Dear SDCCE Community,
Between welcoming new students, reconnecting with returning learners, and putting mental wellness at the forefront, it’s been an energizing start to fall at SDCCE. I’m inspired by the dedication I see across our campuses—faculty, classified professionals, administrators and students alike—coming together to create a supportive, thriving learning community. Thank you for the care and enthusiasm you bring to every interaction. Together, we’re setting the tone for a semester of growth, connection, and success.
Enrollment Updates
Fall Update
SDCCE’s overall enrollment for fall stands at 25,216 (0.3% more than this time last year, and a 5% increase from last week), with a fill rate of 69%, which is less than last fall (75%). SDCCE’s overall headcount is currently 13,827, a decrease of 1% compared to this time last fall (13,988) and a 3% increase from last week (13,438). FTEF scheduled for the fall semester is 6% greater than last fall (182.98 to 194.71). View report.
Summer Update
SDCCE’s overall enrollment for summer stands at 13,609 (5% less than this time last year), with a fill rate of 69%, which is less than last summer (77%). Headcount stands at 9,618, a decrease of 3% compared to this time last summer (9,886). 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.
Join Us for the Chancellor’s Forum
You’re invited to connect with colleagues at an upcoming presentation and open forum with the Chancellor to discuss key federal and state updates and priorities for the 2025–2026 academic year.
- Monday, September 22, 2025 | Cesar Chavez Campus – MPR Room 101/103 | 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
FLEX credit is available—sign up for Workshop 38043 – Chancellor’s Forum.
If accommodations are needed, please contact DeeDee Redulla.
The grand opening of the Be Well Center was a great success! Students and employees enjoyed guided tours of the new space, connected with the counselors, and learned about the many resources available to support their well-being—all while having fun over refreshments and ice cream. More than just a welcoming space, the Be Well Center provides access to mental health resources, stress management tools, and wellness activities designed to help students thrive academically and personally. Read more about the grand opening in the SDCCE News Room.
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.
ESL Program Updates
Thank you to our ESL Program Chair, Diana Vera-Alba, for keeping us up to date on this month’s important updates. Please see the list below.
Online Enrollment Deadline Extended to the Second Census Date
Thanks to collaboration with Admissions & Records, the enrollment deadline for Online, Hybrid, and Hyflex classes is now extended to the second census date. IAs and PAs are reaching out to waitlisted students and registering learners in open classes to maximize this opportunity.
Like other adult schools across California, SDCCE faces enrollment challenges, but our staff continue working hard to support CASAS testing, classroom assistance, and student registration.
A.S. Travel Pre-Authorization for CATESOL – Due Thursday, 9/11/25
The A.S. Conference Travel Pre-Authorization request is now live in the new ESL Faculty Resource Hub.
- All travel requests must be submitted 30 days before the conference.
- The A.S. Treasurer has raised the CATESOL allocation to $7,500, but total requests already exceed $12,000, enough to reimburse only 7–8 instructors in full.
If your request exceeds $800, please consider lowering it so more colleagues can receive support. Adjustments will automatically notify the ESL program chair.
Professional Development
The Flex calendar is live with many opportunities this semester—register on the SDCCE Flex Page to earn Flex credit.
CE ESL LGBTQ+ Focus Group
Thursday, 9/11/25 | 3–4 pm | Zoom
Join ESL Instructor Carol Basilio for the first monthly meeting focused on building visibility, equity, and inclusion for LGBTQ+ ESL teachers and students. Meetings will be held the 2nd Thursday of each month; Flex credit available.
Find more committee and interest group meetings in the ESL Faculty Resource Hub (see ESL Department Calendar).
There are new Smart Markets installed at the ECC student lounge and at CE Mesa — transforming how students access healthy snacks and essentials on campus. With quick, self-checkout technology and affordable options, the Smart Market makes it easier to grab nutritious food between classes, save time, and stay focused.
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. Below are some recent updates:
- Loud demolition activities are scheduled beginning 9/8/25 to 9/19/25.
- Heavy demolition of the east side main entrance stairs was completed to make way for new stairs and a future open concept lobby. In addition, the cinder block wall next to the kiln in the ceramics area has also been removed to make way for the new outdoor patio area for the Phase 2 community room.
