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
It was Board of Governors week, and we had a few especially exciting topics.
First, the CCC Chancellor’s Office and AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on advancing climate action, sustainability, and workforce development opportunities within California’s growing ‘blue economy.’
Here is a fun celebratory picture after the signing
Avin Sharma, Carla Grandy, Sonya Christian, Terry Tamminen, Hildy Aguinaldo, Tony Cordova, Derrick Kirk, Sandra Sanchez, Bill Rawlings
Terry Tamminen signing the MOU
I am so excited to see what great things will come of this amazing partnership.
Check out the opinion piece – The emerging California job industry that is AI-proof, published in the Sacramento Bee
With 840 miles of coastline and the nation’s most active port complex, California is uniquely positioned to lead this revolution and share its model with coastal communities around the world seeking both good careers and a sustainable future. The blue economy is projected to reach $3 trillion globally by 2030, driven by the expansion of offshore renewable energy, sustainable aquaculture, marine carbon removal, coastal restoration and maritime innovation. These sectors require skilled, trained workers who can operate vessels, manage hatcheries, install offshore infrastructure, grow sustainable seaweed crops, maintain marine robotics and make critical decisions in real time, where wind, waves, weather and ecosystems intersect.
Also, congratulations to College of the Canyons – their Rising Scholars Program was recognized as this year’s Exemplary Program Award winner.
College of the Canyon’s Rising Scholars program was launched in 2016 and has served more than 7,290 justice-impacted students since its inception.
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And as we take time to remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this weekend, I am reminded of his “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” written on April 16, 1963. In particular, I am drawn to this quote –
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”
Good morning California. It is January 17, 2026. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Mt. San Jacinto College’s First Commercial Driver’s License Cohort Celebrates Strong Completion and Workforce Impact
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) is proud to celebrate the successful completion of its first Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training cohort, a new workforce-focused program preparing adult learners for high-demand careers in commercial truck driving. MSJC’s CDL program offers comprehensive, hands-on preparation and testing support, covering vehicle safety, pre-trip inspections, road operation, and exam readiness—ensuring graduates are prepared for both certification and employment.
Compton Community Health Professions Partnership Receives $1.78 Million Grant from The Broad Foundation
The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation has awarded $1.78 million to support the continued implementation of the Compton Community Health Professions Partnership (CCHPP) over the next three years. Established in 2024, CCHPP is a collaborative initiative designed to address the critical shortage of qualified healthcare professionals in Los Angeles County and improve the overall health and well-being of community members through education and increased access to trained healthcare professionals.
The grant will fund key positions essential to CCHPP’s success, including a Research Analyst at Compton College, an Administrator at Compton Unified School District, a Program Partnership Analyst at CSU Dominguez Hills, and a Program Manager at Charles Drew University. These roles will provide critical coordination and support for expanding work-based learning and increasing access to health career pathways for the Compton community, including those who are first-generation, low-income, Black, or Latino students.
Reedley College Earns National Recognition for Excellence in Agriculture
The National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) named Reedley College the Outstanding Postsecondary Agriculture Program Award winner in Region 1 for 2025, which covers the Western United States (California, Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington & Wyoming).
SisterWeb Partners with City College of San Francisco to Launch Credited Community Doula Training Course
In a groundbreaking move to expand equitable access to pregnancy, labor, and postpartum support—and to increase workforce development opportunities for Black community members—SisterWeb has partnered with City College of San Francisco (CCSF) to offer the Blossoming Birth Community Doula Training Course (HLTH 210, Community Birth Worker/Doula Education). This three-unit credit course is the first of its kind in the Bay Area.
EdSource Commentary: New California AI laws that matter to you in 2026
As we head into 2026, it already feels clear that 2025 will be remembered as a turning point: the year artificial intelligence (AI) became a regular part of daily life. ChatGPT is now as ubiquitous as Google, Waymo cars are a familiar sight on big city streets, and distinguishing between real and AI-generated images or videos is no longer straightforward.
Every sector, whether entertainment, finance, health care and beyond, is grappling with the implications. Education is no exception.
LA Times: Auto shop class is thriving. Community college students basically fix your car for free
Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offers the largest community college auto repair program in the region, turning out graduates ready to work at dealership service centers, independent shops and the fleet departments of municipalities, among other areas.
