Dear SDCCE Community,
To those who took time away to enjoy spring break, I hope you had a restful and joyful break with family, friends, and loved ones. As we return, there's an important opportunity to engage with our community:
Special Board Meeting on Campus Renaming
The San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting today from 4 to 7 PM to hear public input and discuss the potential renaming of the César E. Chávez Campus, following recent news involving César Chávez.
The meeting will take place at the César Chávez Campus (1901 Main St.) or can be viewed via the Board of Trustees YouTube Channel . We encourage all students, faculty, staff, and community members to attend.
If you are unable or prefer not to participate in the meeting and would like to provide input, please email boardoffice@sdccd.edu and we will provide all input received to the Board prior to the meeting.
Enrollment Updates
Spring Update
SDCCE's overall enrollment for spring stands at 27,184 (9% less than this time last year, and a 0.1% increase from last week), with a fill rate of 70%, which is less than last spring (76%). SDCCE's overall headcount is currently 14,302, a decrease of 8% compared to this time last spring (15,525) and a 0.03% decrease from last week (14,307). FTEF scheduled for the spring semester is 9% greater than last spring (195.74 to 213.70). View report .
Connect with the President
I'm excited to continue offering the opportunity to Walk with the President! If you'd rather take a stroll around the Educational Cultural Complex instead of a Zoom meeting, join me for a refreshing walk as we continue to prioritize wellness. Don't forget to wear comfortable walking shoes!
Individual walks or zoom meetings will be 20 minutes and are available on a first come first-served basis. If you would like to schedule an appointment with me, please email sdccepresident@sdccd.edu for detailed information.
Lastly, you can utilize the anonymous sharing box . Your voice matters, and I look forward to continuing the conversation.
Final Call for Requisition Submissions
The District Office has released the 2025–2026 year-end closing and submission deadlines. To ensure we meet these timelines, all General Fund Unrestricted (GFU) purchase requisitions must be submitted to Administrative Services by Monday, April 6, 2026, and all Restricted Fund purchase requisitions must be submitted by Thursday, April 23, 2026. These deadlines allow sufficient time for necessary budget adjustments and approvals.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month
At SDCCE, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all students and employees. Sexual violence affects people of all genders and backgrounds, and preventing it is a shared responsibility. By promoting healthy relationships, equity, and respect, we can build stronger, safer communities together.
Get Involved & Show Support
- Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) Day of Action – April 7: Wear teal to support survivors and raise awareness.
- Denim Day – April 29: Stand in solidarity with survivors and help educate others about sexual violence prevention.
- Invite our Title IX Office to your classroom, student group, or department meeting to learn about consent, reporting options, and available resources.
Resources & Reporting
SDCCE provides support through the Title IX Office, including academic accommodations, counseling, safety measures, and community referrals. Students and employees can report incidents and access assistance at titleIX@sdccd.edu .
At SDCCE, we are committed to fostering a campus culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and respected.
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 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 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 .
BIG MAKE 2026: From Waste to Worth – Stitching Sustainable Stories
Join SDCCE for the BIG MAKE 2026: From Waste to Worth – Stitching Sustainable Stories, a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and community through textile arts. Guided by visiting artist Michelle Montjoy, the event highlights how reclaimed materials can be transformed through knitting, repair, and reuse into meaningful works that reflect care for the environment and one another. The week of student workshops will culminate in a free public Capstone Event & Festival on Saturday, April 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at West City Campus, featuring a large-scale textile installation, interactive activities, and a keynote address. Community members ages 16 and older are encouraged to attend and experience the power of sustainable making.
2026 Districtwide Black Student Success Summit
Join us for the 2026 Districtwide Black Student Success Summit, a virtual event for all District students and employees to build community and celebrate Black excellence.
Taking place Friday, April 17, 2026, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m., the summit will feature Black student leaders and artists from across our colleges, with a keynote by Dr. Michael Odu, Vice President of Instructional Services at San Diego Miramar College.
