San Mateo County Community College District Urges Governor Newsom to Sign SB 895

Bill aims to expand the pool of registered nurses by allowing select community colleges to offer Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees.

San Mateo, CA –  Governor Newsom has until September 30 to sign a new bill into law creating ten baccalaureate nursing programs at community colleges across the state. San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) supports SB 895 by Senator Richard Roth because it would help address California’s nursing shortage.  

“Addressing California’s nursing shortage is not just a priority; it’s a necessity for the health and well-being of our communities. The Governor’s signature on SB 895 would mark a transformative milestone for our community colleges and the students we serve,” said SMCCCD Board of Trustees President John Pimentel.

California is suffering from a shortage of Registered Nurses (RNs). In 2018, more than 85% of hospitals in California reported that the demand for RNs was greater than the available supply—a public health crisis that has not improved and has instead been exacerbated by the global pandemic. 

District Chancellor Melissa Moreno notes, “By enabling a bachelor’s degree in nursing, this legislation empowers community colleges to address critical healthcare workforce shortages and provide a direct pathway to advanced education and career opportunities for students. This change enhances healthcare quality in our communities and opens doors to rewarding careers, ultimately driving economic growth and improving lives.” 

Historically, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) has been the basic credential requirement for employment as an RN in a healthcare facility, and four-year institutions have traditionally awarded the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. However, the healthcare workforce requirements are changing, and hospitals increasingly prefer and require a BSN degree. According to a 2021 Health Impact report, 18% of California hospitals surveyed stated that a BSN was required for employment—twice the percentage noted in 2017—and 54.3% of hospitals reported a preference for hiring nurses with BSN degrees. 

SB 895 (Roth) bridges the nursing gap in the State by utilizing existing ADN programs at community colleges to address the lack of capacity in public, four-year nursing schools. With the difference between an ADN and a BSN being only an additional 30 units of upper-division, major coursework, several ADN programs are well positioned to expand their offerings to BSN degrees.  

SB 895 (Roth) establishes a sustainable and cost-neutral path forward for community colleges to meet the community and workforce demand for more nurses. 

Media Contact: David McLain, Community & Government Relations, SMCCCD, (650) 730-8049 or mclaind@smccd.edu

College of San Mateo Announces Grand Opening of Half Moon Bay Coastside Educational Facility

A public ribbon-cutting ceremony to be held Thursday, October 17, at 4 pm in Half Moon Bay.

Half Moon Bay, CA – September 24, 2024. College of San Mateo (CSM) proudly announces the grand opening of its Coastside Educational Facility in Half Moon Bay, an extension of the CSM main campus that will provide expanded educational opportunities and career pathways for the Coastside community for all current and future students, especially our Latinx, Chinese, and Migrant Farm Worker communities. This initiative is part of CSM’s continued commitment to advancing equity and fostering economic mobility through education. 

The Coastside Educational Facility, approved by the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Board of Trustees, was established to address the unique needs of the region’s vital and underserved populations. The new facility will provide various services designed to empower the local community and create pathways toward post-secondary education and living-wage careers.

Key programs and services that will be offered at the Coastside Educational Facility include: 

  • Language and Literacy Development: Specialized classes aimed at improving English proficiency and literacy to help participants succeed academically and professionally. 
  • Access to Higher Education: College preparatory courses and support programs to ease the transition into post-secondary education and provide students with the resources they need to thrive. 
  • Career Training: Industry-aligned vocational programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for living-wage careers in local and regional industries.
  • Academic and Career Counseling: Personalized guidance from dedicated counselors who will support students throughout their educational journey and help them navigate career opportunities. 
  • Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local organizations and employers to connect students with real-world work experiences and job opportunities that enhance their career prospects. 

SMCCCD Trustee Dr. Lisa Petrides shares, “As a longtime resident of the Coastside, I have seen firsthand the vital role that the Latinx and Migrant Farm Worker communities play in our region’s economy and culture. The Coastside Educational Facility is a direct response to the barriers that the Coastside faces in accessing higher education. By offering tailored programs and services, we will provide pathways to greater opportunities, which will have a lasting, positive impact on our community. As programming develops, we may see additional offerings responsive to ongoing input.”

SMCCCD Chancellor Melissa Moreno shares, “One of our priorities over the next few years is to embed our colleges into the communities we serve. The CSM Coastside Education Facility is one such example, where it reduces transportation barriers so prevalent to our students on the Coastside and aligns with this community’s needs.”

