Dear SDCCE Community,
As we move forward from the recent cyber situation impacting District operations, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the resilience, patience, and unwavering commitment demonstrated across our SDCCE community. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our District teams, IT professionals, faculty, classified professionals, and administrators, critical systems have been restored and services are continuing to stabilize.
While this situation presented unexpected challenges, what remained constant was our shared dedication to student success. Throughout this time, our employees continued to show up for students with compassion, creativity, and determination — ensuring learning, support services, and opportunities for growth continued despite the obstacles.
I am deeply grateful for the hard work, flexibility, and collaboration displayed by every member of our community. Your commitment reflects the very heart of SDCCE and our mission to uplift and empower the students we serve every day.
Thank you for your continued perseverance and partnership as we move ahead together.
Enrollment Updates:
Spring Update
SDCCE's overall enrollment for spring stands at 27,216 (10% less than this time last year) with a fill rate of 65%, which is less than last spring (71%). SDCCE's overall headcount is currently 14,418, a decrease of 8% compared to this time last spring (15,718). FTEF scheduled for the spring semester is 9% greater than last spring (196.07 to 214.30). View report.
Summer Update
Summer enrollment opened May 4. We will be providing an update on summer enrollment when available.
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 [email protected] for detailed information.
Lastly, you can utilize the anonymous sharing box. Your voice matters, and I look forward to continuing the conversation.
My heart is heavy for the victims, families, and everyone impacted by today's shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego. In moments like these, our community grieves together, and we stand in solidarity with all those experiencing pain, fear, and heartbreak. Please know that you are not alone, and support, care, and community are here for you during this difficult time.
Students: Connect with Be Well CCE or with TimelyCare — a free 24/7 mental health and wellness support. For immediate crisis support, call TimelyCare CrisisNow at 858-396-1613.
Employees: The Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) offers free, confidential support 24/7. Call 888-625-4809 or visit liveandworkwell.com (access code: VEBA).
As we look ahead to Commencement on June 2, 2026 at the Town and Country Resort, please remind students to connect with a counselor to develop their educational plan, request their diploma, and apply for graduation.
Key Commencement updates and information have been added on the Commencement Webpage, please encourage students to review it for items such as:
- Eligibility requirements
- Participation form details
- Cap and gown information
- Commencement speaker opportunities
- Accommodations
- Location information and more
Please contact the Office of Student Affairs at [email protected] for any additional questions
GradFest takes place tomorrow and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at North City. Please encourage students to attend to pick up important graduation materials and prepare for commencement celebrations. This is a great opportunity for graduates to make sure they are fully prepared for the big day!
Haitian Flag Day
Today, we also recognize Haitian Flag Day, a celebration of Haitian history, culture, resilience, and pride. Observed each year on May 18, Haitian Flag Day commemorates the creation of the Haitian flag and honors the strength and contributions of the Haitian community around the world. We celebrate the rich cultural heritage and enduring spirit that continue to inspire communities everywhere and right here at SDCCE!
Memorial Day Reminder
For the Memorial Day holiday, all offices will be closed on Monday, May 25. Employees will have the day off as we honor and remember the brave individuals who served our country.
I hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful holiday weekend.
We are thrilled to highlight the most recent Lincoln High School students who have completed coursework through our Career Compass concurrent enrollment program! What began as a small group in HVAC has grown to include students in Automotive and Welding, with plans to expand into CNA courses this fall. Several students will continue their studies over the summer and into the upcoming fall semester.
On a special note, all of our HVAC students passed at least one exam section with four achieving full universal certification, a remarkable accomplishment! Last Tuesday, we celebrated these hardworking students at their high school site with a taco bar, gift cards, tool kits, and CE swag, recognizing their dedication and achievements. We look forward to welcoming them on stage for commencement on June 2, where their hard work will be celebrated by the entire campus community.
The Classified Service Awards was a special celebration recognizing the dedication, hard work, and lasting impact of our Classified Professionals.
From years of service milestones to outstanding contributions across departments, the event honored the individuals who help keep our campuses and communities thriving every day. Their commitment, professionalism, and support do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful to celebrate all they do for SDCCE students and colleagues.
Congratulations to all award recipients and honorees!
View more captured moments on our SDCCE Flickr.
The GLOBAL MINDS 3rd Annual Mental Health Fair was a powerful celebration of community and connection.
Students, employees, and community members came together to enjoy great food, live music, and meaningful conversations centered on wellness, belonging, and support. The event highlighted the diversity that makes SDCCE so special while reaffirming our commitment to creating a space where students feel seen, supported, and safe.