Register: https://forms.office.com/r/6PhSda40aw
2026 Districtwide Undocumented Student Conference
Join us for the 2026 Districtwide Undocumented Student Conference!
All District students, employees, and allies are invited to this free virtual event on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 3:00 – 5:30 p.m.. The conference features engaging workshops, important resources, and a student opportunity drawing.
Our keynote speaker will be UndocuScholars LLC, sharing insights and inspiration for undocumented students and their supporters. FLEX credit is available (31756 for credit, 38762 for noncredit).
Register now: https://forms.office.com/r/iL1RurpiuC
8th Annual CCC LGBTQIA2S+ Summit Watch Party
Join the watch party for the 8th Annual CCC LGBTQIA2S+ Summit hosted by Outreach and the SDCCE LGBTQIA+ Student Success Program.
The watch party will take place on Wednesday, April 15 and Thursday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at West City Campus Room 124 B. All students, employees, and allies are welcome to attend. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Know Your Rights Presentation and Performance
Join Uprise Theatre and the SDCCE DEIAA Committee for an engaging evening of legal education through theater. A local attorney will share a "Know Your Rights" segment, followed by performances that bring real-life scenarios to life.
Thursday, April 16 | 7–9 PM | SDCCE Main Campus, 1901 Main St, San Diego
Flex credit: ID# 38829 | RSVP Here
2026 Scholarship and Awards Program Honorees Announced
The Office of Student Affairs and the SDCCE Foundation are proud to announce the honorees of the 2026 Scholarship and Awards Program have been announced! This year, we received 321 applications and are thrilled to recognize 124 students, each receiving scholarships of at least $500.
These outstanding students will be celebrated at our Open House Scholarship and Awards Celebration on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 4 to 6 PM at the North City Campus. Join us as we honor their achievements in academics, personal growth, community service, and for exemplifying the very best of the San Diego College of Continuing Education!
Future Leaders Start Here—Encourage Your Students to Apply
Please encourage your students to apply for Student Government Executive Officer positions and take on a leadership role representing their peers across all CE campuses.
Positions: President & Student Trustee, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer
Deadline: April 10
Apply: https://tinyurl.com/ASCCEOfficerApp26
Questions: 619-388-1870 | SDCCEStudentAffairs@sdccd.edu
Thank you for supporting our future student leaders!
ECC Theatre Renovation
The ECC Theatre Renovation continues to make progress!
The construction site is active Monday - Friday, 7am - 3:30pm. Check out the demolition of the second level deck on the live stream link: ECC Theatre Renovation .
Here's an exclusive look into the newly renovated ECC Theatre, featuring upgraded lighting, seating, and more to enhance student and community performances.
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.
The new project sign is up by the second Mid-City Campus location.
Thank you to CE Mesa Campus, COS Clarence Singh for sharing his valuable insights during the second design meeting, helping shape a space that will benefit students and employees. View the recent Measure HH video here .
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.
We met last Friday to discuss upcoming events and future meetings aimed at enhancing the campus and community experience while increasing awareness of the resources available through the SIB 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.
Sixth Annual Emeritus Festival, Music You Will Love!
Come out to support the "Sixth Annual Emeritus Festival, Music You Will Love!", taking place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. (with two intermissions). This special afternoon of music will be held in person at Fletcher Hills Presbyterian Church in El Cajon. Concert proceeds will directly support the Emeritus Program, which provides free classes for adults in our community. We hope you'll join us for an inspiring event that celebrates lifelong learning and the joy of music.
Save The Date: Learning & Teaching Center Grand Opening
You are invited to the grand opening of the Learning & Teaching Center (LTC), led by the Instructional Learning Technology program at San Diego College of Continuing Education. Located at NCC Room 113, the LTC will serve as a hub for instructional design, distance education support, and faculty development to enhance high-quality teaching across all modalities.
Friday, April 17
10:00–11:30 a.m.
Ribbon Cutting: 10:30 a.m.
Open House & Brunch to Follow
Employees are encouraged to attend, explore the space, and learn how the LTC supports innovative, equitable teaching and student success. More details to come!