The college has offered the training for decades, and its Automotive and Related Technology program has evolved with industry changes — including the advent of fuel injection, airbags and the rise of electric vehicles.
As the rising cost of four-year universities has led many to question the value of higher education, training for high-demand trades has been growing. An American Staffing Assn. survey conducted by the Harris Poll and released in June found that 33% of U.S. adults would recommend to high school seniors that they attend vocational or trade school.
Day 2 of IN THE HEIGHTS rehearsals- After an energetic night of plunking out parts for the AMAZING Lin Manuel Miranda music in this play, the cast continues their bonding and growing friendships as they come together for a first cast picture! This is an exciting collaboration between the Theatre Arts, Music and Dance programs and a full-court press for the PAC on the Moorpark College campus. IN THE HEIGHTS opens March 12th and runs through March 29th and promises to be one of the biggest and most energetic productions to come to our main stage in some time. 2026 @ Moorpark College is starting with celebration and fireworks!
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Santa Ana College is celebrating the grand re-opening of their Main Campus Entrance:
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From Chaffey College:
The wind didn’t stop us from enjoying Unity in Community today! Thank you to everyone who joined us.
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From Merced College:
Hoops & Hello’s was a success! Thank you to everyone who came out today to meet our Men’s & Women’s Basketball teams and show some Blue Devil love to our student-athletes!
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From Cerritos College:
When @cerritoscollegepres is away, the real big dog comes out to play. Okay, she’s little, but we’re betting Delta is speedier than Dr. Fierro on his scooter! Shoutout to Professor @crystallovetere for stopping by before the spring semester with her pup.
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And check out this video of the Santa Barbara City College Trombone Quartet playing “Auld Lang Syne.”
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC Athletics Hosts Sports Media Day for Spring 2026
This week, Bakersfield College Athletics hosted their Sports Media Day for the Spring 2026 semester. Local news outlets, students, staff, and the community were all invited to learn more about the teams and athletes that would be competing throughout the semester. The event included players and coaches from men’s baseball, women’s softball, men’s and women’s tennis, track and field, women’s wrestling, swimming, and more.
Representatives and players from each team addressed attendees, and discussed goals for their upcoming seasons, preparation strategies, team chemistry, goals, and a variety of other topics. Marc Gomez, Head Coach of the BC Women’s Tennis team, shared excitement about the prospect of their upcoming season. “We have some girls who are returning from last year’s state championship finals team,” he said, “and we’re looking forward to building on that success.”
This week the Board of Governors headed to the NOCE Anaheim Campus. I love having the opportunity to visit our campuses!
And look who we met – Lindon, NOCE’s first-ever Facility Dog! NOCE does a great job, with innovative ways to keep students, staff and faculty healthy and reduce stress.
We had a wonderful lunch at Cypress Bistro, Cypress College’s student-run bistro, located on the Anaheim campus.
It was a fabulous visit.
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My daughter sent me this beautiful Bessie video. I thought I would share it with you.
Bessie six years old. Forever young.
Good morning California. It is September 20, 2025. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Laney College Program Builds Bridge to Union Careers for Students
In a bold step toward expanding access to union careers, Laney College is offering students a direct pathway into high-demand construction trades through a new pre-apprenticeship program. Developed in partnership with the Alameda County Building Trades Council (ACBTC) and the Construction Trades Workforce Initiative (CTWI), the program is already transforming lives and strengthening ties between education and labor.
Barstow Community College and IEHP Foundation Launch a Three-Year, Community-Driven Health Initiative in Barstow
Barstow Community College (BCC) is proud to announce a new partnership with IEHP Foundation to launch Vibrant Villages, a community-driven health improvement initiative in Barstow through a three-year investment of over $600,000. The college will partner with IEHP Foundation to lead a collaborative initiative aimed at improving health and wellness in the region by working with Barstow community members to identify the critical health priorities for students and all residents of Barstow.