The Coastside Educational Facility will serve as a hub for academic and career development, connecting students to opportunities that foster individual growth and regional workforce development. CSM is committed to breaking down barriers to education and ensuring that underserved populations have access to the resources they need to thrive.

“This facility is the result of a collaborative effort among the Board of Trustees, community leaders, local businesses, and CSM’s dedicated team,” said Dr. Manuel Alejandro Pérez, President of CSM. “We are thrilled to open a campus that reflects our commitment to equity and inclusion, empowering the Coastside community by providing the education and training needed for success in today’s economy. This is an exciting moment for the college, and we look forward to seeing the transformative impact it will have on our Coastside families and partners.” 

A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the Coastside Educational Facility located at 650 Mill Street, Suite #101, Half Moon Bay, on Thursday, October 17, at 4 pm. The public is invited to attend. For more information, please visit: https://collegeofsanmateo.edu/coastside

About College of San Mateo: College of San Mateo (CSM), part of the San Mateo County Community College District, is a leading community college in San Mateo, California, committed to providing an accessible, high-quality, and liberatory education. With a focus on equity, inclusion, and academic excellence, CSM empowers students to achieve their full potential and make lasting generational impacts. CSM offers a wide range of academic and vocational programs, fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment.

Media Contact: Eddie Flores, Public Information Officer, College of San Mateo, 650-574-6538 or FloresE@smccd.edu

On a Wonderful Journey with the Support of Free College: Vairea Samn, Skyline College Student

After meeting her husband and immigrating to the United States, Vairea wanted to return to her studies so that she could start a business of her own. Like many older students, her studies started and stopped due to family obligations. She began her studies in 2019 when she learned about Skyline College from her husband. After pausing her education to have a second child, she restarted in 2021. Majoring in Business Management, Vairea will graduate in 2025. Because college was free for Vairea, she could return to school, learn English (her native languages are Tahitian and French), and be supported by the Skyline College community.

In Vairea Samn’s words, “The sky’s the limit.” If not for free college, Vairea would not have been able to return to college. She would have had to work full-time to help support her sons. Although getting started was difficult for her, her first obstacle to overcome was learning to read and write English. Today, Vairea is incredibly proud of her accomplishments. As part of the Federal Work-Study program, Vairea works in Skyline College’s Outreach Department. She beams with pride when she talks about how she is the person who gives students presentations about Skyline College. She talks about how other students can have a journey similar to hers. “Skyline College welcomes all with open arms. I have taken advantage of Skyline College’s programs, including financial aid, EOPS, Promise, and Outreach. Free College not only helped with tuition but also helped with books, computers, and other resources.”

After graduating from Skyline College next year, Vairea Samn dreams of creating a business to help people understand the Tahitian culture. She wants her sons to know where she has come from and extend that cultural understanding to all.

Hear more from Vairea in this video.

San Mateo County Community College District Awaits Governor’s Decision on Whether to Sign AB 1780 into Law, Banning Legacy Admissions to Colleges 

Changes would require four-year higher education institutions to improve accountability and transparency in admissions. 

San Mateo, CA – September 19, 2024.  The California Legislature passed Assembly Bill 1780, authored by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) aiming to eliminate legacy and donor preferences in admissions at the state’s private and nonprofit colleges. The bill now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature to become law. 

If signed into law, California will join four other states in making legacy preferences illegal for both public and private institutions. Given California’s significant national influence as the most populous state and home to the largest number of college students, supporters believe this legislation will serve as a crucial corrective to last year’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that banned the use of race as a factor in admissions, except for military colleges. 

San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Board of Trustees President John Pimentel said, “Our doors are open to all without regard to legacy relationships, economic ability, race, or past academic performance. We offer a high-quality pathway for students to get ahead by affordably starting their journey to a four-year college degree or by completing professional certification programs that on average, increase earning potential by 30% or more.” 

He continued, “This is especially true now that we have Free College for all San Mateo County residents. Our colleges serve over 30,000 students annually – 46% of whom are first-generation college students for whom legacy admissions are not available.  SMCCCD offers these students, and every resident of our County, the first rung on the ladder of economic and academic success.”  

SMCCCD Chancellor Melissa Moreno echoed these sentiments, adding; “Community colleges have always leveled the playing field in higher education. Students who come to us are from diverse backgrounds with many life struggles who overcome their challenges with the support we provide on their path to a four-year institution.” 

