we arrive and the date we go away, there exists a horizontal line that captures every single day.
And because these days we’re living seem to vanish in a flash, we need to make the most of that special little dash.
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A trio of sunsets for you to make three wishes –
Pause, close your eyes, and make three wishes.
Good morning California. It is November 15, 2025. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Allan Hancock Students Design Signage for Nature Preserve
Visitors to the Central Coast’s rugged coastline will soon have a new way to connect with its natural beauty, thanks to Allan Hancock College graphic design students who transformed science into art for the community. A group of nine students in the college’s art, graphic design and multimedia programs teamed up with fine arts instructor Tellef Tellefson and staff from The Nature Conservancy’s Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve, located in Lompoc, to design interpretive signage for the Jalama Campground, located adjacent to the preserve.
San Diego Mesa College Fashion Students Redefine Couture with Sustainable Designs at Laguna Art Museum
On November 1, 2025, four San Diego Mesa College Fashion Design students — Tiara Daring, Edwin Alba, Liliia Derkach, and Vanessa Felix — were selected to participate in the Laguna Art Museum’s (LAM) Upcycled Couture Fashion Show. The annual runway event combines community, creativity, and environmental awareness. This year’s theme, Restoring the Future, challenged students to create one-of-a-kind sustainable couture pieces that highlight the many ways local partners are making a difference in the community and beyond.
Commentary: Community colleges are where American opportunity becomes reality
Headlines often focus on the challenges facing higher education — rising costs, shifting workforce demands and questions about value. Yet at a time when confidence in institutions is waning, many California community colleges are quietly earning trust the old-fashioned way: by delivering on their promises.
From my vantage point as chancellor of the State Center Community College District (SCCCD), serving California’s vast Central Valley, I see that story firsthand. Community colleges are not only adapting — they are thriving — expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the communities they serve.
Community colleges again lead enrollment increases
Undergraduate enrollments for this fall are up again, with community colleges again seeing the largest rate increase, according to preliminary reporting to the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) Research Center.
Overall undergraduate enrollment is up 2.4% so far, with increases in all sectors, though community colleges are leading with a 4.0% boost, compared to 1.9% at public four-year institutions and 0.9% at private, nonprofit four-year institutions. And, once again this fall, certificates appear to be a driving force — a 6.6% increase, compared to a 3.1% bump for associate degrees and 1.2% for bachelor’s degrees.
Thank you to Santiago High School for visiting our Newport Campus for MESA Day! It was inspiring to see so many bright and eager students exploring their future in higher education.
From Río Hondo College:
El Monte UHSD honored Río Hondo College’s free Math Academy for its 81% summer completion rate! Thank you to Superintendent Dr. Zuniga and the Board for recognizing our team—and to Dean Yolanda Emerson for her leadership.
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From Hartnell College:
Today, our #HartnellCollege community gathered in honor of Native American Heritage Month. Ohlone/Costanoan–Esselen Nation Tribal Chairperson Louise J. Miranda Ramirez shared a presentation on the history and living legacy of the Esselen people, weaving together stories of land and cultural continuity. The event continued with a jewelry-making workshop, inviting participants to connect through hands-on creation and community. A heartfelt thank you to our Hartnell Ethnic Studies team and ASHC for making this event possible!
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From Mendocino College:
The Basic Needs Produce Wednesday service was successfully provided at the Lake Center. We extend our gratitude to the Lake Center staff for their valuable support and collaboration in facilitating this service.
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From Golden West College:
Psych Day was a day full of games, an internship and resource fair, a career panel and an amazing keynote speaker, Dr. James Garcia! Thank you to the Psychology faculty who helped coordinate the event.
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And check out Irvine Valley College’s 40th anniversary documentary!
And From the Home of the Renegades
Bakersfield College Holds First-Generation College Student Day
Last week, Bakersfield College gathered students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the inaugural First-Generation College Student Day, a moment to recognize the determination of those who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. With more than 40 percent of BC students identifying as first-generation, the event highlighted the strength and resilience that shape our campus community.
Spring is in bloom! A friend shared this pic with me, with a text –
“Flowering Plum Trees are in bloom. When there’s a slight breeze the flower petals sometimes fall off as if there are snow flakes.”