- Progress is being made as to the safety of the security of the campus and construction areas. New temporary fencing will be installed by the first week of September. Along the westside fence line new security cameras and lighting will be installed to keep employees, students and community safe.
- Four new disabled parking spaces are now added on the east side of campus.
- 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.
PCL is doing their best to minimize and manage any disruptions to college operations, especially since the start of the fall semester.
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.
As a reminder, students can sign on to myportal.sdccd.edu and purchase a virtual parking permit using a credit card.
- No more waiting in long lines!
- No need to print or pick up a permit!
- No need to display a permit in your car’s window!
Permit pricing: $29 for summer; $40 each for fall and spring; $25 for students who qualify for a reduced price.
*Cash purchases can still be made at the College Police Office, cash permit stations, or the Cashier's window on campuses. More information is available at sdccd.edu/parking
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 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.
We are also implementing more support for employees who are assisting students during these situations. These efforts aim to provide space for reflection, support, and continued access to critical resources. Other items that are on our list is the development of mock trainings to deescalate tense matters and active training scenarios around navigating through challenging situations with ICE. I look forward to our next meeting to further these important conversations.
Please take a moment to review the new safety cards for navigating ICE incidents on campus, which were distributed during Convocation. These resources are designed to guide employees on the steps for reporting.
Stop by a Tech Bar for Single Sign On Support!
Need help with the new Single-Sign On (SSO) system or general tech assistance? Stop by a Tech Bar at our ECC or Mid-City campuses! The Tech Bar is designed to provide walk-up technology services to our students, faculty, and staff. Tech Bars are open at the following locations:
- Educational Cultural Complex from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday
- Mid-City Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., & 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Classified Professional Spotlight
This week’s Classified Professional Spotlight features Anthony Chhum, who has grown into a key role within the district, starting in Student Affairs and now serving as a Senior Student Services Assistant at the CE Miramar campus. A recent communications graduate with a minor in marketing from SDSU, Anthony brings energy, dedication, and a collaborative spirit to his work. Outside of the office, he enjoys reading, staying active at the gym, running marathons, and exploring the outdoors through hiking adventures.
Faculty Spotlight
This week’s Faculty Spotlight features Richard Gholson, an IT educator with over 15 years of experience. Richard plays a vital role in shaping and supporting curriculum development, taking leadership in program initiatives, and collaborating with other institutions to enhance learning opportunities. His efforts directly benefit students by ensuring courses are up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with industry standards, helping learners gain the skills they need to succeed in the evolving tech landscape.
- 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.
- Take a minute to fill out our Convocation Survey here. We truly value your input—please know that your responses are confidential and anonymous.
SDCCE Foundation News
SDCCE Foundation's Hoop Hysteria Fundraiser will now take place in Spring 2026. Be on the lookout for more updated information!
ABC 10 News recently highlighted the Foundation’s Apprenticeship Readiness Program, where Program Manager Noah Howard and both a current and former student discussed the rising interest in the construction field. Full coverage will be available soon.
President's Updates
Teaching and learning have always been a passion of mine. I'm excited to be teaching another course at SDSU on Educational Leadership. I look forward to engaging with students, fostering meaningful discussions, and helping each learner grow both academically and personally throughout the semester.
Dr. Foy and I had the pleasure of attending the United Way of San Diego County gala, "A Night United: Soaring Upward!" It was a beautiful event celebrating and supporting the incredible work being done in our community. As my first gala serving as a board member, it was truly a night to remember.
The Research Corner
This week we invite you to explore the report Building a Future-Ready Workforce: Highlighting Best Practices in ACCJC Member Institutions. This report gives multiple examples of workforce partnership programs between community colleges and employers, in which the college and the employing organization work together to create education and training programs that would best fit what the employer is looking for. These workforce partnerships enable colleges to give more relevant and actionable education to their students; students that attend colleges with these programs tend to have better employment outcomes. This document may be accessed here: Building a Future-Ready Workforce: Highlighting Best Practices in ACCJC Member Institutions. Please take a minute to review this resource and email jsalcedo001@sdccd.edu if you have any questions.
Best,