Each year, over 3,000 San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) students successfully transfer to four-year institutions thanks to structured transfer agreements, academic support, and counseling. According to the Social Security Administration, completing a bachelor’s degree results in approximately an additional $1 million in lifetime earnings potential and better job prospects than a high school diploma. By accessing four-year institutions through community college, students gain opportunities for well-paying careers and long-term economic mobility, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. 

“I am proud that our local community colleges offer upward mobility and higher learning at a fraction of the cost charged by institutions that consider legacy in their admissions process,” said Pimentel. 

The bill, if signed by the Governor, would become effective next year. 

Media Contact: David McLain, Community & Government Relations, SMCCCD, (650) 730-8049 or mclaind@smccd.edu

San Mateo County Community College District Enhances Oversight of Voter-Approved Bond Funds

Construction project changes will now require the Board’s consent approval to improve accountability and transparency.

San Mateo, CA – September 4, 2024 – The San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Board of Trustees was informed at last week’s regular board meeting about a District plan to implement a change in how it oversees bond-funded projects. Bond project revisions will now go to the Board for consent approval with the first list of revisions being brought to the next September 11, 2024 regular meeting.

SMCCCD Chancellor Melissa Moreno, J.D., is pleased to champion the Board’s focus on continuous improvement and fiscal integrity: “Since becoming Chancellor, our work is focused on improving the way the college district does business and strengthening accountability standards. More frequent and transparent reviews of the District’s progress toward modernizing its facilities is incredibly important as we begin planning for educating the future leaders of San Mateo County.”

To strengthen accountability measures for the Capital Improvement Program bond program, District staff has revised the process for managing, tracking, and presenting to the Board of Trustees all revisions to bond projects, including changes to individual project names, scope of work, project status, and budgets. Chancellor Moreno declared that this process will not include additions of new projects.

“By implementing this enhanced process for presenting bond revision lists to the Board of Trustees, we are making a strong commitment to San Mateo County taxpayers and the District’s Measure H Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee. This approach will offer more frequent and accessible updates, ensuring that taxpayers can easily track how their investments are being managed and safeguarded,” commented SMCCCD Executive Vice Chancellor Richard Storti.

Historically, changes to bond projects went to the Board only two times a year. Now, the Board will review adjustments in near-real-time.

About San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD): SMCCCD operates three colleges, Cañada College, College of San Mateo, and Skyline College, that provide community college educational services to the residents of San Mateo County. The District’s colleges serve over 30,000 students annually and offer the first two years of college-level instruction in various transfer and career-technical programs. The District is governed by a six-member Board of Trustees, with five voting members elected by voters from designated areas of the County and one nonvoting student member elected by students. For more information, see: smccd.edu.

About the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC): The CBOC is responsible for reviewing that bond proceeds from Measure A on the November 2005 ballot and Measure H on the November 2014 ballot are spent only for construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or replacement of SMCCD facilities (including the purchase of furnishings and equipment) or the acquisition or lease of real property. The CBOC holds quarterly meetings that are open to the public. For more information on the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee, see: cboc.smccd.edu.

Media Contact: David McLain, Community & Government Relations, SMCCCD, (650) 730-8049 or mclaind@smccd.edu

San Mateo County Community College District Establishes Performance Audit Unit to Enhance Transparency and Accountability

SMCCCD is the first community college district in Northern California, and the second in the state, to implement a continuous improvement unit.

San Mateo, CA – August 29, 2024 – The San Mateo County Community College District
(SMCCCD) Board of Trustees is proud to announce the creation of a Performance Audit Unit, a
significant step taken at the August 28, 2024, Board Meeting to increase transparency and
accountability within the organization. SMCCCD is now the first community college district in
Northern California to implement such a unit, underscoring its commitment to excellence and
integrity.

The newly established Performance Audit Unit will be instrumental in ensuring that
departments and programs at the colleges and within the District adopt standards for internal
controls to operate efficiently and effectively, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and
regulations.

The unit will independently conduct comprehensive performance audits as directed by the
Board of Trustees. Trustee Richard Holober said, “The desire to implement a performance audit
function has finally come to fruition. It provides much-needed independent checks and
balances to ensure the District’s ability to report reliable information about its operation of the
organization.”

Melissa Moreno, J.D., Chancellor for SMCCCD, is pleased the Board has adopted this
performance improvement function. “We will set the gold standard statewide for the
community college system by adopting internal controls and security standards based on best
practices in federal public agencies. Our district aims to model transparency and accountability
to the taxpaying public and ensure managed risk and fraud prevention,” said Chancellor
Moreno.

