Dear SDCCE Community,
As we continue to navigate recent ICE-related incidents near our campuses, the safety, well-being, and sense of belonging of our students and employees remain our top priorities.
Last week, the Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging Task Force convened to review current protocols and strengthen campus-level coordination. In collaboration with each campus's College Operations Supervisor (COS), we are advancing ongoing safety meetings and identifying opportunities to enhance support across our campuses. We are also working with the District to implement a Student Emergency Contact Form as an additional resource to support students when urgent situations arise.
To help ensure our employees have access to essential information, SDCCE safety protocols are available internally through the Administrative Services Intranet. Additionally, an ICE Protocol Q&A Session webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 20, to provide further information and guidance.
We will continue to approach this work with care, collaboration, and a commitment to keeping our community informed and supported. Please continue reading for this week's updates and important announcements.
Enrollment Updates:
Fall Update
SDCCE's overall enrollment for fall stands at 24,405 (a 2% increase from last week), with a fill rate of 68%, which is less than last fall (69%). SDCCE's overall headcount is currently 12,764, a 1% increase from last week (12,649). FTEF scheduled for the fall semester is 9% greater than last fall (197.58 to 215.29). 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 [email protected] for detailed information.
Lastly, you can utilize the anonymous sharing box. Your voice matters, and I look forward to continuing the conversation.
ICE Protocol Q&A Webinar
As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our campus informed and supported, please join our upcoming ICE Protocol Q&A Session Webinar on Thursday, October 22nd, 2026, from 2:00-3:30pm. Flex credit is available.
We are pleased to be joined by General Counsel Ljubiša Kostić to provide a clear overview of our campus safety protocols and procedures, and to answer questions.
As a reminder, please submit your questions by 4:00pm on October 20th
Join SDCCD Zoom Meeting or enter Meeting ID: 818 4669 1483, Passcode: sdcce
Groundbreaking Ceremony
We are thrilled to invite you to the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Educational Cultural Complex Ceramics Studio Renovation. This project is supported and funded by Measure HH. This exciting project is a significant step forward in enhancing and investing in student learning, creativity, safety, program capacity, and the future of arts education.
Save the Date!
- Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
- Location: Educational Cultural Complex (Patio between B & C Buildings) 4343 Ocean View Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113
Please join us as we celebrate the start of this remarkable project. The ceremony will feature special guests, inspiring speeches, a ceramics student showcase/fundraiser, and a glimpse into the future of this important arts space.
RSVP Today:
To help us prepare for the event, please RSVP via Eventbrite: https://SDCCECeramics2026.eventbrite.com
We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you!
Friendly reminder for California voters: Today is the last day to register online to vote in the 2026 General Election! Go to RegisterToVote.ca.gov and make sure your voice is heard this election.
SDCCE proudly attended Noche de Mole in Sherman Heights for a beautiful evening celebrating culture, community, and history!
The event provided a meaningful opportunity to honor the traditions, stories, and people who make our communities so vibrant. Gatherings like these remind us that culture connects us, history grounds us, and community strengthens us.
In recognition of National Coming Out Day, which was on October 11, 2026, Carol Basilio, lead of the ESL LGBTQIA+ Focus Group, developed a Sway informational webpage.
This page is for everyone to learn about National Coming Out Day. Use it however you like—to learn, to think, or simply to stay quiet. All of that is completely okay. You don't need to share anything, and you can read at your own pace. You do not need to log in to read this page. Nobody can see your name when you read it.
Also, check out the ESL LGBTQIA+ Focus Group SharePoint for more details and resources.
Filipino American History Month Celebration
Join us for our Filipino American History Month Celebration, Thursday, October 22, at the Educational Cultural Complex front lawn from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
This special celebration will feature poetry readings by Dominique Gil and Liana Ordoñez, group fitness with Arbie in Motion, and delicious food provided by Company Kitchen. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Filipino American culture and heritage, enjoy engaging activities, and connect with students and colleagues across our SDCCE community. Everyone is welcome!
