Chancellor's Remarks December 17, 2024 Board of Trustees Meeting

Good evening, everyone,

It is a joy to gather with you tonight and to share some truly exciting news. Since our last meeting, we celebrated a historic milestone with the successful passage of Measure Q. This transformative investment in the future of our Valley reflects the collective vision, tireless efforts, and unwavering commitment of so many.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the State Center Vision 2035 Planning Commission—comprised of our dedicated faculty leaders, classified professionals, administrators, Dr. Dunn, Vice Chancellor Miktarian, and both internal and external stakeholders—who devoted 18 months to crafting a thoughtful, integrated plan grounded in our shared mission, vision, and values. Your collaborative work laid a strong foundation for Measure Q and reaffirmed our unwavering dedication to student success.

A very special thank you to the State Center Foundation, under the leadership of Board President Karin Gillan and executive members Marilynn Beringer and Jeff Tatsumura, whose exemplary leadership helped raise nearly half a million dollars in support of Measure Q. With the backing of more than 100 community partners, the passage of this measure is a powerful testament to what we can achieve together. We are shaping a brighter, more equitable future for our students and for the communities we serve.

Wall of Honor

Last week, we proudly celebrated the 2024 Muro de Honor honorees, who beautifully embody excellence, dedication, and the spirit of community:

• Franchesca Amezola, Spanish Instructor, Reedley College
• Kathleen Ann Bonilla (Posthumously), Public Information Officer, Fresno City College
• Monique Reyna, Senior Program Specialist, CalWORKs, Fresno City College

Thank you to Trustee Robert Fuentes, the Muro de Honor Committee, and Arte Américas for hosting such a heartfelt and meaningful event. A special note of appreciation to FCC’s Mark Tabay for capturing and sharing the celebration on social media.

Foundation Highlights

I’m also thrilled to share several outstanding developments from the State Center Foundation. We received news that Phil Harvey, Coldplay’s manager, has generously contributed $10,000 in memory of Michael J. Quinn to establish a scholarship for students at Fresno City College. In addition, Mr. Harvey donated two tickets to Coldplay’s sold-out tour, which will be auctioned during the Elements of the Arts event in April 2025.

We also extend our deepest thanks to the Delta Dental Foundation for their generous gift of $325,000 to FCC’s Dental Hygiene program. Of this, $300,000 will be endowed for scholarships, and $25,000 will be available immediately to support students in need—covering emergency aid, exam fees, and other critical expenses.

Protecting Our Students

The California Attorney General recently issued updated guidance aimed at protecting immigrant communities, reinforcing privacy rights, and limiting immigration enforcement activities on public campuses. I am grateful to our college presidents and TRIO Directors who participated in a recent informational session on this important topic.

Across the district, we are proud to have 18 TRIO programs led by passionate and highly capable professionals. I’d like to recognize Reedley College’s Channie Phantharath, who serves as President of CenCal WESTOP, and FCC’s Ben Reynoso, who is the past president and current Legislative Chair for the region. Their advocacy is making a meaningful difference for our students.

In light of ongoing federal immigration challenges, we are establishing a Chancellor’s Task Force to ensure we are doing everything possible to support and safeguard our most vulnerable students. This group will be co-chaired by President Dr. Angel Reyna and Trustee Robert Fuentes, and will include representation from key community partners such as Centro La Familia and the Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative.

The Task Force will develop actionable recommendations and frameworks aligned with our district’s unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and student well-being. I am deeply grateful to President Reyna and Trustee Fuentes for graciously agreeing to lead this important effort. More details will be shared in the coming weeks.