The Audit Unit is perfectly aligned with the Board of Trustees’ newly adopted goals and values
emphasizing transparency, continuous improvement, and accountability. The Board has
committed sufficient funds and recently appointed its first Performance Auditor, Houman
Boussina, who holds an M.A. in Accountancy from San Jose State University and is certified in
four auditing areas—internal auditing, government auditing, fraud examination, and
information systems. Boussina has deep experience developing findings and recommendations
to support continuous improvement in local government settings.

Each fiscal year, the auditor submits an annual audit plan for Board approval and final audit
reports will be shared publicly in board meetings throughout the year. The Chancellor will be
responsible for implementing the audit recommendations. “Our goal is to secure the district’s
operational integrity and promote efficiency and accountability as we educate the future
leaders of San Mateo County,” says Chancellor Moreno.

Media Contact: David McLain, Community & Government Relations, SMCCCD, (650) 730-8049 or mclaind@smccd.edu

SMCCCD Welcomes Megan Barber Allende as Foundation Executive Director 

San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) proudly announces the appointment of Megan Barber Allende as the new Executive Director of the San Mateo County Community Colleges Foundation (SMCCCF). With a distinguished career in community-based philanthropy, Megan brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing educational opportunities for all.  

“I am honored to join the San Mateo County Community Colleges Foundation and contribute to its vital mission of supporting students in reaching their educational aspirations,” said Megan. “I am excited to collaborate with the Foundation team and our community partners to create meaningful opportunities for student success.”  

Megan joins SMCCCF following an impressive tenure as the President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, where she spearheaded substantial growth and operational excellence. During her eight-year leadership, she doubled the Foundation’s assets, tripled annual grantmaking, and positioned the organization as a pivotal force for community development, securing the charitable future of the under-resourced county in perpetuity.  

In welcoming Megan, San Mateo County Community College District Chancellor Melissa Moreno remarked, “Megan’s track record of success and her dedication to philanthropy make her an exceptional choice for leader of the Foundation team. Her energetic and positive outlook, coupled with her passion for community engagement and student success, will most certainly catalyze greater community support for our students and transform our Foundation into a premier philanthropic organization in the community college system. “  

Megan’s commitment to students is evident in her accomplishments, including significant expansions of scholarship programs for historically underrepresented and first-generation college students. Her appointment as Executive Director of SMCCCF positions her to build on this success and set ambitious goals for student achievement.  

Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan, a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) certification from the American College of Financial Services.  

Megan will start her new position with the Foundation on July 1, 2024, pending approval by the SMCCCD Board of Trustees at their June 26 regular meeting. 

SMCCCD Colleges Award Over 4,300 Degrees and Certificates at Commencement

At three commencement ceremonies held on Friday, May 24, and Saturday, May 25, over a thousand students took to the stages at Cañada College, College of San Mateo, and Skyline College to celebrate their academic achievements. Districtwide, this year’s graduating class earned over 4,300 degrees and certificates which underscores the dedication and hard work of the District’s students, faculty, and staff. 

2023-24 Highlights 

  • 8 Bachelor’s Degrees: Among the notable achievements is awarding eight bachelor’s degrees, specifically for the Respiratory Care program at Skyline College.  
  • 1,508 Associate Degrees: A total of 1,508 associate degrees have been conferred, reflecting the commitment of students to pursue higher education and acquire essential skills for their future endeavors. 
  • 2,797 Certificates: Additionally, 2,797 certificates have been awarded, signifying proficiency and expertise in various fields of study. 
  • Age Diversity: The graduating class showcases an impressive age range, from the youngest graduate at 15 to the oldest at 78, demonstrating that education knows no bounds. 
  • Global Representation: 118 international students from 28 countries earned degrees and certificates, contributing to a diverse and vibrant learning environment. 
  • Out-of-State Students: 102 out-of-state students have received degrees and certificates, highlighting the District’s appeal beyond its immediate vicinity. 
  • Support for Veterans: The District is proud to recognize the achievements of 101 veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have earned degrees and certificates, demonstrating a commitment to supporting those who have served our country. 
  • DACA/Dreamer/AB540 Students:  110 DACA/Dreamer/AB540 students graduated, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in higher education. 
  • First-Generation College Students: An impressive 1,604 graduates are first-generation college students, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. 
  • Support for Foster Youth: The District celebrates the success of 22 foster youth who have earned degrees and certificates, showcasing resilience and determination in overcoming challenges. 
  • Support for Justice-Impacted Individuals: Thirteen incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, or justice-impacted individuals have graduated, underscoring the District’s commitment to providing opportunities for all community members. 
  • Academic Excellence: A total of 716 graduates have earned academic honors, including cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude distinctions, recognizing their exceptional academic achievements. 
     

