Tag Archives: Shasta College

Developing intelligence plus character

“We must remember that intelligence is not enough.
Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.
The complete education gives one not only power of concentration,
but worthy objectives upon which to concentrate.”

Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke these words in a speech he gave as a student at Morehouse College.

On Monday, we will remember King’s legacy as the nation recognizes MLK Day for the 39th year. President Ronald Reagan signed MLK Day into law in 1983, and it was first observed three years later, in 1986.

California Community Colleges developing intelligence plus character building both the power of concentration plus worthy objectives upon which to concentrate.

Yesterday evening (TGIF) I relaxed with dinner and a movie – A Real Pain. The movie follows American Jewish cousins David and Benji, portrayed by Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin, as they journey to Poland to explore their late grandmother’s heritage and confront the lingering shadows of the Holocaust. Culkin won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Benji a character who is both infuriating and endearing.
Jesse Eisenberg acted, wrote and directed the movie … pretty remarkable. I have always enjoyed the way Eisenberg sees the nuances in every day life.

Good morning California.
It is January 18, 2024.
A good day to be a Community College Champion



From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

 Lake Tahoe Community College Secures $8.6M
for Tahoe’s First Public Safety Training Complex

Lake Tahoe Community College has officially secured the final funding to build the Tahoe Basin’s first Public Safety Training Complex. An $8.6 million grant from the California Community Colleges Board of Governors, approved on January 14, 2025, paves the way for this transformative project. This project marks a significant step forward in enhancing the region’s emergency response capabilities and workforce training in fire, forestry, and emergency medical services.

» Read more!


Coalinga, Diablo Valley Colleges Honored for
Expanding Free, Open-Source Textbooks Programs

(From L to R: Chancellor Sonya Christian, ASCCC President Cheryl Aschenbach, Coalinga OER Librarian Heather M. Evans, Board President Hildegarde B. Aguinaldo, Board Vice President Bill Rawlings, Deputy Chancellor Rowena M. Tomaneng)
(From L to R: Chancellor Sonya Christian, ASCCC President Cheryl Aschenbach, DVC Academic Senate President John Freytag, DVC Dean Anne Kingsley, DVC Dept. Chair Lindsey Shively, Board President Hildegarde B. Aguinaldo, Deputy Chancellor Rowena M. Tomaneng)

Coalinga College and Diablo Valley College have been honored by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors with 2024-25 Exemplary Program Awards for their outstanding efforts in expanding free, open-source textbooks and instructional materials for students. The Exemplary Program Award was established in 1991 by the Board of Governors and the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to recognize, support and embrace exceptional community college programs.

» Read more!


Riverside City College Rising Scholars Program Expands Funding to $600K to Support Justice-Impacted Youth

Riverside City College (RCC) is receiving a significant boost to its ongoing efforts to support justice-impacted youth, thanks to a $300,000 grant extension from the California Wellness Foundation (Cal Wellness). The amendment to the original 2021 grant brings the total funding to $600,000, allowing the college to expand its Rising Scholars program and continue its mission to assist young people involved in the juvenile justice system. 

» Read more!


African Diaspora Educational Summit Transforms Fullerton College

Fullerton College recently sent a select few faculty and staff to attend the “Colonization to Sovereignty” African Diaspora Education Summit in Ghana, Africa. The summit highlighted the importance of African Centered Education (ACE) and planning between the North Orange County Community College District faculty, classified staff and students who identify as part of the African Diaspora.

» Read more!



In Case You Missed It

California Community Colleges Board of Governors Reaffirms Commitment
to Climate Action and Sustainability

The California Community Colleges Board of Governors has updated its Climate Action and Sustainability Goals as the system continues to work to empower institutions to act on bold climate commitments and to create innovative climate solutions.

