Dear SDCCE Community,

As we do each fall, very soon we will gather to celebrate the beginning of a new academic year and to honor our faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and students during SDCCE's annual Convocation.

This year, we've been able to coordinate something unique and new for this wonderful event. For the first time, we worked with the Professional Development Committee to select and vote on a theme. The theme with the highest selection of votes is: The Future is Bright: Centering Culture & Community to Strengthen our Tapestry.

Additionally, and in the spirit of inclusivity, I am enthusiastic to share another change that will give Classified Professionals the opportunity to participate in Convocation. On August 31, 2022, the first day of Convocation, all SDCCE campuses will be closed from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. so that every scheduled faculty member, classified professional, and administrator has the opportunity to attend day one of Convocation as a professional development opportunity.

Current Schedule for August 31, 2022*

• 8:30 to 9 a.m. - Arrive at ECC, check-in, and connect with colleagues
• 9 to 11:30 a.m. - Presentations in the theatre
• 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Luncheon and connect with colleagues
• 1 to 2 p.m. - Classified Professionals come together for group professional development and inspiration
• 2 to 2:30 p.m. - Classified professionals return to respective campuses and resume regular workday schedule
• 1 to 4 p.m. - Program meetings led by deans and administrators

*Please note that NANC employees will not be scheduled during this time. Employees who do not wish to participate will be able to adjust schedules to work extended hours. Please confirm your attendance or adjusted work hours with your supervisor.

For the past two years, we have lost the opportunity to meet in person for Convocation. I feel strongly that everyone in our college is included and shares in the energy that connects us during this annual event. This year will be a trial model with closing our campuses for part of the first day of Convocation, and we will assess any impacts that will help us make decisions for future years.

Communication that SDCCE campuses will observe professional development and will be closed on August 31, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. will begin Friday, August 12. This communication will include a message and banner on sdcce.edu and posted signage in common areas and near exterior doors on campuses.

Convocation is such an exciting day and an opportunity for our college and our camaraderie. Attendees will receive a symbolic-themed t-shirt and many professional development tools will be shared. I look forward to coming together and seeing many of you whom I've already had the opportunity to greet, and to being introduced to those whom I've yet to meet.

Please RSVP today for Day One of Convocation on August 31, 2022.

Best,