Dear SDCCE Community,
Welcome back from the 4/10 schedule as we are now gearing up for the fall with all hands on deck. Fall Convocation is just around the corner, and I’m excited to celebrate the remarkable progress we’ve made together and share the future goals and plans in the new academic year. With a new semester fast approaching, this is the perfect moment to come together, reflect on our achievements, and set the tone for the exciting year ahead.
Enrollment Updates
Fall Update
SDCCE’s overall enrollment for fall stands at 21,307 (2% less than this time last year, and a 7% increase from last week), with a fill rate of 64%, which is less than last summer (67%). SDCCE’s overall headcount is currently 11,911, a decrease of 4% compared to this time last summer (12,420) and a 6% increase from last week (11,213). FTEF scheduled for the summer semester is 5% greater than last summer (180.90 to 190.46). View the enrollment report.
Summer Update
SDCCE’s overall enrollment for summer stands at 13,696 (4% less than this time last year, and a 2% decrease from last week), with a fill rate of 69%, which is less than last summer (78%). SDCCE’s overall headcount is currently 9,653, a decrease of 2% compared to this time last summer (9,893) and a 1% decrease from last week (9,722). FTEF scheduled for the summer semester is 11% greater than last summer (72.13 to 80.09).
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.
Save the Date for Fall Convocation
Join us for Fall Convocation on Monday August 25, 2025, 9:00 AM at the San Diego Central Library for a day celebrating the collaboration, shared purpose, and collective strength that define SDCCE. Hear from our college leadership, Chancellor, Board of Trustees, and keynote speaker Tim Wise as we reflect, find inspiration, and look ahead to the future of our college and the students we serve.
Please confirm your attendance with your supervisor and submit your RSVP. Space is limited and we are almost at capacity.
If you plan to attend the Fall Convocation, RSVP is required to receive complimentary parking validation at check-in, along with exclusive limited-edition convocation swag. We strongly encourage carpooling, ride-sharing, and using public transportation whenever possible and recommend arriving early, as doors will open at 7:30 a.m., with the program starting promptly at 9:00 a.m.
Free Parking for the event will be available at two locations: 80 spots at the San Diego Central Library Underground Parking (330 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101) open on a first come first served basis and designated for special guests, those with a handicap placard or individuals needing special assistance or 120 spots across the street at the Padres Parkade (440 11th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101).
To enhance your convenience, a 56-passenger complimentary shuttle service will be available for employees from the César E. Chávez Campus National Ave. Parking Structure.
- Morning pickups from Chavez: 7:15 a.m. and 7:45 a.m.
- Afternoon drop-offs leaving the library: 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
- Shuttle capacity: 56 passengers per trip, 112 total across two trips (first come, first served)
- Note: Shuttle times may be affected by traffic delays. If you must meet a specific time, consider parking at the library.
For more details, including additional parking FAQs, please visit the registration page.
Also, the list of professional learning sessions happening during Flex days are accessible here: Department Meeting and Flex Session Document
Fall 2025 Enrollment
Fall classes begin August 28, and enrollment is climbing. We look forward to welcoming both new and returning students as they take advantage of our online and hybrid certificate programs, along with the wide range of support services available to set our students on the path to success.
Welcome Week
The Outreach team is preparing to host Welcome Week at the ECC Welcome Center for two full days dedicated to all things enrollment.
Location: Educational Cultural Complex – Room 128
Dates & Times:
- Thursday, August 28 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday, August 29 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Encourage students to:
- Get help with registration
- Ask questions and get one-on-one support
*Also, please remind students to show the outreach team that they are registered for a 2025 course to receive FREE CE-branded swag!
Southeastern Connect microtransit pilot has recently launched! This new community-designed service—free for the first three months—provides zero-emission, on-demand rides, making it easier for residents to travel affordably, safely, and sustainably within our neighborhoods.
Southeastern Connect is a new on-demand mobility option that will connect students and families to key destinations within Mt. Hope, Chollas View, Emerald Hills, and more.
Show Your SDCCE Pride!
Explore our official online store for a wide selection of SDCCE swag and merchandise—from cozy hoodies, sweatshirts to bucket hats. For SDCCE swag and merch, visit the online store and start shopping today!
ECC Theatre Renovation
The ECC Theatre Renovation is underway! Signs have been placed around campus outlining the construction. There will be important upcoming construction activities to make note of:
There will be loud noise activity taking place now through August 22 near the north stair lobby area between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM.
Please be advised:
- Noise may carry into surrounding areas during work hours.
Construction work will generally occur Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Loud Noise Notice signage will be posted throughout the campus to ensure awareness.
Visit the project webpage to learn more and stay up to date.
Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging (SIB) Task Force Updates
In our last meeting, we discussed 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. Helpful handouts are being developed by the District and will be distributed for the start of the fall semester. These resources are designed to guide employees on the steps for reporting. We are also implementing more support for employees who are supporting students during these situations. These efforts aim to provide space for reflection, support, and continued access to critical resources. I look forward to our next meeting scheduled on Thursday, August 21 to further these important conversations.
Additionally, the next Know Your Rights Event is approaching soon!
Date: August 19, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Title: Immigration Legal Consults at SDCCE, Cesar Chavez Campus (Room 214)
Event Information:
Jewish Family Service’s Higher Education Legal Services (HELS) will be on campus offering free, brief one-on-one immigration legal consultations for California Community College students, staff, and faculty. Registration is required in advance. Haitian Creole interpretation available. Register Here.
A heartfelt thank you to the Task Force for your continued support, to the dedicated ISSP Team, and counselor Fatima Mota for your ongoing efforts to ensure our students have access to the resources and care they need—especially during these challenging times.
SDCCE CARES began their food recovery partnership with the UCSD Basic Needs Hub. CARES will receive weekly food items recovered from UCSD's hospital sites (Alvarado and Hillcrest) to distribute to our Mid-City campus. A big thank you to our SDCCE Foundation and UCSD for their continued support of our SDCCE Basic Needs program.
Last week was filled with productive retreats, bringing together Instructional Services, led by Dr. Omae at the VEBA Center, and Student Services, led by Dr. Carter, at the Chavez campus. These sessions provided space to align priorities, strengthen collaboration, and focus on strategies that will enhance student success as we prepare for the fall semester.
Our Rising Scholars Counselor, Nathan Klein, has been actively building connections and representing SDCCE at a recent conference. His work continues to strengthen partnerships, expand opportunities, and ensure our Rising Scholars have the resources and support they need to thrive.
Be Well CCE
Check out the upcoming Be Well CCE support group opportunities to boost your well-being this semester!
Weekly Student Support Group
“This Thing Called Life” is hosted on Wednesdays for students only at 12:30PM. Meeting ID: 884 0608 7923 https://sdccd-edu.zoom.us/j/88406087923
Weekly Employee Support Group
“Think it Through Thursdays” is hosted on Thursdays for employees only at 12:30PM. Flex Credit Available Meeting ID: 879 8336 9490 https://sdccd-edu.zoom.us/j/87983369490
Classified Professional Spotlight
Our Classified Spotlight shines on Destiny Castaneda, who joined SDCCE as a Student Services Technician at CE Mesa after relocating from Bakersfield, where she previously worked at Bakersfield College. Destiny is a key member of our Student Services team, assisting students with class enrollment and resolving more complex admissions and enrollment matters. Her dedication and expertise ensure that students receive the guidance and support they need to successfully navigate challenges and achieve their educational goals.
Faculty Spotlight
Our Faculty Spotlight shines on Dr. Aaron Iffland, Chair and faculty of Business, Accounting, and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Iffland has also been a great support and faculty leader with the A.I.R. Initiative. With over a decade of experience teaching adult learners, Dr. Iffland brings a wealth of knowledge and industry expertise to SDCCE. In addition to his work as a technical trainer, network analyst, and private consultant, he earned his Ph.D. in Education from Claremont Graduate University and San Diego State University. Dr. Iffland places student success at the forefront of everything he does, guiding and inspiring learners to achieve their goals. We are grateful for the leadership and lasting impact he continues to make at SDCCE in preparing students for success in business, accounting, and entrepreneurship.
- 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.
SDCCE Foundation News
SDCCE Foundation's Hoop Hysteria Fundraiser is happening this upcoming October 11 & 12—uniting community members, students, and employees for a high-energy basketball event aimed at raising funds for student scholarships and programs. Learn more details on how to have fun for a good cause!
President's Updates
It was an honor to attend the Latinx CEO Convening, sponsored by UC Davis Wheelhouse Institute, COLEGAS, and Santa Rosa Junior College—thank you to President Garcia for hosting. I’m grateful for the time shared with colleagues, especially my colega, Star Rivera Lacey, whose support and wisdom inspire me. I look forward to applying what we learned to strengthen SDCCE!
The Research Corner
This week we invite you to explore the documents from The RP Group (Research, Planning & Professional Development for California Community Colleges) titled Outcomes from RP 2022-24 EDI Action Plan. This document examines the results of the RP Group's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Plan which had two main goals: to increase demographic diversification over the 2021 baseline figures and to develop internal and external constituents' skills and competencies related to advancing racial equity. The document shows what the RP group aimed to accomplish, what was actually accomplished, progress through June 2024, and what's next. This document may be accessed here: Outcomes from RP 2022-24 EDI Action Plan. Please take a minute to review this resource and email jsalcedo001@sdccd.edu if you have any questions.
Best,
