Tag Archives: #OurTimeisNow

Happy Thanksgiving 2025

Uncategorized November 29, 2025 Leave a comment

Happy Thanksgiving from Toronto.

I hope you are all enjoying a wonderful and relaxing weekend surrounded by family and friends.

I am in Toronto right now… spent Thanksgiving with my daughter. We are expecting the first snow of the season to roll in late Saturday. I’m already imagining what it will be like to wake up to a blanket of white outside the window … instantly puts you in the Christmas spirit.

I am so blessed with incredible people in my life – family, friends, colleagues.

And eternally thankful for our entire California Community Colleges family, and for all of the amazing students we are privileged to support in our mission of access, equity, and opportunity.

Here are a few fun photos from the last few weeks:

The famous Linda Vasquez selfie

Larry Galizio and the League team put on an inspiring convention.

Linda Vasquez, Sonya Christian, Larry Galizio, Rowena Tomaneng, Chris Ferguson

Good morning California.
It is November 29, 2025.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

College of the Siskiyous Holds Groundbreaking Event
for New Student Housing Facility

College of the Siskiyous is proud to announce a new student housing development aimed at addressing critical housing shortages in the Weed community. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the City of Weed, represents a major step toward supporting both student success and community recovery.

» Read more!

LYLA Conference Inspires Launch of
College of the Redwood’s Indigenous Language Institute

This year’s Live Your Language Alliance (LYLA) gathered at College of the Redwoods from August 11–14, alongside CR’s Indigenous Language Institute (CR ILI). Speakers, learners, and cultural leaders from across the United States gathered for a week dedicated to language preservation, education, and community connection. Participants engaged in hands-on learning around grammar, digital teaching tools, and online language resources, while “language time” encouraged attendees to speak in their languages, not just speak about them.

» Read more!

Nissan Donates Two All-Electric Vehicles to
El Camino College’s Automotive Program

El Camino College is proud to announce a generous donation from Nissan North America, which has provided two all-electric Nissan vehicles to the school’s automotive program. This contribution will offer students invaluable, hands-on experience with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology—preparing them for the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

» Read more!

Vibrant Villages Barstow Partners with Barstow Community College
and High Desert Second Chance to Restore Food Distribution in Barstow

Barstow Community College’s Basic Needs Center, led by Magaly Rojas, has partnered with Vibrant Villages Barstow, led by Executive Director Juan Rivera, and High Desert Second Chance to bring back and expand food distribution services for local nonprofits. Supported by IEHP Foundation, the program provides a steady supply of fresh food every Monday from 8 to 10 a.m., now reaching Fort Irwin’s military families as well.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

Come as you are: Noncredit coursework is
the hidden engine of California’s workforce

Adult education is one of California’s best avenues for helping our communities move forward, yet it doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves. These free courses allow adult learners to build skills and earn credentials without the roadblocks that can make higher education feel out of reach.

Adult education practitioners must actively reach out to individuals facing barriers such as low digital literacy, limited English, employment gaps, mental health challenges, poverty or incarceration, and draw them into our programs.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Monterey Peninsula College:

MPC’s International Student Program (ISP) recently celebrated our F-1 students in honor of International Education Week! International education expands horizons, promotes cultural exchange, and enriches our campus here at MPC. Thank you to all of our ISP students who picked MPC!

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From Chaffey College:

Chaffey celebrated its 22nd annual International Education Week through a vibrant celebration of culture and conversation! We kicked off the week with a panel discussion featuring Chaffey’s international students, faculty, and staff as they shared their educational experiences from around the world. Yesterday, we continued the celebration with live performances, cultural tables, international cuisine, and more!

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From Antelope Valley College:

Umoja’s Grateful Gathering brought students, staff, and mentors together for an afternoon of connection, culture, and delicious food Thank you to @avcumoja for continuing to create spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.

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From American River College:

American River College’s Renewable Energy Program recently received a significant visit from Heidi Sanborn, SMUD’s elected Board Member representing Ward 7 in which ARC is located, at the ARC Solar Lab on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Scheduled a month in advance, Ms. Sanborn’s visit offered invaluable insights to our students. During her time with the class, she delivered an inspiring speech and engaged with students by answering their questions about the vital future of renewable energies, particularly solar, and the job opportunities within the sector. Students described her address as highly motivating and found her perspective on the industry’s future to be extremely helpful.

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From Gavilan College:

Thank you to ASGC for a thoughtful, generous thrift event this week. The care put into collecting and sharing clothing made a real difference for students and gave hundreds of items a second life. Grateful for the heart behind this work.