Attending the event also offers an opportunity to earn a sticker for your "Culture Lives Here" booklet as you collect stickers at events throughout the year. Check-in will be required for the event. We hope to see you there!
For accommodations, please contact: [email protected]
Undocumented Student Success Week
Undocumented Student Success Week is here, taking place October 19-23rd, and we're creating space to connect, learn, and remind our undocumented students that they are seen, valued, and supported at SDCCE. Students can take part in opportunities throughout the week to learn about transfer pathways, understand their rights, and connect with community advocates and resources.
Monday, October 19 | Transfer Resources Webinar
Hear from UC and CSU representatives about university resources, transfer options, and next steps. Representatives will also answer questions and provide guidance to help students navigate their transfer journey.
Tuesday, October 20 | Know Your Rights Through Improv – Uprise Theater
This bilingual Spanish/English interactive performance brings together attorneys, community advocates, and improvisers to explore real-life scenarios and help participants better understand their rights and how to support one another.
Tuesday, October 20 | Pilates with ISSP Counselor Angie Sanchez-Castillo
Join ISSP Counselor Angie Sanchez-Castillo for a Pilates class designed to support your physical and emotional well-being. Take a break from academic and everyday pressures to unwind, release stress, and reconnect with yourself. All are welcome, bring your own mat or use a provided mat.
Thursday, October 22 | Navigating Pre-Health & Healthcare Careers As a Dreamer
A collaborative event with San Diego Miramar College and San Diego College of Continuing Education. Learn about pre-health and healthcare career pathways while gaining valuable resources, strategies, and support designed for undocumented students and professionals. RSVP via Zoom.
Wednesday, October 28 | Legally Brown: A Queer Chicana's Take on the Law
This presentation explores the law as a catalyst for social justice through a marginalized perspective, centering leadership and activism while inspiring students and community members to create meaningful change.
CalFresh Workshops
SDCCE CARES Basic Needs is hosting CalFresh Workshops throughout October to help students learn about CalFresh eligibility, ask questions, and receive support with the application process. Free snacks will be provided!
Wednesdays | 3 to 4:30 p.m.
- Oct. 21: Mid-City Campus, Room 308
- Oct. 28: Harbor View Campus, Room 208
Space is limited to 35 participants per workshop. RSVP using the QR code on the flyer. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability.
Questions or accommodations: [email protected]
Join the next Know Your Rights & Emergency Preparedness Workshop for Undocumented Families
Taller de Preparación de Emergencias y Derechos de Inmigrantes
Konnen Dwa ou yo ak Atelye Preparasyon pou Ijans pou Fanmi san Papye Aprann
Join us on Zoom / Acompáñenos en Zoom / Join nou sou Zoom: https://sdccd-edu.zoom.us/j/84797687743
Learn about immigrant rights and family safety planning. Facilitated by SDCCD's Equity & Special Funded Programs and presented by Higher Education Legal Services. This educational workshop is open to all allies. The presentation will be spoken in English with live translation services in Arabic, Dari, Haitian Creole, Somali, and Spanish. FLEX Available!
The next fall 2026 workshops will be held on October 21, 2026, November 18, 2026, and December 16, 2026. Each workshop starts at 6:30 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m.
For accessibility accommodations, contact Dean Lillian Garcia at [email protected].
In addition our Immigrant Student Success Program (ISSP) is here to listen to student concerns, assess their needs, and help connect them with appropriate campus and community resources. ISSP can be contacted at [email protected] or by phone at 619-388-1933.
ISSP Center Hours are Tuesdays: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Thursdays: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Help Us Pack the Pantry!
Did you know nearly 1 in 2 college students face food insecurity? We're on a mission to change that. October kicked off of the 8th Annual Pack the Pantry Food Drive!
We've partnered with Cal Coast Credit Union and the San Diego Food Bank to provide healthy, nutritious meals to students who need them most. Every $1 donated = 2 meals for a student in need. Let's come together to fight hunger and fuel futures.