The updated 2025 Climate Action and Sustainability Goals, presented at the Board of Governors meeting Tuesday in Sacramento, prioritizes measurable progress across critical areas such as greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, green building standards, energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, food systems, sustainable procurement, and transportation. The goals build on the Climate Action and Sustainability Framework from 2021, that set ambitious energy reduction goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the 73 California community college districts. The new, enhanced targets align with California’s statewide climate initiatives and the California Community Colleges’ strategic plan, Vision 2030.

» Read more!

*****

It’s FLEX day at PC! Time to get excited for our students to start Spring semester! Thank you to KernCCD Chancellor Dr. Steven Bloomberg for getting us off to a great start!

*****

From Cañada College:

This week on Upper Lawn was all about joy, connection, and support as we welcomed our Colts back to campus.
The sunshine and good vibes made it the perfect start to the semester, and we loved seeing everyone connect with the people and resources they can trust.
Let’s keep this momentum going—tackle this semester with confidence, stay connected, and remember, you’ve got a whole community here rooting for you.
Let’s make it a great one!

*****

From Grossmont College:

Grossmont College art students spent the afternoon restoring a rainbow mural at La Mesa Dale Elementary. This 60-foot mural was first created by Grossmont College art students in 2021. In this class, students learn about the cultural history of mural painting and community impact of public art while applying hands-on skills.

*****

And check out these beautiful pics from Shasta College:

If you’re here early on campus sometime, take a moment to watch the sunrise. We promise it’s worth it


And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Excited to Welcome Back Students for Spring 2025 Semester

The spring semester is starting, and Bakersfield College is excited to welcome students back to campus for the Spring 2025 Semester! The official first day of instruction is Saturday, January 18th, for weekend courses, and Tuesday, January 21st, for weekday courses. The first week of the semester will feature several “Welcome Week” events and activities that aim to provide new and returning students an opportunity to connect with fellow Renegades, explore different programs, and get acclimated to campus life.

» 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

Relationships ….. the joy of life

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.”

Source: Bakersfield Observed archives. http://www.bakersfieldobserved.com/2010_01_24_archive.html

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

Enjoyed catching up with Mayor Karen Goh.

Karen Goh, Sonya Christian, Kimberly Schmidt, 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.  

» Read more!


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.

» Read more!


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.

» Read more!



In Case You Missed It

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.

» Read more!

Two wonderful women, colleagues and friends.  Not surprised that they received this recognition.

*****

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.

Check it out September 17-18 in Sacramento.

» Learn more & Register!

*****

Futures Summit 2024

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.

» Learn more & Register!


Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From El Camino College:

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.

*****

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.

*****

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!

*****

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.”

» 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

July 27th and 28th, 2024 – a special weekend

The Opening Ceremony for this year’s Olympic Games in Paris was spectacular. An hours-long display featuring multiple genres of music and dance, athletes traveling down the Seine in boats, a one-of-a-kind hot air balloon Olympic cauldron, all culminating in a breathtaking comeback performance by Celine Dion.

If you missed the ceremony, check out NBC Sports’ YouTube page for clips – including this short section of Celine Dion’s song from the Eiffel Tower.

*****

This country hip-hop by Shaboozey has been stuck in my head – “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”.

Listen to it three times, and trust me – it will be stuck in your head as well.

Spending the July 27th weekend at the beach and what a view as I work on my blog this morning

Blogging Saturday morning. Beach and Neo. #LoveLife

Good morning California.
It is July 27, 2024.
A good day to be a Community College Champion



From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

California Community Colleges Recognize East Los Angeles and Palo Verde Colleges for Advancing Student Success through an Equity Lens

East Los Angeles College and Palo Verde College have been honored with the 2024 Dr. John W. Rice Equity and Student Success Awards for their ceaseless efforts at creating successful and equitable pathways to greater student achievement in line with goals and benchmarks articulated in Vision 2030.

Woodland Community College earned an Honorable Mention in the Student Success Award category, and all three colleges were recognized during a July 22nd ceremony in Sacramento.

» Read more!