I started my week in San Francisco, presenting at the CISOA conference on Monday – the annual conference for the Chief Technology Officers of the California Community Colleges.
Monday afternoon, I dropped by for the student March in March event. Here are some photos.
The fabulous Linda Vasquez selfie.
With Board of Governors Member Cirian Villavicencio
With Ivan Hernandez – SSCCC President
On Thursday, I spoke at the A2MEND Conference with Board of Governors member Pam Haynes.
Chris Ferguson, Rowena Tomenang, Sonya Christian, Ebony Jeffries
Chris Ferguson, Rowena Tomenang, Sonya Christian, Don Daves-Rougeaux
And with a group of students from Southwestern College:
Good morning California. It is March 8, 2025. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
The Human Library® Returns to Cuesta College
Cuesta College, in collaboration with the Cuesta College Library, Cuesta College Student Health Services, and San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health, is proud to announce the return of The Human Library® to its San Luis Obispo campus on March 5.
Originating in Denmark over two decades ago, The Human Library® is a global movement designed to challenge stereotypes and biases through open and meaningful conversations. The event creates a safe and inclusive space where topics are discussed openly between the human books and their readers, providing an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and foster deeper understanding.
Peralta CCD Hosts Event With House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries
On February 21, 2025, the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Center in partnership with the Peralta Community College District hosted a forum dedicated to civic engagement, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, and citizens to discuss the vital importance of defending democratic principles in today’s challenging political climate.
Mt. SAC Turf Teams recently mowed the competition at the annual Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) contest, taking first, second and third place and beating out major universities. Three teams of four competed in the Student Challenge, a two-hour exam testing knowledge of the sports turf industry, covered subjects as diverse as Turfgrass Identification, Selection and Morphology, Soil Management, Soil Fertility, Water Management, Drainage, Turfgrass Mathematics, Pest Identification and Management, and both turf and non-turf Sports Field Management.
Mendocino College Announces the Purchase of Property for Future Student Housing
Mendocino College is pleased to announce the purchase of a property at the corner of Perkins and Main Streets in downtown Ukiah, marking the first phase of a multi-year initiative to develop future student housing. This project aims to increase the availability of affordable housing for students and support the local community.
Victor Valley College’s inaugural Community Education — Paint Night Experience in VVC Performing Arts Center Black Box Room was a sold-out success! It was incredible to watch our lead instructor, Theresa Shellcroft, guide and inspire participants as they brought their unique Desert Sunset masterpieces to life.
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From San Diego College of Continuing Education:
What an amazing afternoon we had celebrating Women’s History Month! We came together to share inspiring affirmations, create uplifting messages, and take home a beautiful flower. Thank you to everyone who joined us in spreading joy and empowerment!
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From Madera Community College:
On February 25, we held another CAMP Seminar for the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) 2024-25 Cohort at Madera Community College! This event offered a valuable opportunity to engage with CAMP students. They received essential information regarding academic advising, CSU/UC transfer requirements, financial aid, health services, psychological services, and tutoring resources available on campus.
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From Imperial Valley College:
Step right up! We’re all set inside the Preble Building at the California Mid-Winter Fair, ready to hear your big ideas for Imperial Valley College’s future.
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From Rio Hondo College:
This weekend, we hosted the LA Regional Science Olympiad Tournament, where Division B & C teams from across LA County showcased their STEM skills! Congrats to those advancing to the State Tournament in April! Thanks to Ryan Wong & all the volunteers!
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And check out this video from Evergreen Valley College –
McTate Stroman, a staff member at Evergreen Valley College, whose hometown of Altadena was devastated by the Los Angeles Fires, wrote and recited this poem. McTate also curated an art exhibit in his hometown.
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC Students Travel to Arizona for Theatre Arts Festival
Recently, twenty-seven BC Theatre students traveled to Mesa, Arizona to participate in the Region 7/Region 8 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (ACTF) at Mesa Community College. This Festival is a celebration of the work in Theatre Arts that college students in these regions have done throughout the year, as well as a place to audition and compete for scholarships, gain knowledge and skills through workshops, see plays, and network with students from other schools.
