Despite this remarkable progress, the COVID pandemic added tremendous setbacks to our country’s entire educational system. It has impacted our college students, who were already burdened with numerous challenges like food insecurities, homelessness, and inflation. Our college adjusted to provide online classes so students can continue to take courses with support services. We obtained federal grants to support students with tuition assistance, food, housing, mental healthcare, and childcare.

• • Modernize Board Meetings from paper and pencil to 100% digital and make them accessible to our community to increase public transparency.
  • Scholarships & Career Pathways secured $1.5 million for scholarship/fellowships to help students achieve their educational goals without incurring debt.
  • Saved public funds with bond refinance savings of over $13 million for our homeowners’ taxpayers and increased reserves (7% to 27%) during my Board Presidency.
  • We secured $500,000 for the Child Care Center to provide child care during the pandemic and secured funds to house students experiencing homelessness.

As an immigrant who worked through college with no financial aid, I understand the challenges student may face when there is no support in achieving their educational goals.

As a Trustee, I will continue to advocate for opportunities for our students and ensure they can obtain the education necessary for lifelong success in a good-paying career while keeping costs low, shortening the time needed to finish, and providing the essential support for success.