Barstow Community College Launches Groundbreaking
CodeBoxx Cadet Program

Barstow Community College is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) and CodeBoxx to launch the groundbreaking CodeBoxx Cadet Program. This collaborative effort is aimed at meeting the specific needs of our community college workforce development audience by offering a unique and tailored coding program.

» Read more!


Crafton Hills College Receives $15,000 Grant From Bank of America
to Support Training First Responders Project

Crafton Hills College (CHC) has received a $15,000 grant from Bank of America to support its Training First Responders project and Crafton Roadrunners pursuing degrees or certificates in public safety and allied health programs. CHC’s Training First Responders project aims to provide financial support to students studying to become paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and members of other emergency health professions.

» Read more!


Expanding Opportunities: San Bernardino Valley College’s
New Credit for Prior Learning Program

SBVC is proud to announce the launch of its new Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program, designed to acknowledge and validate the diverse experiences and skills students acquire outside of conventional academic environments. This program enables students to earn college credits through various assessments that recognize prior learning from work, military service, or other educational pursuits.

» Read more!



In Case You Missed It

CCRC Webinar – Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of Community Colleges in Preparing Students for the Green Economy


On August 1 at 9 am, I will join climate justice author and activist Bill McKibben for a webinar presented by the Community College Research Center.

What is the role of the nation’s community and technical colleges in responding to the pressures of climate change? Join the Community College Research Center to hear about the central role community colleges should play in preparing for the significant workforce transitions that are occurring as colleges, governments, and industries work to limit, adapt to, and mitigate the effects of climate change. Hear from California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian on how community colleges can address climate change and help their local communities prepare students for jobs in the green economy.

» Learn more & Register!

*****

Inside Philanthropy – Community Colleges: Making the Most of Philanthropic Dollars to Bring Equity to Higher Education

Keetha Mills, President and CEO of Foundation for California Community Colleges, wrote this piece for Inside Philanthropy:

Supporting community colleges means opening doors to higher education for students from diverse backgrounds, offering opportunities to those who might otherwise be excluded. These institutions provide quality education, real-world work experience, and programs that empower individuals to pursue their academic and career goals regardless of their socioeconomic status.

» Read more!


Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From Shasta College:

Have you seen our newest four-legged friends? This week we welcomed 600 goats to the Redding campus to perform fire mitigation maintenance by eating brush across 61 acres. Feel free to enjoy watching them from a few feet back, but don’t touch or feed them. They’re hard at work!

*****

From Ohlone College:

Summerfest 2024 was a hit! Let’s give a standing ovation to our students and Smith Center team for presenting Grease the Musical!

*****

From San Diego College of Continuing Education:

Thanks for bringing your vibrant energy, love, and support at the San Diego Pride Parade this weekend! A special shoutout to our amazing volunteers, sponsors, and local organizations who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.


And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Performing Arts Wrap Up Successful Production of ‘Something Rotten’

The Bakersfield College Theater Department has wrapped another successful summer production, with the final performance of ‘Something Rotten’ taking place over the weekend. The entertaining, musical comedy presents the story of the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who struggle to reach the success they long for in the theatrical world as they compete with the renowned Renaissance writer, William Shakespeare.

» 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

Wrapping up an academic year

I started my week in DC for a White House AI summit. And of course did my Washington Monument photo ritual…

Back in Sacramento, the executive team had a two-day planning meeting, and we also celebrated Deputy Chancellor Daisy Gonzales who is transitioning to lead the California Student Aid Commission:

***

It was also a time to honor Juneteenth, a federal holiday to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the Civil War.

Good morning California.
It is June 22, 2024.
A good day to be a Community College Champion



From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Coalinga College Advances to Community College Innovation Challenge Finals

Coalinga College was one of 12 finalist teams selected to advance to the final round of the Community College Innovation Challenge. The Coalinga team’s project – “Got Calcium: The New Battery Innovation” – seeks to switch from lithium to calcium batteries to improve cost-effectiveness, safety, and battery performance offering an eco-friendly alternative for energy storage solutions.

» Read more!