Three BC students – Riss Halbwachs, Savanna Lux, and Jesse Magdaleno – and their partners advanced to the Semi-Final Round of the Irene Ryan auditions, which is a huge accomplishment! Out of hundreds of preliminary participants, only sixty make it to the Semi-Final Round. Then, Jesse Magdaleno and his partner Nathan Armendariz made it to the Final Round of the audition– the top fifteen participants of the entire festival. This is the first time a BC student has made it to the Final Round of the Irene Ryans.
This past week, I attended the Women’s Equality Day event hosted by the League of Women Voters, the American Association of University Women and Delta Kappa Gamma in Kern County. Thank you Janet Tarjan for all of your efforts in making this happen.
Board of Governors President Amy Costa keynoted the event. Her speech was inspirational and brought in her personal experience while quoting stats on the disparities that still exist.
So appreciated the community college presidents coming out to support members of the Board of Governors.
President Prima Monarrez, President Rafe Trickey, Sonya Christian, President Sean Hancock, Trustee Yovani Jimenez
I enjoyed seeing Prima in her new role as President of Porterville College vibrant and engaged. It was wonderful getting to meet the new president of Taft, Dr. Rafe Trickey. Rafe brought his mother Loretta Schield and I remembered her from my past when I was president of BC.
Loretta Schield and Rafe Trickey. Photo obtained from Mayor Karen Goh’s Facebook post
Here is a little something about Loretta and her husband Mike who passed in 2020.
BAKERSPATCH? I got a nice email the other day from local resident Mike Schield, who describes himself as a Bay Area transplant who has lived here for 13 years and (thank you Mike) a regular reader of Bakersfield Observed and The Californian. In his words:
“It’s been most interesting to read all the kibitzing re Bako, B-town etc. Loretta (his wife) has been encouraging me to put in my two bits worth, so here goes. Frequently in discussion with my buddies for lo these many years, I refer to our community as Bakerspatch. I know it’s a little corny but Loretta and I both think that one of the beauties of our country is that it’s okay to be a little corny! Helps grease the slides! Also when I’m addressing local mail, I use Bfld. Try pronouncing that one! Keep up the great work, Richard.”
Thank you Sean Hancock for driving all the way from Cerro Coso… you came the longest distance… it was so great to see you.
And Yovani Jimenez is just one happy person who brightens the day with his presence.
The picture below has only a fraction of those who had come out to the event. So enjoyed seeing old friends from Bakersfield College. Relationships… the joy of life!
Amy Costa, Sonya Christian, Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg with folks from Bakersfield College
BOG Member Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg, Sonya Christian, Mary Helen Barro, BOG President Amy Costa, Janet Tarjan
After the event, Amy and I, along with Jean Fuller, did a brief tour of the Bakersfield College campus with the new President Jerry Fliger. The campus looks great! Loved seeing the trees planted during the centennial celebrations growing taller. Enjoyed the draught resistant flowering plants.
Senator Emeritus Jean Fuller, BOG Member Amy Costa, President Jerry Fliger
Yovani snapped a fun selfie
The following day, we spent a couple of hours with the West Hills Community College District folks at Lemoore College. The photo was taken at the food pantry.
From left to right: Chancellor Robert Pimental, President Carla Tweed (Coalinga College), Nan Gomez- Heitzeberg, Amy Costa, President Jim Preston (Lemoore College), employees who work at the pantry, and Ivan a student wrestler who also works at the pantry.
California Community Colleges We take care of our students, our communities, and our planet.
Good morning California. It is August 31, 2024. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Coalition For Responsible Community Development and LATTC Receive $20 Million Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant
The Coalition for Responsible Community Development (CRCD) and Los Angeles Trade-Technical College (LATTC) and were announced as one of 21 selected applicants of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants. The Community Change Grants program is designed to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity.
Mendocino College among partners to receive $18 Million grant to address Pacific Coast ocean restoration
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced the awards that are recommended for funding under the Transformational Habitat Restoration & Coastal Resilience grant program, with Mendocino College to be among the grantees.
The Nature Conservancy California has been recommended to receive $18 million over three years to launch the Pacific Coast Ocean Restoration Initiative, a comprehensive, collaborative statewide effort aimed at restoring and recovering degraded marine ecosystems across California.