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Celebrates Fall Holiday Season with Friendsgiving and Turkey Giveaway

In celebration of the Fall Holiday Season, Bakersfield College hosted two events to bring community together, play games, provide aid, and eat delicious food.

On Monday, BC’s Renegade Nexus, in partnership with the Bakersfield College Foundation, hosted a Holiday Harvest Giveaway in which they distributed more than 250 turkeys to enrolled students. Students were invited to the Renegade Pantry, showed their student IDs, and received a free turkey to share with friends and family during the holidays.

» 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

November 22, 2025

Uncategorized November 22, 2025 Comments: 4

Sacramento does do a glorious fall.  View from my office.  See if you can spot the Capitol off in the distance.

This week was a hectic week for me. Started in Sacramento with the Board of Governors meeting and wrapped up in Anaheim with the League Convention where, as State Chancellor, I got to do my third annual State of the System address.

I was happy to report that the State of the System is strong.

Here are two slides to show the growth we are seeing across our community colleges.

Overall enrollment growth puts us over 2.2 million students.

Dual enrollment grew by 10% this last year. Whoa!

Here is a picture of members from the Chancellor’s Office and the Board of Governors who attended the event.

Linda Vasquez, Bill Rawlings, Pam Haynes, Sonya Christian, Rowena Tomenang, Chris Ferguson, David O’Brien

Then back home to my boy Neo and our walks.

Good morning California.
It is November 22, 2025.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Los Angeles Valley College Awarded $657,538 NSF Grant
to Launch Cybersecurity Career Pathway

Los Angeles Valley College (LAVC) has been awarded a $657,538 grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish “A Pathway to Cybersecurity Careers in California.” This new initiative will develop a comprehensive curriculum and training program to address the urgent demand for skilled cybersecurity technicians in the state. LAVC is poised to be the first community college in California to create Cybersecurity and Network Support certificates that follows the Cybersecurity Model Curriculum for California Community Colleges and aligns with the National Institutes of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) NICE Workforce Framework. This rigorous model curriculum ensures a high-quality education that meets national standards.

» Read more!

Cerro Coso Community College Co-Hosted Sierra Cyber Summit Unites Partners to Build Tomorrow’s Cyber Workforce

The Sierra Cyber Summit, co-hosted by Cerro Coso Community College, the Griffiss Institute, and TechGrid, recently had a full weekend of innovation, teamwork, and discovery that left participants energized about the future of cybersecurity in the Eastern Sierra and beyond. Held October 24–25 at TechGrid in Ridgecrest, the two-day event welcomed students, educators, and community members to explore cybersecurity through hands-on workshops, a career networking session, and an exciting Capture-the-Flag (CTF) hackathon.

» Read more!

‘Paths to Success’ Connects Students to High School
and Skyline College CTE Pathways 

On Friday, November 7, the Dual Enrollment Team at Skyline College and the Jefferson Union High School District partnered together to host an event to help 8th-grade students from the district learn and explore Career Technical Education (CTE) opportunities.  The event is part of JUHSD’s Middle School Partnership initiative, which introduces students to high-school CTE pathways early in their educational journey and supports a smoother transition into college and career preparation.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

Noncredit training at community colleges pays off, study says

Students who take noncredit occupational education courses at community colleges are more likely to be hired for jobs and earn more than peers who didn’t complete the training, according to a study published Tuesday by Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis.

Workers who complete the training generally earn pay raises of about $2,000 a year within two years. Gains are significantly higher for students who trained for jobs in transportation, engineering technology and construction. Students who participated in longer programs, especially those exceeding 150 hours, also generally earned more, according to a press release from the American Educational Research Association.

» Read more!

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Innovations to reduce college costs

A House hearing on innovations at colleges that reduce costs examined a wide range of cutting-edge programs, such as tapping AI to cut operational costs and sharing online programs. But witnesses and several House members cautioned not to forget the importance of federal investments in efforts to improve access and support for students.

Community colleges were frequently mentioned at Tuesday’s House Education and Workforce Committee hearing, starting with testimony from the nation’s first statewide artificial intelligence initiative, housed at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) unites all community colleges and universities in the state to use AI to modernize programs, reduce duplication and expand opportunities in college and the workforce, said Kollin Napier.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Los Angeles City College:

Coffee with President Gebru

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From De Anza College:

De Anza’s Future Business Leaders of America (@CAFBLACollege) chapter took home several awards over the weekend at the State Fall Business Leadership Conference in La Jolla!

