Message from the President

Dear SDCCE Community,

As we enter the final three months of the spring semester and look ahead to our 2026 commencement, there is still plenty of time to make the most of the term and ensure our students remain on track for success.

This month has been filled with meaningful opportunities to strengthen our campus community from important safety trainings and preparedness efforts to initiatives that support student success and engagement. These activities reflect our ongoing commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and forward-thinking environment for our students and employees while continuing the important work that moves our college and District forward.

Enrollment Updates

Spring Update

SDCCE’s overall enrollment for spring stands at 26,451 (8% less than this time last year, and a 2% increase from last week), with a fill rate of 70%, which is less than last spring (76%). SDCCE’s overall headcount is currently 13,931, a decrease of 7% compared to this time last spring (14,903) and a 1% increase from last week (13,754). FTEF scheduled for the spring semester is 9% greater than last spring (194.76 to 212.60). View the enrollment report.

While enrollment continues to fluctuate, retention remains strong, and additional late-start sections are now underway. Our FTES are currently above target, signaling positive momentum. Final enrollment numbers will be available after the semester concludes, and we will continue to monitor trends closely.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

Join SDCCE's Team ABI 2026 with DSPS! We're proud to participate in the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation SurviveHEADSTRONG Walk & Health Fair, supporting brain injury awareness and recovery. For the third year in a row, I am proud to sponsor students for this event—let’s walk and roll together for a great cause!

The event will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at De Anza Cove at Mission Bay Park.

Employees can donate & register with Team ABI at their direct link: sdbif.org/teamabi

Please join our Fourth Annual Budget and Enrollment Management Symposium on Wednesday, March 11, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the César E. Chávez Campus, Multipurpose Room, or via Zoom (Webinar ID: 829 0348 9256).

We will continue to offer this symposium in a hybrid format to ensure the information is accessible to all.

Topics will include:

• A deep dive into college funding
• Resource allocation
• Enrollment trends and progress
• Strategic enrollment management updates

A shared understanding of the current state of our budget and enrollment is essential to our continued stability, growth, and service to students. These important updates will help shape our college’s future as we move forward together. I look forward to your participation in this important conversation.

Congratulations to our A2MEND Student Charter for their outstanding performance at the Knowledge Bowl during the 19th Annual A2MEND Summit in Long Beach. Our students represented the college well, earning an impressive second-place finish. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and teamwork.

InnovAItion Day (AI Day) is quickly approaching at SDCCE’s North City Campus on Friday, March 20, bringing an exciting opportunity to explore and engage with the evolving world of AI. Led by SDCCD’s Institutional Innovation and Effectiveness (II&E) division, this second annual event centers on the theme, “Curiosity in Action — Exploring AI with purpose, skepticism, and shared imagination.” Employees will engage in a full day of professional learning through panels featuring students and industry leaders at the forefront of AI integration, targeted breakout sessions exploring the “why” behind specific tools and strategies, and lightning talks showcasing practical lessons and discoveries in AI implementation.

Event Details

• Location: North City Campus (lunch provided)
• Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with full- and half-day in-person options available and select sessions streamed via Zoom.
• Registration: Visit https://bit.ly/SDCCDAIDay2026 and select “Register Now” for in-person attendance or the “Virtual” tab for online participation.

Celebrating Women's History Month

Join the Cultural Events Task Force for Women's History Month! We have two workshops lined up and all are welcome to attend!

Leading While Becoming with Dr. Shanelle Watkins

Thursday, March 19th from 11-12:30 pm at our Mid-City Campus, Room 117
This interactive workshop explores identity-rooted leadership, confidence, belonging, and personal power.

Leading While Becoming with Dr. Shanelle Watkins

Tuesday, March 24th from 10:30-12:00 pm at our Cesar Chavez Campus, MPR
This interactive workshop explores identity-rooted leadership, confidence, belonging, and personal power.

Join us at Mid-City for “Gather”, a guided space for ESL instructors to connect, share, and unwind with coloring, facilitated by Sarah Boswell and Be Well CCE.

• When: Wednesday, March 18 | 12:30–1:30 PM
• Where: Mid-City, Room 217

Additional dates are available if you can’t attend. The next sessions will run from 12:30-1:30 PM on the following dates:

• Thursday, April 16
• Thursday, May 21

Come relax, connect, and recharge with us!

For assistance, contact: bewellsdcce@sdccd.edu

In support of the DEIAA Committee’s mission to advance inclusive learning and meaningful dialogue, the Spring 2026 Diversity Book Club will meet on the following dates:

• March 18 – Zoom
• May 21 – ECC

Participants who attend all three sessions and complete the reading will earn 10 hours of flex credit. Professor Ross will also present in person on March 18 at the Chavez Campus, and book club participants are encouraged to attend. Registration is available through the Spring 2026 DEIAA Book Club form.