Shasta College & Reach University Partner to Increase
Local Bachelor’s Degree Attainment for Rural Working Adults

Shasta College and Reach University today announced a partnership to offer Shasta College graduates a fully transferable, job-embedded, and paid pathway to a bachelor’s degree in their local community. In the partnership’s “Associate to Bachelor’s Degree Transfer Pathway,” Shasta College graduates from 70 programs can transfer 100% of their associate credits into Reach University’s liberal studies degree program. 

» Read more!


Sacramento State Partners with Community Colleges to Create
Guaranteed Pathway to Black Honors College

The California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) signed a deal with 15 California community colleges to guarantee the admission of all eligible transfer students to its first-in-the-nation Black Honors College (BHC).

Sacramento State signed the partnership agreement with the participating community colleges during a Juneteenth Symposium on June 13. Eligible students will be able to transfer smoothly into the BHC from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2030.

The colleges include:

American River College
Butte College
Cosumnes River College
Folsom Lake College
Fullerton College
Merritt College
Mission College
Modesto Junior College

Moorpark College
Palomar College
Sacramento City College
San Diego College of Continuing Education
San Joaquin Delta College
Sierra College
Yuba College

» Read more!


In Case You Missed It

Stanford Report: Monica Hicks’ about-face

Once an inmate in California’s state prison system, Monica Hicks graduated from Stanford with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

The Stanford Report published this great story about a student who graduated after completing a prison sentence and forging a new path by starting at a community college.

» Read more!

*****

Cal Chamber: Local Workforce Development and Economic Mobility Have Extensive Community College Underpinnings

Through diverse and innovative workforce development programs and initiatives, California Community Colleges are directly shaping the future of the state’s workforce by addressing industry needs, bridging skill gaps and providing students with practical training and opportunities for economic advancement and career success.

» Read more!


Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

From the Student Senate for California Community Colleges:

Thank you to the 2023-2024 Board of Directors for a wonderful year. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and continued success

*****

From Cañada College:

On Tuesday, June 18th, the Black Student Union (BSU), TRIO Student Support Services, and Promise Scholars Program (PSP) collaborated to help our campus celebrate Juneteenth. As a way to commemorate this day, we supported a Black owned business, Everett and Jones (located in Oakland), and participants enjoyed barbecue and soul food as they watched Netflix’s High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America. The series explores the throughline of food, tradition and culture that survived the Transatlantic Slave Trade and became staples in American cuisine. The documentary series proved impactful as folks dried their eyes as the episode ended. Next, participants teamed up for a game of Kahoot! to learn more about the significance of the Juneteenth holiday. Juneteenth not only celebrates the freedom of enslaved Africans but is a celebration of progress in our community. Thank you to the BSU, TRIO, and PSP for creating a moving event!

*****

From MiraCosta College:

Congrats to Kat Parra, MiraCosta alumna, on her Emmy Award win! She received the Emmy for her exceptional work as a Newscast Director at @fox5sandiego and @KUSINews. Her success is a testament to the strong foundation laid at MiraCosta College.

*****

From El Camino College:

CA State Senator @SteveBradford recognized the ECC Men’s soccer team for being named the 2023 Nat’l Champions by @UnitedCoaches for the Junior College D3 Men’s Soccer Rankings.


And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Theater Program To Present Something Rotten!

Bakersfield College’s Theater Program announced today the details of their annual summer musical, a traditional collaboration with the Choral and Instrumental Music programs. This year’s presentation will be Something Rotten, with a book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick, directed by Professor Brian J. Sivesind, with Vocal Direction by Professor Caley Mayhall and Music Direction by Dr. Scott Dirkse. The musical will play in the Edward Simonsen Indoor Theatre on the Bakersfield College campus from July 12 through July 21; asdf

» 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

Moments that take our breath away – May 2024

This week, we had the Board of Governors retreat. Thank you so much to the Santa Monica Team team for your hospitality!