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From Mission College:

Happy International Education Week! Yesterday we celebrated our incredible international students and the global perspectives they bring to Mission at our International Party on the Plaza. Thanks to everyone who joined us!

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From Citrus College:

Citrus College recently had a very special visitor on campus! Nick Dillenburg, who is currently playing the lead in the North American tour of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” stopped by a few weeks ago to work with Citrus College students on the development of a new play.

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From Mt. San Jacinto College:

The State of the College was a success! We sincerely thank everyone for spending their morning with us last Friday and learning about how MSJC is leading the way in driving transformation for students, families, and the community

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Hosts Vet Fest 2025, Showcasing Support and Gratitude for Veterans of All Eras

Earlier this week, the Veterans Services and Programs Department at Bakersfield College hosted Vet Fest 2025. This annual event gives students, staff, and community members the opportunity to come together and celebrate veterans of all eras. With Veterans Day taking place on November 11th, Vet Fest is the perfect occasion to honor the service and sacrifice of Kern Counties’ veterans.

Attendees to this year’s Vet Fest had the opportunity to preview more than 50 resource booths, including BC services, Get Bus, Kern Health Systems, several colleges and universities, and several others. The day included live entertainment, lawn games, lunch, and an inspirational speech form Michael A. Runningwild, a Native American Veteran who served in the USMC.

» 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

California Community Colleges, your best chance – A tribute to John Beam

Uncategorized November 15, 2025 1 Comment

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.

*****

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.

*****

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.

» Read more!

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. 

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

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.

» Read more!

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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.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Coastline Community College:

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.

*****

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.

» 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

Autumn bring luster to the skies

Uncategorized November 8, 2025 Leave a comment

‘Tis the season of clouds –

As we ease more deeply into the autumn season, my mind is drawn to the beautiful skies during sunrises and sunsets.

There is a harmony in autumn, and a luster in its sky.
Percy Bysshe Shelley in “Hymn To Intellectual Beauty” –

This week I was back at the Home of the Renegades for the California Renewable Energy Lab (CREL) fall event.

It was fun seeing everyone and walking the campus. I spoke about the history of CREL and the importance of climate action in Vision 2030.

It was great seeing Karen Goh.

West LA College brought out their students to the event. Here is a photo with West LA President Jim Limbaugh and the director of their climate center Jo Tavares.

Here is the CREL gang with Norma Rojas-Mora and Ellen Morris.

Trustee Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg.

I grabbed this photo that Trustee Yovani Jimenez posted on social media.

Here is Board of Governors President Hildy Aguinaldo.

President’s panel with Jonathan Eldridge, Martha Garcia, Jim Limbaugh.

Director of CREL – Ellen Morris

Good morning California.
It is November 8, 2025.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Long Beach City College Receives $50,000 Scholarship Fund
from Western Governors University

 Western Governors University (WGU) has established a $50,000 Grow Long Beach Scholarship Fund in partnership with Long Beach City College (LBCC) to expand educational opportunities for students continuing their academic journey at WGU. The fund will provide vital support for working learners preparing for careers in high-demand industries aligned with the City of Long Beach’s Grow Long Beach initiative, which includes logistics, supply chain, healthcare, and education. 

» Read more!

Fullerton College and Anaheim Union High School District
Launch Exclusive Game Design and eSports Pathway 

Fullerton College and the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD) are proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking Game Design and eSports Pathway at Katella High School and South Junior High School, beginning the 2025–26 school year. Developed through an exclusive partnership with Fullerton College, and supported by industry leader Extron, this first-of-its-kind initiative will empower students with the technical, creative and collaborative skills needed to succeed in the rapidly growing video game and interactive media industries. 

» Read more!

Clovis Community College STEM Student Selected
to Attend Prestigious Youth Summit

Cayleigh Sitchon, a CCC STEM student and inspiring youth leader, is one of only sixty-five students across the country selected to attend the prestigious Allstate Foundation National Youth Service Summit. Cayleigh is a researcher and STEM outreach leader and also serves as the president of the Valley Health and Science Club.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

California colleges brace for food aid delays, offer assistance to students

Food assistance and basic needs programs across California’s colleges and universities braced for an influx of students on Monday in anticipation of delays to federal food benefits despite a partial last-minute reprieve.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it would pause funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beginning Monday because of the ongoing government shutdown. But after two federal judges ruled Friday that the freeze was likely unlawful, the White House said Monday it would pay half of the normal SNAP benefits. Federal officials also warned of potentially lengthy delays before November benefits reach the nearly 42 million Americans who receive the food aid.