Landmark $9.2M State Investment in Merced AgTech Alliance Accelerates Central Valley Innovation and Economic Growth
Ahistorically underserved region is set for transformation as Merced and California’s Central Valley secure a record $9.2 million California Jobs First investment—the state’s largest agtech award to date. The Merced AgTech Alliance, led by the Community Foundation of Merced County, Merced College, UC Merced, and the Reservoir, will launch immediate, shovel-ready projects to create more than 3,000 high-quality jobs, support over 100 agtech startups, and provide 250 internships for underserved populations.
Transfer Project Update: from CCC ‘demo’ to national stage at CCA
The demonstration status that the Central Valley Transfer Project was conferred by California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian in 2023 has been elevated with the inclusion of the project into the CCC “Vision 2030,” the system announced recently.
Simultaneously, the Transfer Project became formalized when the California State Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom approved state funding for all colleges to align with the “Program Pathways Mapper” software platform that is the Transfer Project’s central feature.
Now, CVHEC announces that its team will present the Transfer Project at the Complete College America national conference later this fall along with the Central Valley Math Bridge Program presented by College Bridge.
Clovis Community College Puts Industry 4.0 Into The Hands Of Students & Teachers
Next to the robotic arms, the off-the-shelf miniature smart homes may not appear to be a key part of Clovis Community College’s Automation, Robotics & Mechatronics lab, but this unassuming hardware is providing students and instructors alike with a unique opportunity to build industry-grade automation applications.
Located in Fresno, California, Clovis Community College is well-regarded for its high transfer rate to four-year institutions. Now, by incorporating Ignition into its curriculum, Clovis is giving students in its Automation, Robotics & Mechatronics program the tools to develop a multifaceted skillset suited to both future higher-learning endeavors and local industry.
Yesterday, we were honored to welcome our community to the rededication of Napa Valley College’s Japanese Tea Garden. First established in 1981 as a gift from our sister city, Iwanuma, Japan, the garden has long been a place of friendship, reflection, and cultural connection.
Thanks to the dedication of alumni and community members, the garden has been lovingly restored through NVC’s Cultural Spaces Initiative. During the ceremony, we witnessed traditional blessings, offered incense, and walked together through the beautifully renewed space. We are grateful to all who joined us in celebrating this special place—a lasting symbol of cultural exchange and community at NVC.
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From Mission College:
We were so happy to see everyone at the Pop Over to Counseling event! It was nice seeing students connecting with our counselors and sharing fun moments yesterday.
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From El Camino College:
Shout out to the Transfer Center for putting together a terrific University Fair! Reps from over 50 colleges and universities were on campus to connect with our Warriors for their next chapter after ECC.
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From San Joaquin Delta College Superintendent/President Dr. Lisa Aguilera Lawrenson:
Happy Latinx Heritage Month! Was reminded once again of Delta’s incredible diversity at our Pachanga Presente flag parade this week
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And check out this video from San Diego Mesa College:
An Exhibit Highlighting African American Women’s Clothing from 1890 to 1963. Curated by Kenneth Green.
And From the Home of the Renegades
Umoja Students Share Stories from Their Study Abroad Opportunity in Egypt
The Umoja program at Bakersfield College recently hosted a discussion panel featuring six students who participated in a study abroad opportunity in Egypt during the Summer. This incredible trip included visits to the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Temple of Karnak, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and more.
Several BC students, staff, and administrators gathered in CC 231, eager to hear amazing stories from the panelists. Dr. Paula Parks, Coordinator of the Umoja ASTEP community at BC, welcomed attendees and expressed excitement that the students had the opportunity to share their experiences in Egypt.
Happy Saturday from Manzanita, Oregon. I have to say it’s exactly what I needed after the hot days in the central valley.
The skies have been overcast – which is perfect. That soft gray light, the cool air, highs around 65, lows dipping into the mid-50s. it’s great sweatshirt weather.
Started the morning with a slice of marionberry coffee cake from Manzanita News and Espresso, a local café. Walked through the little shops in town…lots of handmade stuff, a couple of galleries, and of course, salt water taffy everywhere. That seems to be the universal language of every coastal town I have been to.
The drive on Highway 26 from PDX to the coast was beautiful. Huge trees, and everything is just green. Layers and layers of green.
Here is a photo that I snapped for you this morning.
