Santa Monica College... is experiencing a renaissance of creativity and constructive collaboration. The college culture values innovation, originality, and student-centeredness.”

“Santa Monica College is actively engaged in providing excellent student learning programs and services for its students.”

“Student Support Services at Santa Monica College are comprehensive, diverse, and targeted at student access, inclusion, and success…. Students are the central focus and programs are developed to adapt to the changing needs of the student body.”

“Trustees are all activists in the community and ... .are dedicated to enhancing and forging new linkages to surrounding agencies and feeder school districts”

“There is an environment of openess, of optimism, and of excitement in spite of a gloomy budget situation external to the college.”

“The Independent Auditor’s Report listed zero audit findings, an outstanding accomplishment. The audit statements demonstrate the college’s ability to manage their finances responsibly, timely, accurately, and with integrity.”

“Santa Monica College has adopted sustainability as a college value and goal. The college is a leader among community colleges in incorporating sustainable practices into the fabric of the college. ... this college is an exemplary model of sustainable operational practices.”

“...resiliency and spirit of innovation ... are the hallmarks of Santa Monica College.”

I believe these quotes accurately reflect the culture and quality of SMC and I am proud to have had a hand in both supporting and nurturing these characteristics.

It has been a busy and interesting four years for me. I have tried to be thoughtful, collaborative, and accessible in my role as a trustee. I am committed to student achievement, community involvement, and strategic partnerships. As a Board we have made great strides in building beautiful new facilities, opening the Broad Stage, acquiring land for a Malibu center, and advancing sustainability, global citizenship, and fiscal responsibility.

As Chair in 2009, I worked diligently to promote inclusiveness, transparency, and respectfulness in all Board affairs. I am very pleased that thus far, even in the midst of the State budget crisis, SMC stakeholders are working together collaboratively and collegially, maintaining fiscal responsibility while putting students first.

This past year I began two new ventures to enhance my ability to serve SMC. I just completed my first year as a doctoral student at UCLA in the Educational Leadership Program.  My studies at UCLA deepen my knowledge and strengthen my skills and value as a trustee.

In April, I was elected to serve on the California Community College Trustees (CCCT) Board of Directors. I go to Sacramento, work with trustees from around the state, and meet with legislators on behalf of California’s community colleges and SMC.

I enjoy and value my service as an SMC trustee. I believe that I, along with my fellow board members, our wonderful president-superintendent, and our remarkable, dedicated faculty and staff, have done a good job for our students and our community. I hope you agree.

Please don’t hesitate to email me if you have any questions or concerns.  I look forward to continuing to serve you, our community, and our students. Santa Monica College is a wonderful institution and a wonderful asset to our community. I will do my utmost to ensure SMC’s continued success.

Thank you for your support.

Cheers and Onward,