Pasadena City College Joins Forces With Three Nonprofits to Combat Youth Homelessness
On July 16, First Place for Youth, Heritage Housing Partners, and Pasadena City College announced a groundbreaking partnership to provide housing for transitional age youth in Pasadena. The collaboration has transformed two existing structures at 2322 E. Foothill Blvd. into six 375-square-foot studio apartment units for young adults transitioning out of foster care. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held earlier in August.
Two Bakersfield women honored at state’s Latina Empresaria Luncheon
The 45th edition of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce convention wrapped up last weekend in downtown Bakersfield. Bakersfield College professor Olivia Garcia was inducted to the Latina Empresaria Hall of Fame. Also honored at the luncheon was Norma Rojas-Mora, receiving the Pioneer Empresaria of the Year Award.
Two wonderful women, colleagues and friends. Not surprised that they received this recognition.
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C3 Converge 2024 – The Community College Climate Summit
Hosted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and the Foundation for California Community Colleges, C3CONVERGE 2024 is a pivotal summit that will inspire innovation, build resilience, and drive climate action through education. The summit unites educators, industry experts, and policymakers in a dynamic exchange of ideas, offering unparalleled networking, cutting-edge insights, and empowering educational strategies. C3CONVERGE 2024 workshops and discussions will deliver actionable outcomes and bring into focus a nationwide community of practice dedicated to sustainability and climate resilience.
Led by the California Community College Chancellor’s Office in partnership with Foothill-De Anza Community College District and hosted at De Anza College, this event brings together the largest system of higher education in the nation. The California Community Colleges is uniquely positioned to address the challenges and opportunities of our new AI-informed reality.
This landmark event kicks off with a reception on 9/9, followed by a day of groundbreaking discussions on 9/10 at De Anza College in Cupertino.
Yesterday we welcomed our Early College students for their first day of fall! The group of juniors from North Torrance High School is the 1st cohort and attended a variety of classes.
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From College of the Desert:
College of the Desert’s Welcome Day was a success! Incoming and current students had the opportunity to attend a resource fair, tour campus, get COD swag and learn about college resources to start the year off right.
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From Los Angeles Pierce College:
A warm welcome to Pierce International Students! Did you know that our International Program hosts students representing a whopping 46 countries around the world?! We strive to be an inclusive and diverse campus and this is one way we do it!
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From Shasta College:
Hey Knights! We’re out here at Day on the Green for Welcome Week with fun games, prizes, music by DJ Bucky, and a dunk tank!
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC’s Renegade Room Features Quality Cuisine and Training
Marcia Overturf, one of the chefs inside the Renegade Room at Bakersfield College, describes the Renegade Room in just three words: “A hidden gem.” This single description, one that she has heard countless times directly from customers, perfectly encapsulates the college restaurant’s impeccable service, delicious cuisine, and charming atmosphere.
Contrary to popular belief, the Renegade Room is open to everyone—students, staff, faculty, and even the public! As Chef Overturf emphasizes, “It is a restaurant for the community [where] everyone is welcome; it’s a place to try different cuisines—something you may have never tried before at a very good price.”
On Thursday, I started my position as Chancellor of the California Community Colleges. I snapped this photo from my office … see the top of the State Capitol, the dome with the crowning ornament. You definitely know you are in Sacramento.
Check out this 12-minute video of my remarks at the Board of Governor’s meeting on Feb 23rd when they made the appointment.
Some highlights from my week:
Attended the Campaign for College Opportunity’s Excellence in Placement ceremony where Porterville College was one of the award recipients. President Claudia Habib snapped a selfie with colleagues from Kern CCD – Trustees Yovani Jimenez and Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg, Deputy Chancellor Zav Dadabhoy.
Members of the Board of Governors Hildy Aguinaldo, Paul MedinaMichele Siqueros, Sonya Christian, Luke Wood
A record-breaking 56 campuses were honored for implementing landmark placement policy AB 705. Congratulations to all of the well-deserving award winners!
And, a few photos from my first day at the state Chancellor’s Office.