Please join us in welcoming Loretta Ross to SDCCE on Wednesday, March 18, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the Cesar Chavez Campus, Multipurpose Room. Sponsored by the SDCCE Professional Development Department in collaboration with the San Diego Community College District Professional Development Office, this special event offers employees an opportunity to engage with a nationally recognized human rights advocate, speaker, and author of Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You'd Rather Cancel.

Reserve your spot by registering through the event RSVP link.

The emergency drill held at the Chavez Campus was an important opportunity to strengthen preparedness and reinforce our shared commitment to campus safety. Through this exercise, employees practiced emergency response procedures and gained valuable experience in staying alert and coordinated during critical situations for immigration and ICE activities.

Thank you to our dedicated team at Chavez for their engagement and participation. Special appreciation to Chancellor Smith and Vice Chancellor Susan Topham for joining the drill and demonstrating their support for ensuring a safe and prepared campus community.

SDCCE employees recently participated in a CPR & AED Awareness Course at the Cesar Chavez Campus, building essential skills to respond to cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies. Led by Nate Balch of the San Diego Project Heart Beat Training Center, the session included hands-only CPR practice on mannequins and an introduction to using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

The hands-on training helped strengthen confidence and preparedness, supporting a safer and more responsive campus community.

Spring Safety Trainings are underway. Please join us to build essential skills that keep our campus community safe. Multiple sessions and locations are available, with flex credit offered.

Evacuation Chair Training – Learn to safely operate evacuation chairs in multi-story buildings.

• Mar 11, 12:30–1:30pm | Mid City Campus, Rm 218
• Mar 19, 12:30–1:30pm | Cesar Chavez Campus, Rm 103

Hands-Only CPR & AED Introduction – Get basic knowledge of cardiac emergencies and hands-on practice with CPR and AEDs.

• Mar 13, 9–10am | ECC, Rm 134
• Mar 18, 12:15–1:15pm | CE Mesa, Rm 118/120
• Mar 24, 12:15–1:15pm | CE Miramar, Rm A102

Safety Workshop by SDCCD Police Department – Learn about campus safety resources, crime reporting, and best practices.

• Mar 19, 10–11am | Zoom

Visit our Safety Page to RSVP for sessions that work best for you.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the recent opportunity today to connect and share perspectives on issues that matter most to our campus community at the Chancellor's Spring Forum. The conversation created a meaningful space for open dialogue, thoughtful questions, and the exchange of ideas that will help inform and shape the future of our District. We appreciate the engagement, insight, and commitment shown by all who attended and contributed to this important discussion.

Hoop Hysteria

Join the SDCCE Foundation for a full day of non-stop basketball to support our students' basic needs. Teams will compete in this exciting fundraiser that brings our community together for a great cause!

The event will take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Jackie Robinson YMCA.

Volunteer at the event: We’ll need friendly faces to help with check‑in, guest support, activity stations, and more. Just a few hours of your time makes a huge difference.

Make a donation: Every contribution matters — truly. Even $5 helps expand the Basic Needs support that our students rely on. Click on the link to donate: Donate

Show up and cheer: Bring your energy to the stands! Invite family, bring friends — let’s pack the gym and show our students and community what SDCCE spirit looks like.

Your involvement, in any form, helps ensure that every SDCCE student has the support they need to stay on their educational journey.

For more information on how to support, visit the Hoop Hysteria website.

ECC Theatre Renovation

The ECC Theatre Renovation continues to make progress!

Visit the project webpage to learn more and stay up to date with the progress via livestream.

Thank you to our Theatre Director, Silvia Nogales, for playing a pivotal role in the theatre renovation and for keeping us informed on its progress. You can now follow the theatre on Facebook and Instagram @Educational Cultural Complex Theatre & Community Room.

Bond Projects Update

The current Measure HH Bond projects for our college continue to make progress. We have also developed a current projects page with updates on each project and the SDCCD Measure HH webpage has further updates.

Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging (SIB) Task Force Updates

The Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging (SIB) Task Force meets monthly to further our conversations on continuing to implement proactive strategies for tracking students who are facing immigration challenges, as well as the importance of reporting any sightings of ICE on campus to the Chancellor or District General Counsel. Reports of ICE near campus (off campus) should first be directed to the COS, who, in collaboration with the Deans, will take appropriate and informed next steps to address the situation.

We have a dedicated webpage with Know Your Rights Information, District protocols, resources, and more curated by our Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging Task Force.

Please take a moment to review the safety cards for navigating ICE incidents on campus. These resources are designed to guide employees on the steps for reporting.

All faculty are encouraged to share this opportunity with students and alumni who may benefit from connecting with inclusive employers. The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is hosting a Spring 2026 Virtual Career Fair for students and alumni with disabilities, including neurodivergent candidates.

