Educational Cultural Complex Theater Renovation

Shaping a Vibrant Future through Community-Driven Design

ECC Theater Stage

A Stage with a Storied Legacy

Whoopi GoldbergJames AveryShirley CaesarCorretta Scott KingStevie WonderMaya AngelouRev. Jesse JacksonMuhammad AliDr. Cornel WestDr. Shirley Weber

The Educational Cultural Complex (ECC) has long served as a vibrant center for performance, dialogue, and social change. Throughout its history, ECC has welcomed an extraordinary array of artists, activists, and cultural icons to its theater stage:​

  • Whoopi Goldberg – Actress and cultural icon
  • James Avery – Acclaimed actor
  • Shirley Caesar – Gospel music legend
  • Coretta Scott King – Civil rights leader
  • Stevie Wonder – Musical icon
  • Maya Angelou – Poet, author, and activist
  • Rev. Jesse Jackson – Civil rights leader and public servant
  • Muhammad Ali – World-renowned athlete and humanitarian
  • Dr. Cornel West – Philosopher, author, and social critic
  • Dr. Shirley Weber – California Secretary of State and civil rights advocate​

Their appearances reflect SDCCE's ongoing commitment to honoring diverse voices and enriching the community through the power of the arts and civic engagement.

Project Overview

Background

In 2021, California Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins announced a $35 million state grant to renovate the historic Educational Cultural Complex (ECC) theater. This transformative project is designed to revitalize ECC’s institutional identity, preserve its rich cultural heritage, and expand educational opportunities for future generations.

In addition to state grant funding, the renovation will be funded by Measure HH, a $3.5 billion bond approved to provide for new and renovated classrooms, labs, and other facilities at campuses throughout the San Diego Community College District.

Key Features

  • Modernized theater facilities
  • Enhanced community spaces
  • New "Living Archive" cultural center
  • Improved accessibility
  • Expanded educational resources

Project Timeline

Design Completion
December 16, 2024

DSA design review completion expected

Bid Process Begins
March 2025

Construction bid sets sent out

Board Approval
April/May 2025

Board of Trustees project approval

Ground Breaking Ceremony
May 8, 2025

Construction Starts
May/June 2025

Beginning of renovation construction

Expected Completion
December 2026

Final completion of renovation

Location & Contact

Educational Cultural Complex

4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA

For more information about the renovation project, please contact SDCCE Administrative Services.

Jacqueline Sabanos

Vice President, Administrative Services

Anthony Vargas

Director, College Facilities and Operations