At SDCCE, we are proud to be more than a college of opportunity — we are a community grounded in hope, inclusion, and care for every student we serve.
Honoring a milestone of growth, commitment, and compassion in action! Our CNA graduates were honored at a recent pinning ceremony, marking an important step in their journey into the healthcare field. We are proud of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to serving others.
Join us in celebrating these future healthcare professionals and view more highlights from the CNA pinning ceremony here.
CE Student Media Fest: "Oh, the Places You'll Go" hosted by Communications and Creative Services was an incredible success!
Across each campus stop, students showed up ready to invest in themselves, elevate their professional brand, and prepare for the next step in their academic and career journeys. From free professional headshots and resume support to on-camera interview practice, career resources, and connections to credit college pathways, the event created meaningful opportunities for students to build confidence and showcase their potential.
We are appreciative of all students, employees, and partners who helped make this event impactful and memorable. The future is bright, and we can't wait to see all the places our students will go!
View more photos on our SDCCE Flickr.
AANHPI Heritage Month
Join us for a vibrant afternoon of culture, creativity, and community as we celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The event will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. on the front lawn of the Educational Cultural Complex (4343 Ocean View Blvd). Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere filled with connection and celebration—lunch will be provided!
For accommodations, please contact: [email protected]
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.
ECC Theatre Turns 50!
ECC Theatre turned 50 last Friday, and these archived photos are a beautiful reminder of how this space has inspired, uplifted, and served the community for generations.
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 immigration and safety 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.
The Annual Lavender Celebration was a beautiful evening of community, recognition, and pride as we honored the accomplishments and contributions of our LGBTQIA+ students.
Students, employees, families, and supporters came together at Harbor View Campus to celebrate academic achievements, scholarship and grant recognitions, and the resilience and success of our incredible students. The evening created a welcoming space filled with encouragement, connection, and inspiration as we uplifted the voices and journeys of the LGBTQIA+ community. Take a look at more special moments on our SDCCE Flickr.
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 Technician/All Trades, Alexander Munoz.
For the past 7 years, Alexander has been dedicated to supporting departments across campus while helping students succeed every step of the way. His willingness to lend a hand and positive attitude make him a valued part of the SDCCE community.
Outside of work, Alexander enjoys traveling, taking spin classes, and running — always staying active and exploring new experiences.
Thank you, Alexander, for all you do for SDCCE!
Faculty Spotlight
This week's spotlight shines on CalWORKs Counselor Diya Spellman, whose career has been rooted in supporting student success and empowering communities.
Diya joined the college in 1997 as a program counselor for several pilot programs, serving in that role for six years. In 2004, she embraced the challenge as a coordinator at the Mid-City Campus, helping support the growing number of immigrant students arriving in the United States. She later transitioned into her current role as a CalWORKs Counselor, where she continues to guide and uplift students on their educational journeys.
With nearly three decades of dedicated service, Diya continues to find purpose and fulfillment in helping students navigate their educational pathways and life goals.
Outside of work, she enjoys water aerobics, cooking, and spending time with family.
I would like to extend a special shoutout to Acting Administrative Technician in Instructional Services, Blanca Estrada Miranda, who played a key role in supporting the success of the Faculty Summit and seamlessly stepped into a new role within just one month. Thank you for all that you do and for the dedication you bring to every space you support.
Announcements and Reminders
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 .
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 am honored to serve on the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts San Diego and attend this year's Cool Women Celebration. It was an inspiring evening celebrating women who continue to uplift, empower, and lead with purpose. Congratulations to this year's Cool Women recipients!
Congratulations to Yahir Melendez for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and service in representing the student voice. As Student Trustee and Associated Students President, Yahir has worked tirelessly to advocate for students and support the campus community with passion and integrity. At the recent Board of Trustees meeting, Yahir was recognized alongside his fellow student trustees with a special award honoring their service and contributions. We are incredibly proud of Yahir and grateful for the impact he has made through his leadership, commitment, and accomplishments this academic year.
The Research Corner:
This week, we invite you to read a study "Latina Wage Gap Disparities Across California Counties" by UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center. According to the study, Latinas in the US earn significantly lower hourly wages than non-Hispanic white men (49 cents for every dollar) and on average, less then women from other racial and ethnic groups. The study may be found on the following link: https://www.chicano.ucla.edu/files/California-Latina%20Wage%20Gap%20Report-Oct.2025-UCLA%20Latina%20Futures%202050%20Lab-FINAL.pdf. Please take a minute to review this resource and email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Best,