Make a difference today, visit our virtual pantry to donate.
CE MediaFest 2026
CE MediaFest 2026 kicked off today at the West City Campus! To cultivate culture amongst all 7 of our campuses and celebrate the hard work of all our faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and NANCE, the Office of Communications & Creative Services will be providing free headshots, program promotional videos, opportunity drawings, social media FAQ, and more!
Please see the following lineup for when they will visit each campus:
- Mid-City Campus - October 21st - 4:00PM to 6:00pm - Room 117
- Harbor View Campus - October 27th - 12:00PM to 2:00PM - MPR
- North City Campus - October 28th - 4:00PM to 6:00PM - MPR
- CE Mesa Campus - November 3rd - 12:30PM to 2:30PM - Room 118/120
- ECC Campus - November 4th - 10:00AM - 12:00PM - Room 76
- CE Miramar - November 5th - 12:30PM - 2:30PM - Room A102
For any questions, details, or inquiries, please email Brenna Leon Sandeford at [email protected] & Michael Escalona at [email protected], or call us at 619-388-4833
SDCCE Safety Series
Join us for the SDCCE Safety Series, a collection of trainings designed to strengthen safety, preparedness, and awareness across our campuses. Registration is required, and Flex credit is available.
Upcoming trainings:
- Hands-Only CPR & AED Training — October 28
Learn basic CPR, how to respond to cardiac emergencies, and how to use an AED. - College Police Dispatch Workshop — October 20
Learn what to expect when contacting campus police, including how to use panic buttons, emergency call boxes, and the SDCCD Safe app. - Responding to ICE on Campus — Coming soon
Details will be announced as they become available.
Visit the SDCCE Campus Safety Page for registration, training details, and additional safety resources. Please email Anthony Vargas or Jasmine Duran with any questions or call 619-388-4915.
Chancellor's Fall Forum
Join us for an open conversation with Chancellor Smith about the issues that matter to you and our District.
- Monday, October 26, 2026
- 3 to 5 p.m.
- North City Campus, Room 101
- Flex credit is available: #40203
Bring your questions, perspectives, and ideas as we come together for meaningful conversation and community dialogue.
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.
- SDCCD Measure HH, SDCCE, architects, and construction teams met to discuss ECC Theatre construction updates, upcoming construction schedules, and shared progress photos.
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.
- A new Miramar College Measure HH project will begin in November impacting the CE Miramar Campus, A1 building. The project involves improvements to the fire land surrounding the area around the Aviation and Continuing Education (A1) buildings. Alternate routes of travel and parking have been identified and more signage will be posted in the area notifying students, employees, and visitors.
- As a secondary impact improvement project to the ECC Building Trades Training Center, to provide more space to the welding project, the grounds team and facilities office will be relocated to a new building location at ECC, at the corner of Elizabeth and Ocean view Blvd.
- A districtwide sidewalk assessment was recently completed at the ECC campus as part of the district's ongoing commitment to campus safety and accessibility. The assessment revealed several areas in the South Lawn which need correction. Concrete removal, root mitigation and concrete replacement are currently scheduled for October 13 - October 22 to improve pedestrian safety and restore accessible pathways throughout the campus. Small sections of the sidewalk will be temporarily closed during construction for safety reasons and can be identified by enclosed orange safety mesh fencing. Pedestrian access will remain open during construction; however, individuals requiring an accessible route should plan to use the perimeter sidewalks surrounding the campus while repair work is underway. Signage will be posted throughout the affected areas, and pedestrians should use caution while traveling near active construction areas.
Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging (SIB) Task Force Updates:
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.
Classified Professional Spotlight
This week's Classified Professional Spotlight shines on HVAC Mechanic Alberto Arballo.
Alberto has served the district for 14 and a half years, bringing decades of experience and technical expertise to his role. He began his career in the HVAC trade in 1989 as a helper and went on to complete two years of trade school. Since then, he has dedicated his career to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, helping maintain comfortable and functional learning and working environments across the district.