Good morning California. It is July 19, 2025. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Hartnell College Students Perform Original Play at Prestigious BorderLight Theatre Festival in Cleveland
A group of nine Hartnell College students and two faculty members is heading to Cleveland, Ohio, to present their original production, Get with the Times, Jane! at the acclaimed BorderLight Theatre Festival, an international showcase known for celebrating boundary-pushing, socially engaged, and independent theatre.
Río Hondo College Awarded $20,000 Grant for LEGACIE+ Male Success Initiatives
California State University Dominguez Hills, on behalf of Toro Auxiliary Partners, has awarded Río Hondo College a $20,000 grant to support the college’s LEGACIE+ Male Success Initiatives program, aimed at improving the academic and social outcomes of men of color.
City College of San Francisco Engineering Club Races to Victory at Statewide Solar Regatta
The City College of San Francisco Engineering Club has once again shown remarkable ingenuity and team collaboration by winning the 2025 Sacramento Municipal Utility District’s (SMUD) California Solar Regatta, held on May 3, 2025, at the Rancho Seco Recreation Area. The CCSF Engineering Club has now won the SMUD Regatta Cup in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2025, making the college one of the most decorated in the event’s history.
Mother, Daughter Overcame the Odds to Graduate from Merced College With Honors
We asked Karen Navarro-Estrada and Moriah Cortez what message they could send to people who, like them, weren’t great students growing up, or even to anyone reading about this mother-daughter team that defied expectations at Merced College.
They said the same thing: “If I can do this, anyone can.”
Navarro-Estrada, 52, is mother to Cortez, 27, and they both graduated with honors from Merced College on May 23.
Both Navarro-Estrada and Cortez started in the Merced College Online program. Mom chose to study Psychology, and daughter chose to study Administration of Justice.
They also, as Navarro-Estrada says, “broke generational curses.”
El Camino’s architecture students showcased their spring designs for their final presentations last month. The June event was host to dynamic environmental designs with low ecological impact for locations in and around the South Bay.
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From Fresno City College:
@scccd & @downtownfresno commemorated the opening of the newly installed downtown Mural thanks to the work of Fresno City College faculty & local artist, @love_danieldemeza & the contributions of Fresno City College student artists.
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From Compton College:
Spectrum News Los Angeles did a story on Compton College’s One Meal Per Day Program! Find out how this program is helping our students and staff for their daily needs:
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC Hosts Project HireUp’s Summer 2025 Graduation
Bakersfield College and the CityServe Educational Collaborative hosted a special graduation ceremony to celebrate the participants of Cohort #15 of Project HireUp
Project HireUp aims to decrease homelessness in the community through a creative and innovative partnership that supports students currently experiencing housing insecurity or other setbacks. Project HireUp and CityServe Educational Collaborative will continue to host three cohorts a year – Spring, Summer, and Fall, with a capacity of thirty students per cohort.
Just wrapped up Board week…. Since March is Women’s History Month we have started wearing white at the March meeting….
Here is a fun photo from last year’s March Board of Governors.
At the meeting, we honored three faculty with the prestigious 2024-25 Gerald C. HAyward awards for Excellence in Education
History Instructor Stacey Marie Svilich of Feather River College, Math Professor Leila Safaralian of MiraCosta College, and Business Professor Denise Bushnell of Sierra College were honored at the March 25 Board of Governors meeting in Sacramento.
Stacey Marie SvilichLeila SafaralianDenise Bushnell
The Hayward Award for Excellence in Education program, established in 1989 and named in honor of former California Community College Chancellor Gerald C. Hayward, are presented annually to celebrate outstanding community college faculty members for their commitment to their students, college and profession.
It is so nice to be able to celebrate our amazing faculty.
After the BOG meeting, I headed to UCLA to present at the Blue Economy Intersegmental conference. Our community colleges are doing great work in this space. 15 community colleges are collaborating with AltaSea to develop the Blue Economy Climate Action Pathways (BECAP) certification program, with new curriculum and programs to fill the next generation of jobs focused on the ocean. The curriculum includes Regenerative Aquaculture, Ocean Renewable Energy & Clean Air, Blue Tech & Underwater Robotics, and Ecosystems Conservation and Restoration.
