Chancellor Goldsmith's 2025 Trailblazers Event Speech

Good evening, distinguished guests, colleagues, and friends.

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support during our recent campaign, Measure Q. Because of your commitment and belief in our mission, we successfully passed a $698 million bond measure—an investment that will further strengthen the four colleges of State Center: Madera Community College, Clovis Community College, Reedley College, and Fresno City College, California’s first community college.

Your support is the foundation of our progress, and we are truly thankful. Time and time again, you have demonstrated that when a community comes together, we can achieve extraordinary things. A shining example of this is the dream of a higher educational institution in West Fresno…the construction of the West Fresno Campus—was a dream that simply would not have become a reality without all of you. 

Thank you for being part of this journey with us, your dedication not only shapes our institutions but also empowers our future generations.

This is why it is such a profound privilege to stand before you tonight as we honor extraordinary leaders, like Dr. Kim Armstrong, and recognize 11 African American trailblazers who have shaped our history, our communities, and our future.

Dr. Armstrong, first came to State Center as the newest President of Clovis Community College.  When Dr. Pimentel accepted the promotion as Chancellor or West Hills, I asked Dr. Armstrong to serve as the Interim President of Fresno City College, while we conduct a national search.  In both of these roles and in her previous positions, she has dedicated her career to the pursuit of educational excellence, student success, and equity.

Her leadership is a testament to what is possible when passion meets purpose—when we commit ourselves to creating opportunities for all, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the tools to reach their full potential…one student at a time. Dr. Armstrong, your recognition tonight is well deserved, and we celebrate not just your achievements but the doors you continue to open for others.

This evening is about more than honoring one individual—it is about honoring a legacy. A legacy built by the trailblazers who came before us—those who defied the odds, challenged the status quo, and paved the way for progress. From the resilience of Frederick Douglass to the brilliance of Dr. Maya Angelou, from the courage of Ruby Bridges to the innovation of Katherine Johnson, our history is filled with African American leaders who have transformed our world through their courage, intellect, and determination.

However, as we gather to celebrate these amazing achievements, we must also acknowledge the challenges we face today. Recent policy shifts have led to the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within federal agencies, including the discontinuation of cultural awareness months such as Black History Month.  These actions threaten to diminish the recognition and appreciation of the rich contributions that African Americans have made to our nation.

Yet, we do not need permission to exalt excellence and rejoice in righteousness.

At State Center Community College District, we recognize that education is a powerful force for equality and justice. Our commitment to diversity, kindness and inclusion is not just a statement—not just words on paper - it is a call to action. It is our responsibility to ensure that Black history is not only acknowledged during February but embedded in the very fabric of our educational system—through the stories we tell, the perspectives we uplift, the curriculum we teach and the policies we champion.

As we celebrate tonight, let us be reminded that being a trailblazer is not just about individual success—it is about lighting the way for those who come next.

Dr. Armstrong, you exemplify this spirit. You inspire us to strive for a future where education is truly the great equalizer, where every student sees themselves reflected in the opportunities before them, and where no dream is beyond reach.

In the face of current challenges, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our commitment to honor and preserve Black history and culture. Let us continue to celebrate the achievements of African American trailblazers, not just in words, but through our unwavering dedication to equity and inclusion…and in our interactions with one another.  You and I, together…we must persevere to ensure our collective dreams of justice and kindness become a reality, and not a mere thought.

Congratulations to all the trailblazers past, present, and future for your well-earned recognition.  And thank you all for showing us the way.

Let us continue to honor this legacy, not just with our words, but with our actions.

Thank you.