Daisy Gonzales, Sonya Christian, June 1, 2023Larry Galizeo, Paul Feist, Daisy Gonzales, Joe Wyse, Sonya Christian, Lizette Navarette, Lynn Neault, Pam Luster
After serving in the Navy, Doc Todd began pursuing a career in music and started using his artistic platform to raise awareness about veterans mental health. His song “Not Alone” was released in 2017 and resonated with many veterans and their families, as it delves into the struggles faced by those dealing with PTSD and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support.
Good morning California. It is June 3, 2023. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges Our Time is Now!
Building a College Going Identity in Rural California
Mendocino College offers on-ground dual enrollment transfer and career education pathways with 18 different high schools ranging in size from 1,600 to just 10, including a California Exemplary Dual Enrollment Awardee. With equitable access and support at the core, Mendocino College’s dual enrollment has grown 108% in the last 5 years. Mendocino College appreciates the opportunity to truly partner with K-12 & CSU colleagues and looks forward to further developing robust student services support with the development of the Dual Enrollment Ambassador program. Pictured is one of their annual College and Career Days, where they welcome over 500 high school students to learn about support services, majors and career opportunities.
Check out this video:
Cerritos College Recognized for Continuing Leadership in Sustainability
Cerritos College recently received the Green Award at the 2023 Foundation for California Community Colleges (FCCC)/CollegeBuys Purchasing Conference. Presented by ODP Business Solutions (formerly Office Depot), the award recognized the Cerritos College Purchasing Department’s commitment to sustainability for its preference towards purchasing eco-friendly products, the most out of all the California community colleges during 2022. For the full story, check out https://bit.ly/3pMERPB.
Southwestern College’s Focus on Equity
Southwestern College celebrates its position as an award-winning, nationally recognized, binational community college focused on belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion. SWC took the lead on developing AB-91 that would allow low-income students who reside in Tijuana to attend San Diego area community colleges, receive an exemption from the nonresident tuition fee, and have access to college. In addition, Southwestern College is working with High School partners to expand dual enrollment pathways, including developing an Early/Middle College High School at our San Ysidro Higher Education Center.
The award-winning film and production program at Santa Monica College is your path to the bright lights of Hollywood- and so much more. Learn how these California community college students are sharing their powerful stories with the world.
Long Beach City College Commits to Dual Enrollment with Equity
Long Beach City College offers Early College courses at Browning High School.
Long Beach City College (LBCC) is committed to expanding dual enrollment through an equity lens, ensuring access and success for disproportionately impacted (DI) students. In the 2022-23 academic year, LBCC offered college courses for alternative high schools and partnered with learning communities such as the Students Success Initiatives (SSI) and Male Academy to engage underrepresented students in dual enrollment. Through the Early College @ Browning model with Long Beach Unified School District, a total of 22 high school students will graduate this year with both a high school diploma and an associate degree for transfer in hospitality.
Seven New Bachelor’s Degrees to be Offered at CA Community Colleges
The California Community Colleges has taken another step forward in giving Californians an opportunity to earn a four-year degree from a community college by approving seven new bachelor’s degree programs. This brings to the total number of bachelor’s degrees that are now offered or will soon be offered at a community college to 31.
The new programs available as a part of a bill signed by Governor Newsom in 2021 are:
“The 15th Annual @CalCommColleges Purchasing Conference hosted by @FoundationCCC College Buys in San Diego celebrated Procurement Professional of the Year award winners Kate Carillo of @LosRiosColleges & April Marin of @canyons.“
Foundation CCC Event in San Diego
And From the Home of the Renegades…
BC to Host Drum Corps International Tour
Bakersfield College’s Golden Empire Drum & Bugle Corps announced today the details of the 7th annual presentation of RESOUND, a drum and bugle tour event bringing together some of the country’s best corps, presented by Drum Corps International. The event will take place July 11 at 7 PM inside Bakersfield College’s Memorial Stadium and is open to the public.
The Workforce & Economic Mobility Blog blog shares approaches to workforce and economic development, with a goal of supporting economic mobility for our community while staying committed to the health of our people and the health of our environment.
In the Bhambi & Christian blog, Dr. Brijesh Bhambi join together joined together with the goal of facilitating healing and conversation in our community.