This fully accessible event will connect participants with national employers offering internships, part-time, and full-time opportunities. The fair will take place March 24, 2026, from 7:30–10:30 a.m. PST via Zoom, and registration is free.

Please share and encourage students to register.

Meet Our New Student Workers

This week we have some special spotlights to share out! Say hello to our new student workers in ECC Headquarters.

Nigena Azimi

Nigena first joined SDCCE as an ESL student at the Mid-City Campus and, through the Work Study program, is now proud to be part of the SDCCE team. Before coming here, she worked as a medical TV presenter and recently completed a six-month esthetician program.

Her long-term goal is to become a dental hygienist and build a career in the medical field. Nigena shares that working at SDCCE has strengthened her confidence and supported both her personal and professional growth, especially in developing her language skills and expanding her comfort with technology. She is grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to the campus community.

Abdul Hakim Hajian

Abdul is a BBA graduate with more than eight years of experience in national and international organizations in Afghanistan, bringing skills in management, administration, accounting, finance, and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E).

He is currently studying at SDCCD to pursue his future goals, support his family, and deepen his understanding of the community and culture of the United States. Abdul shares that he is committed to continued professional growth and hopes to apply his knowledge and experience to support organizational success.

Ahmad Mangal

Ahmad first joined SDCCE as an ESL student and now works as a Project Assistant, supporting programs that empower students and strengthen the community. His journey at SDCCE has been shaped by a strong interest in education and helping others succeed.

Ahmad is currently focused on improving his English language skills and expanding his knowledge in project management, both of which are central to his academic and career goals. Outside of work, he enjoys learning new skills, collaborating on innovative projects, and connecting with others who share a passion for education and growth.

He is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to SDCCE’s mission and to support students in achieving their goals.

• Visit the Administrative Services Intranet to access campus safety resources and stay informed with the latest updates.
• The latest Work-Based Learning Newsletter is now available. Please take a moment to explore updates, opportunities, and partnerships supporting student career pathways.
• A reminder that all requests of the Communications Department must be approved by a dean or vice president and requires submission of a request form. You can find the Project Request Form link on the Faculty and Staff Resources Page of our website. Allow ten working days for a request to be completed. If a request needs immediate attention, please complete the form and contact the Public Information Officer.
• For SDCCE professional development opportunities, visit the professional development web page for upcoming workshops.

President's Updates

• I threw the first pitch at Skyline Hills Pony Baseball Opening Day, highlighting the college’s continued engagement with local youth programs and community partnerships that help strengthen connections across the community.
• It was a pleasure to host a site visit showcasing SDCCE to the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) team, along with representatives from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, consultants, and the San Diego/Imperial Valley Regional Consortium. The visit highlighted SDCCE’s strategic focus on adult learners, our workforce development pathways, and opportunities for future collaboration as we continue building strong momentum around workforce development and economic mobility for our region and state. I would also like to extend a special thank you to Chancellor Sonya Christian for her leadership and for continuing to elevate noncredit education and workforce development as critical priorities for the California Community Colleges system. Thank you to the following individuals who participated in the visit:
  • San Diego College of Continuing Education: VPSS Shakerra Carter, VPI Masa Omae, VPAS Jacqueline Sabanos, Dean Jessica Luedtke, Dean Andrei Lucas, Dean Armin Rashvand, Associate Dean Brad Dorschel, Associate Dean Jesus Rivas, Dean Catherine Shafer, SDCCD Chancellor Greg Smith, and our Associated Students
  • San Diego/Imperial Valley Regional Consortium: Dr. Danene Brown, Director
  • CAEL Team: Earl Buford – CAEL Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Scott Campbell, PhD – CAEL Vice President, Higher Education Partnerships, Christine Carpenter – CAEL Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, Beth Doyle, EdD – CAEL Chief Strategy Officer, Patricia Wallace – CAEL Senior Vice President, Initiatives & Memberships, Matt Waltz – Chief Growth Officer
  • California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office: Ioanna Iatridis – Assistant Vice Chancellor, Workforce and Economic Development, Gary Adams – Dean, Adult Education, Apprenticeship and Contract Education, Workforce and Economic Development Division, Mayra Diaz – Community College Specialist, Adult Education, Workforce and Economic Development Division, Dr. Sabrina Lopez – Community College Specialist, Apprenticeship, Workforce and Economic Development Division
  • Consultants: Barbara Endel, PhD – Research Consultant, Maggie Snyder – Assistant Research Project Director

The Research Corner

This week, we invite you to check the SDCCE Student Equity Dashboard updated with data from the last 5 years. The dashboard breaks down our student's data by four different metrics: retention, retention alternative calculation, success, and success alternative calculation. The dashboard also breaks down the data by several demographics and highlights which groups have been disproportionately impacted within the specific metric. The dashboard may be found on the following link: SDCCE Student Equity Dashboard. Please take a minute to review this resource and email jsalcedo001@sdccd.edu if you have any questions.