» Read more!

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Commentary: Rural students shouldn’t have to leave home to succeed

Imperial Valley College’s LIFT the Valley initiative demonstrates how rural colleges can serve as workforce anchors. By connecting students to local jobs in lithium production, advanced manufacturing, and industrial automation, programs like this demonstrate that when education and employment are linked locally, rural students can achieve meaningful, sustainable careers without leaving home.

These place-based programs illustrate what’s possible when we design education with communities, not just for them.

To continue this momentum, California must intentionally invest in rural-serving colleges as catalysts for workforce development.

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Santiago Canyon College:

Santiago Canyon College is honoring Veterans Day this week with unique, student-led events hosted by the Veterans Resource Center. On Tuesday, President Jeannie G. Kim, Ph.D., her cabinet and campus staff experienced a taste of the field through Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), served by our student veterans. From beef stew and spaghetti to cookies and classic field drinks, the event offered insight into military life and deepened our appreciation for those who serve, especially the veterans in our SCC community working toward degrees and certificates.

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From Compton College:

This past week we celebrated Halloween and Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) here on campus! No tricks, only treats and good fun with the community. Thanks to all those that came and especially big thanks to all those who volunteered at our Trunk Or Treat event and Dia De Los Muertos Celebration, hosted by the Mecha Club! Hope to see you all for Halloween next year!

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From Cuesta College:

Promise Day 2025 was a success! Nearly 540 local high school students visited the SLO Campus today to explore areas of study, connect with faculty, and discover all the ways Cuesta College supports student success. For more than a decade, the Cuesta Promise has empowered SLO County high school graduates to pursue their dreams with two years of fee-free education. Thanks for spending the day with us, future Cougars! Don’t forget to submit your Cuesta Promise application by August 1, 2026. We can’t wait to welcome you back on campus next fall

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From Modesto Junior College:

There was something for everyone at the MJC Club Rush event held in September. New and returning students connected and explored over 30+ student-led clubs that offered informative opportunities. Joining a club is more than just meetings; it’s about discovering your passions, making lifelong friends, and shaping the student experience.

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From Glendale Community College:

Thank you to everyone who joined @gccveterans for today’s Veterans Day BBQ! The GCC community came together to honor those who have served, all while raising funds to support our military connected students.

And From the Home of the Renegades

HBCU Caravan Returns to Bakersfield College

Earlier this week, the California Community Colleges Transfer Guarantee Pathway to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caravan returned to Bakersfield College, providing an incredible opportunity for students to explore transfer options, connect directly with HBCU representatives, and learn more about academic programs available across the country.

Hosted in the Renegade Event Center on BC’s Panorama Campus, the event welcomed almost 300 attendees, including Bakersfield College students, local high school students, and peers from neighboring community colleges such as Taft College, Antelope Valley College, and College of the Canyons. 
This year’s Caravan brought together 27 HBCU representatives from 16 institutions, including Harris-Stowe State University, Lane College, Talladega College, and Stillman College, among others. The event offered a distinctive opportunity for community college students to apply on-site to participating HBCUs with support from visiting college staff, a hands-on experience that made the transfer process more accessible and approachable. 

» 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

November 1, 2025

Uncategorized November 2, 2025 1 Comment

It was a whirlwind of activity this week…. started in LA with the Vision 2030 Regional Workshop, then to Boston for a Workforce and AI convening at Harvard and wrapped up the week in Denver with a presentation at HACU and finally back home Saturday evening to watch the last game of the World Series… and what a phenomenal game and a phenomenal series.

The Chancellor’s Office team at the LA Vision 2030 Regional Workshop

Terrence Willett, Cheri Fortin, Tony Cordova, Sonya Christian, Carla Grandy, Linda Bermudez, Siria Martinez, Ebony Jeffries, Don Daves-Rougeaux

Hello Boston!

And the view from my room. You can see the Charles River off in the distance.

It was cloudy and rainy for the two days I was in Boston with the sun coming out only when I was on my way back to the airport anticipating the long tunnel built under the Boston Harbor – quite the engineering feat.

Then onto Denver. The landing and take off from Denver airport is always bumpy and it was the case this time around.

Sonya Christian, Paul Machen, Loretta Martinez Nov 1 2025

This was an annual ritual that I did with Joe Castro. Here we are in 2023 and 2024. I miss Joe.