The San Mateo County Community College District congratulates all 2023-24 graduates for their remarkable accomplishments and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.  

Dr. Manuel Alejandro Pérez Named President of College of San Mateo 

College’s first queer-identified and Latino president brings passion for equity and student success.

Following a national search, San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Chancellor Melissa Moreno has announced that she will recommend Dr. Manuel Alejandro Pérez to the Board of Trustees as the next president of College of San Mateo (CSM). The Board of Trustees will take formal action on Dr. Pérez’s appointment at their meeting on May 22, 2024. 

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Pérez to College of San Mateo,” said Chancellor Moreno. “He is a passionate leader who has demonstrated a deep commitment to underserved student communities with innovative programs to provide equitable and inclusive student experiences that engender their success. We are confident that he will lead CSM to new heights of excellence and innovation using an uncompromised collaborative and collegial approach.” 

Dr. Pérez brings 20 years of professional experience in higher education, from his doctoral work in education to his teaching work in social justice, international and multicultural studies, and the performing arts, to developing a career in the community college system, and now currently serving as the Vice President of Student Services at Cañada College. 

“I am honored and humbled to serve as the next president of College of San Mateo,” said Dr. Pérez. “I look forward to working collaboratively with the faculty, staff, students, and community partners to advance the mission and vision of this transformative institution. I am committed to fostering a culture of care, belonging, and excellence that supports the success and well-being of all our students, especially our historically marginalized and underserved communities.” 

Before joining SMCCCD, Dr. Pérez served as Interim Assistant Vice President for Equity & Community Inclusion at San Francisco State University. Before that, he served as the Dean of Student Development and Dean of Equity Programs & Pathways for American River College (ARC). 

Dr. Pérez holds a bachelor’s degree in communication studies with a minor in ethnic studies from Santa Clara University, a master’s degree in communication studies from San Diego State University, and a doctorate in education from the University of San Francisco, where he also teaches courses as part-time faculty. 

Dr. Pérez will start his new position on July 1, 2024. His selection is subject to approval of a written contract, whose terms will be available for public review before the May 22 board meeting. 

Melissa Moreno, J.D., Named Permanent Chancellor of SMCCCD

Second woman to serve as permanent chancellor in the District’s century-plus history after Dr. Lois Callahan, who retired in 1997.

Following a national search, the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) Board of Trustees announced their unanimous decision to select Melissa Moreno, J.D., as the next permanent Chancellor of SMCCCD, with an anticipated start date of April 25, 2024. 

“Chancellor Moreno is an innovative, dynamic, and collaborative leader who brings a strong vision for the future grounded by a demonstrated record of achievements,” said Board President John Pimentel. “Chancellor Moreno is an effective advocate for free community college for all San Mateo County residents. She’ll work closely with the board to prioritize improving student access, extend recent enrollment gains, and engage proactively with existing community organizations to reach communities who can improve their economic and career prospects through SMCCCD.”

Moreno has served as the District’s Interim Chancellor since April 2023. She has extensive executive-level experience with more than 18 years of progressive leadership roles in the community college system, beginning with the Santa Barbara Community College District. While there, she was the founding director of the national award-winning Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Dean of the Business Division, and Vice President of the School of Extended Learning. 

She joined San Mateo County Community College District in 2020 as President of Skyline College and provided steady leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I am honored to have been selected to lead the San Mateo County Community College District and am grateful to the Board of Trustees for their trust and confidence,” said Moreno. “As a former California community college student, I deeply respect the transformational power that community colleges hold to change lives. I am committed to a vision that centers the needs of our students and ensures educational opportunities for families and their children in our communities that are historically marginalized and least likely to go to college.”

Moreno’s visionary track record will ensure the District continues to grow student enrollment, maintain fiscal health, build student housing, and meet local workforce needs with a focus on closing equity gaps within the region. 

Moreno holds a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from UC Santa Barbara and a Juris Doctorate from Santa Barbara College of Law. 

Chancellor Moreno’s appointment is pending the final ratification of her employment contract, which will be considered at the Board of Trustees meeting on April 24, 2024.