I also spoke at the ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost) Summit at the College of the Canyons:

Last weekend I was in Cabo … loved waking up to this:

Beautiful Cabo:

Desert Rose:

At home, too, it’s a season of roses:

It’s also commencement season – with exercises for some of our community colleges happening this weekend!

Life Is Not Measured By the Number of Breaths We Take,
But By the Moments That Take Our Breath Away

Good morning California.
It is May 4, 2024.
A good day to be a Community College Champion



From California Community Colleges.
Our Time is Now!

Chico State, Northern Community Colleges Streamline Transfer Process

Chico State President Steve Perez and leadership from Butte College, College of the Siskiyous, Feather River College, Lassen Community College, Shasta College, Woodland Community College and Yuba College signed Memoranda of Understanding to formalize dual admission and streamlined transfer for students interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree at Chico State. This guaranteed admission and accompanying support mechanisms lay the groundwork to simplify and ease transfer students’ pathways to pursue four-year degrees, credentials, and further education within their region.


Celebrating College of San Mateo’s HSI Status and Black Excellence

On April 22, 2024, as part of California Community College’s Black Student Success Week, CSM’s Title V Grant team hosted an event to celebrate their designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) while spotlighting Black excellence in higher education.

» Read more!


Calbright College Launches Project Management Program

This spring, Calbright College launched its new Project Management program. This skills-based program will serve as an entry point into project management-based careers, which have an expected job growth rate of 10.5% over the next decade and can span multiple industries. 

» Read more!


San Joaquin Delta College Invites Public to View “Eyes of Science”

San Joaquin Delta College is the only community college in the U.S. to offer training in electron microscopy. With magnification of 100,000 times or greater, these powerful microscopes are known as the “eyes of science” because they are used for critical research in many scientific fields. Graduates of Delta’s electron microscopy program have landed high-paying, in-demand jobs at laboratories across the country. SJDC recently held an open house showcasing their electron microscopy program.

» Learn more about Electron Microscopy at SJDC!



In Case You Missed It

Expanding Horizons: How California’s Community Colleges
are Shaping the Future of Education

In a recent episode of the Capstone Conversation, hosted by Jared Asch, a special three-part series on community colleges and local education was kicked off with Tom Epstein, a member of the California Community College Board of Governors. The series explores the unique roles and innovative programs within the California community college system, emphasizing their efforts in local education and community engagement.

» Check out the podcast!


Fun Photos & Spotted on Social Media

Thank you Paul Medina for sharing this:

Wishing a Happy 21st birthday to Board of Governors member Casey Chang! Casey celebrated this milestone with her fellow BOG colleagues during a retreat.

*****

From Moorpark College:

Jamaal Brown hosted an exhilarating trivia-style Black History quiz competition at Moorpark College. The Black 365 Knowledge Bowl, a fast-paced, buzzer-beating event challenged participants to answer a series of questions related to African American history. The spirited contest crowned the Black 365 Knowledge Bowl Champ and was an inspirational celebration of Black history and achievements. The hour-long event was designed to entertain and inform attendees with rich historical content and stories of prominent Black individuals.

Winner of the Black 365 Knowledge Bowl: Student -Wren Grant. Special recognition to Tristin Fowler Counseling Service Specialist (Black Student Success) for organizing and implementing this event.

*****

From Reedley College:

2024 STEM Conference! Over 500 students from our local elementary, middle and high schools on our campus today. Lots of workshops and a lot of fun!


Blast from the Past

As we begin commencement season, I wanted to share my Welcome Remarks from the Bakersfield College 2021 Virtual Commencement:


And From the Home of the Renegades

BC Receives Generous Donation of 2023 Lincoln Aviator
Thanks To Jim Burke Ford

Bakersfield College’s Automotive Technology Program has received a generous donation of a 2023 Lincoln Aviator from local dealership, Jim Burke Ford Lincoln. This contribution marks a significant enhancement to the College’s training fleet, providing students with hands-on experience with the latest in automotive technology.

» 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