Joe Castro, Sonya Christian Nov 1, 2024 in Denver
Joe Castro, Sonya Christian, Tito Guerrero Oct 27, 2023 in Chicago

Good morning California.
It is November 1, 2025.
A good day to be a Community College Champion

From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Mt. San Antonio College Launches Tuition-Free LVN Program

Mt. San Antonio College has  launched the state’s only tuition-free Vocational Nursing program, offered through the School of Continuing Education. By removing tuition, the program opens doors for aspiring nurses to enter the profession without incurring the costs typically associated with similar programs. The full-time program is fully accredited by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, and spans three 18-week terms and blends classroom instruction with extensive clinical training.

» Read more!

West Valley College Honored with 2025–2028
FamilyU Seal for Commitment to Student Parents

West Valley College has been named one of only four higher education institutions nationwide to receive the 2025–2028 FamilyU Seal, a prestigious national certification from Generation Hope recognizing colleges and universities that are leading the way in supporting student parents.  The FamilyU Seal celebrates institutions that go above and beyond to create family-inclusive campuses and foster cultures of belonging that empower parenting students to thrive.

» Read more! 

Santa Barbara City College Partners with Mentavi Health
to Deliver Rapid, Clinically Validated ADHD Evaluations for Students

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is adopting Mentavi Health’s Diagnostic Evaluation to provide timely, rigorous ADHD assessments for students seeking academic accommodations. The partnership enables SBCC to reach accommodation decisions faster, when appropriate, and helps students stay on course during the term’s most demanding weeks.

» Read more!

Lake Tahoe Community College Dedicates First-Ever On-Campus Student Housing

History was made at Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) as the college officially dedicated its first-ever on-campus student housing facility. This milestone moment had been more than a decade in the making. The new 100-bed residential community isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to belong. Designed to support student success and well-being, the building features semi-suite units with both single- and double-occupancy options, shared lounges and study nooks, a community kitchen, and panoramic views of the Tahoe Basin that make “home” feel like inspiration.

» Read more!

In Case You Missed It

Eight-week courses have gotten traction at community colleges in states like Virginia, Indiana and Texas, and are gathering momentum in California. Researchers last year published a paper finding that shortened courses have spread in California as educators look for ways to improve enrollment and retention following pandemic-era downturns. Almost a quarter of California community college enrollments in 2021 were in courses lasting less than 10 weeks, researchers found, up from about 15% pre-pandemic.

Colleges like Bakersfield College, Orange Coast College and Long Beach City College are among those experimenting with shorter course lengths. Similar efforts around the state are getting a boost from a project seeking to launch more shortened academic programs at California community colleges in fall 2026 and assess how well they work for students. 

» Read more!

Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Grossmont College:

When classical guitarist Fred Benedetti is not performing with the San Diego Symphony, the San Diego Opera, the American Ballet Company, the Old Globe Theatre, or across the world for the King & Queen of Malaysia, you can find him inside a Grossmont College music classroom. As a professor of music, Benedetti has been shaping the next great generation of musicians and guitar players at Grossmont College since 1986.

For his contributions and talents, Benedetti was inducted into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame in 2023 for music and education, a rare distinction honoring his role as a professor. The San Diego Music Hall of Fame called him “one of San Diego’s most influential music professors.”

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From Shasta College:

We had a great turn-out for our Spooky Spirit Day and Costume Contest! Everyone looked amazing! Way to go, Knights!

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From San Diego College of Continuing Education:

The Executive President’s Cabinet and Classified Senate came together for a fall luncheon filled with connection, gratitude, and great food! It was a wonderful time to celebrate the dedication and impact of our classified professionals who make SDCCE shine every day.

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From Norco College:

We are thrilled to celebrate the amazing awardees of the Dare to Dream Scholarship from MoC! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for this special event, including our dedicated judges and inspiring awardees. Your hard work deserves recognition!

*****

And check out this video from Cypress College as their VAPA students gain real-world experience at Knott’s Scary Farm:

And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Launches Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway
to Expand Medical Career Opportunities

Bakersfield College has announced the launch of the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway, a new initiative in collaboration with the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) and Morehouse School of Medicine that creates a streamlined, affordable path for students from Kern County to pursue careers in medicine.

Through this pathway, students will begin their journey at Bakersfield College, transfer into an AUCC institution in Atlanta, and continue on to medical school at Morehouse School of Medicine before ultimately returning home to Kern County to complete their residency.

Applications for the first cohort of Kern-AUCC Health Scholars open November 4, 2025, with the inaugural class to be announced in April 2026.

» 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

Sonya Christian's Blog