Outside of work, Alberto enjoys staying active. He practiced judo for 14 years and now spends his free time mountain biking and working out at the gym. His commitment to his craft and passion for an active lifestyle reflect the dedication and discipline he brings to both his professional and personal life.
Faculty Spotlight
This week's Faculty Spotlight shines on ESL Instructor Amanda Simons.
Amanda joined SDCCE in Spring 2023, bringing a wealth of experience teaching English to students from diverse backgrounds.
A self-described grammar enthusiast, Amanda's passion for teaching stems from her love of linguistics and her experiences working with hardworking and dedicated ESL students.
Beyond the classroom, Amanda is actively involved in community advocacy; her volunteer work with organizations including the City Heights Defense Committee, Haitian Bridge Alliance, and City College's Emergency Response Coalition has informed her teaching and strengthened her commitment to connecting students with resources and support. Amanda also contributes to SDCCE through her service on the Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging Task Force and her involvement in CATESOL, the AFT union, the ESL Department's Teachers Using Technology Committee, and community of practice focused on immigration rights, safety, and advocacy.
Outside of work, Amanda volunteers with rescue cats, enjoys swimming, and taking classes in SDCCE's Clothing and Textiles Department. She also enjoys debating all things language with her partner, a linguistics professor at San Diego State University.
Manager Spotlight
This week's Manager Spotlight shines on Dean of Counseling and Career Transition Services, Dr. Roberta Krauss.
Dr. Krauss has been part of SDCCE since 2017, first serving as a counselor and later as the Director of CalWORKs before stepping into her current role in 2022. With more than 15 years of experience in higher education, she is dedicated to student success, career development, and expanding opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
Her work is guided by the belief that education can transform lives and that students need more access, not more barriers. Throughout her career, Dr. Krauss has supported first-generation college students, adult learners, immigrant and refugee students, and individuals navigating financial, personal, and educational challenges. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to developing programs and support services that help students achieve their goals, complete their education, and transition into meaningful careers.
Dr. Krauss is passionate about fostering collaboration, supporting the teams and professionals who serve students, and creating equitable pathways to success. She finds fulfillment in knowing that this work can make a lasting difference in the lives of students, their families, and their communities.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and traveling around the world. She loves exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and learning from the people and communities she encounters. Traveling broadens her perspective and deepens her appreciation for the diversity that makes our world so special.
Resources and Reminders
- Do you know an employee making a difference at SDCCE? Help us recognize those outstanding contributions by submitting an Employee Spotlight ! Selected spotlights will be featured in future editions of the weekly President's Message and other college communications as we celebrate the people who make SDCCE an exceptional place to learn and work.
- Visit the Administrative Services Intranet to access campus safety resources and stay informed with the latest updates.
- 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.
President's Updates
- I recently enjoyed filming with our Communications and Creative Services Team regarding the Campus Built Together Campaign as we embark on a new permanent name for our Harbor View Campus. It was exciting to spotlight this important initiative and the collaborative work underway to ensure our campus's future name reflects the voices, experiences, and aspirations of the community we serve. We're making meaningful progress, and I look forward to sharing more as this journey continues. Stay tuned!
- A big thank you to everyone who has joined me for Walks with the President recently! I've loved getting out, connecting with you all, and adding steps and miles together. Looking forward to more walks and great conversations along the way!
The Research Corner
This week, we invite you to read a report "The State of Higher Education 2026 Valued But Out of Reach: The Reality of Higher Education Today". Lumina Foundation and Gallup have partnered to produce the annual study since 2020, which measures U.S. adults' attitudes toward education and training beyond high school, their interest in pursuing a degree or credential, the barriers they face to enrolling or completing a program, and the currently enrolled student experience.The 2026 study includes responses from just over 14,000 U.S. adults aged 18 to 59 who do not have a college degree. The study may be found on the following link. Please take a minute to review this resource and email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Best,