The picture below is with three of the five climate fellows – from left top right: Holly Bailey-Hoffman, myself, Carla Grandy, Tonya Huff, and our Vice Chancellor for Workforce Anthony Cordova.
It is always great to see Dr. Ellen Morris at climate events.
Headed back home towards the end of the week to my boy Neo.
We also had feathered visitors in the backyard. Check out the 19-sec video below.
Spring is the best time in Bakersfield.
Snapped pictures of beautiful flowers in the neighborhoods and parks on my walks with Neo –
A talented gardener must live in this house…
Good morning California. It is March 29, 2025. A good day to be a Community College Champion
From California Community Colleges. Our Time is Now!
Merced College’s Innovative Ag Program Gains National Attention
Merced College’s new Agricultural Systems certificate program has received national attention, recently being featured in a national CBS News segment highlighting its innovative approach to career education. The program, which uses a competency-based education (CBE) model, allows students to progress at their own pace by demonstrating mastery in specific skills, preparing them for in-demand jobs in the agricultural industry.
West Valley-Mission District Launches First-in-Nation Universal Free Meals Program
West Valley-Mission Community College District (WVMCCD) has approved the first universal free meal program at a U.S. community college—a historic initiative that will guarantee every in-person student at West Valley College and Mission College at least one free, nutritious meal each school day. Launching in Fall 2025, the program will also offer expanded support for high-need students. By investing $2.5 million annually, the District is making a long-term commitment to eradicating student hunger and ensuring that no learner has to choose between paying for textbooks or affording lunch.
Sierra College President Receives Statewide Award for Distinguished Community College Leadership
Sierra College Superintendent/President Willy Duncan has been honored with the Harry Buttimer Distinguished Administrator Award by the Association of California Community College Administrators (ACCCA) for transformational community college leadership and significant contributions to the local community, economy, workforce, and equitable access to higher education.
Orange Coast College Culinary Team Wins Western Regional Competition
Orange Coast College culinary arts students won the 2025 American Culinary Federation’s Western Regional Student Team Competition in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 15. By earning the highest point value, OCC’s Hot Food Team will represent the western region in the national championship. For the competition, the Hot Food Team was tasked with creating a four-course menu showcasing regional flavors and ingredients. They worked closely with OCC’s Horticulture Department and Marine Science Department to harvest tilapia and aquaponic lettuces used in their competition dishes.
EdSource: At community colleges, online classes remain popular years after pandemic
More than 40% of community college classes remain online statewide as of this year, about double what it was before the pandemic, and a much higher rate of remote education than exists at the state’s four-year universities. That includes hybrid classes, which mix online and some required in-person instruction. Some colleges also offer HyFlex courses, which give students the option of attending online or in person. The vast majority of the system’s online classes, however, are taught fully online and asynchronously.
A huge thank you to everyone who came out to the 25th Bach to Blues Concert! We had an incredible time celebrating 25 years of music. Your energy and support made the event truly special. All proceeds from the event went to support the Gavilan College Music Program, helping us to continue to foster the next generation of musicians!
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From Citrus College:
Thank you to everyone who attended our 110th Anniversary Gala, “The Magic of Citrus,” on Saturday, March 22! Hosted by the Citrus College Foundation, the event raised funds to increase scholarship opportunities, enhance academic programs and enrich the learning environment.
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From Modesto Junior College:
Let’s get social! Each semester Associated Students of Modesto Junior College hosts Club Rush, an event for students to learn about and join campus clubs of all kinds. This semester brought outside games, music, food, face paintings and 17 club booths ranging in interests from the arts to the sciences. Club Rush is the perfect event for incoming MJC students looking to make friends and explore their academic interests.
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And check out this video from San Diego City College about their recent Professional Learning Center Grand Opening:
And From the Home of the Renegades
BC Hosts Women in Leadership Discussion Panel
This week, the Bakersfield College Student Government Association (BCSGA) hosted Campus Stories: Voices of Female Unconventional Leaders, an inspiring event held at the Renegade Event Center. As part of a series of events celebrating Women’s History Month, the discussion panel featured six BC faculty, staff, and students and was moderated by Olivia Garcia, Professor of History at BC.
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.