2026 Pre-Pride Month of Events
As we celebrate diversity and inclusion, I invite you to join us for the 2026 Pre-Pride Month of Events happening across all four San Diego Community College District colleges.
For a full list of Districtwide events, visit https://bit.ly/4sj0jq0 .
Classified Professional Spotlight
This week's Classified Professional Spotlight shines on our Instructional Lab Tech, Edgardo Madrid Jr.
Edgardo began his SDCCD journey in December 2016 as a Student Services Assistant at the ECC campus, later serving as (acting) Administrative Tech before stepping into his current role as Instructional Lab Tech in 2023. With nearly a decade in the District, he is passionate about working directly with students and supporting their educational journey.
Outside of work, Edgardo enjoys sleeping, cooking new recipes, golfing, bowling, and attending Padres games with his two sons. Three years ago, he and his sons started an annual tradition of visiting a baseball game in every MLB stadium—so far, they've visited three outside San Diego.
Reflecting on his career, Edgardo shares, "My time with SDCCD has been the most fulfilling and enjoyable work experience. The saying is true: when you love what you do, it no longer feels like a job."
Faculty Spotlight
This week's Faculty Spotlight shines on our ESL Instructor, Henry Nguyen!
Henry's journey with SDCCE comes full circle—starting as an ESL student at Mid-City in 2010 and returning as a faculty member in 2022. He often shares, "I am happy to be home," reflecting his deep connection to the college community.
As an immigrant who has experienced homelessness, Henry brings a powerful, student-centered perspective to his teaching, inspired by the resilience of his students. He has also taken on leadership and mentorship roles and is currently pursuing his doctorate in English Pedagogy.
Outside of work, Henry practices mindfulness at a local Buddhist sanctuary and supports Vietnamese elders in his community—demonstrating the compassion he brings into the classroom every day.
Foundation Spotlight
This month, our Foundation Spotlight shines on our Elevate U Program Coordinator, Francheska Morataya!
Francheska is passionate about supporting students and is dedicated to making a lasting impact in their educational journeys. Known for her energy and enthusiasm, she's always ready to guide, inspire, and advocate for students' success. And if you see her on campus, there's a good chance she has a coffee or matcha in hand—her favorite fuel to keep doing the work she loves!
Announcements
- Visit the Administrative Services Intranet to access campus safety resources and stay informed with the latest updates.
- We will be participating in a 4 x10 schedule this summer 2026. Please refer to the memo that was sent out via email of view it on the Intranet .
- Congratulations to Andre Harris and Julia Sanchez Molina on their election to the SPAA Board. We look forward to the impact they will make serving in these roles! Julia will serve as the Treasurer, and Andre will serve as the CE Site Director.
- Congrats to Dean Catherine Shafer on becoming a newly elected officer (Treasurer) of the San Diego Chapter of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (SDCAAWCC) serving the 2026–2028 term.
- Thank you to everyone who joined the second website user training with Communications and Creative Services, and KWALL. We'll continue updating the website and helping users become more comfortable navigating the site.
- 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'm honored to be part of the Aspen Presidents Fellowship, Cohort 3! We kicked off orientation today alongside an inspiring group of community college leaders from across the country, all dedicated to serving their students and communities. The Aspen Fellowship is designed to strengthen leadership, advance strategies for student success, and foster innovation and collaboration across our nation—and I'm excited for the journey ahead.
The Research Corner
This week, we invite you to check out a story "Workforce Pell Grant: Eligibility, Programs, Timeline" in The College Investor. Workforce Pell expands Pell Grants to shorter programs (8-15 weeks) but only if programs meet new outcome and quality rules. Students still have to file the FAFSA and qualify financially, but people who already have a bachelor's degree may be eligible for Workforce Pell in situations where they wouldn't qualify for a traditional Pell Grant. The article may be found on the following link: https://thecollegeinvestor.com/74628/workforce-pell-grant-eligibility/ . Please take a minute to review this resource and email jsalcedo001@sdccd.edu if you have any questions.
Best,
