Weekly News Brief | December 10, 2021
From the Office of Chancellor John Weispfenning, Ph.D.

Adapted from the original message sent Thursday, December 9, 2021. Click here to watch the video on YouTube. The news release on the announcement may be found here.

On Wednesday, December 8, I announced to the Board of Trustees that I will be retiring on September 1, 2022. My feelings on this are mixed. Being selected as chancellor in 2016 was the greatest honor of my career, and one of the most meaningful moments of my life. I deeply appreciate the encouragement from Trustees and others to stay, but this is the right time for me to move to the next stage of my life.

And, despite everything thrown at us in the last two years, the District is in a strong position for the future. We have built this strong foundation together. Literally, in the case of the many projects made possible by Measure M, with taxpayer support for facilities and upgrades at all three of the colleges. The development of the Vision 2030 strategic facilities plan offers a roadmap to continue to maintain these world-class colleges.

More figuratively, we have laid new foundations for our dual and concurrent enrollment programs. And, I am particularly mindful of our work in diversity, equity, and inclusion. I have seen a great shift in the way all offices and departments now see DEI as part of our shared mission and purpose.

Purpose is something those of us in education are fortunate to always enjoy. Every student's journey renews the meaning in the work we do. I am so grateful for my decades being part of that work, especially my time here at the Coast District. As this stage of my career nears an end, I look forward to our remaining months working together. There are many great things we will continue to accomplish in 2022.

Be well,

 John

John Weispfenning, Ph.D.
Chancellor

Update on in-person operations and services

In conversations at District Consultation Council on Monday, December 6, it was decided that we would hold on the current phase of the beyond the blueprint staffing plan through the start of the spring semester – that is three days of in-person services and operations for most departments and offices. The District Consultation Council meets again on February 14, 2022. Additional information on the Coast District's COVID-19 response is available here.

Report from the Board of Trustees

On Wednesday, December 8, 2021, adopting an initial proposal for bargaining with the Coast Federation of Classified Employees. Trustees also set a date for an initial special meeting on redistricting for January 5, 2022, and appointed an ad hoc committee to address goal setting. The Board further recognized those achieving emeritus and meritorious status.

Vice Chancellor Serban and representatives from Coastline, Golden West, and Orange Coast presented on Career Technical Education (CTE). Among the highlights were the ways in which new, expanding, and high-achieving programs adjusted for virtual learning. Plans for returns to more in-person offerings were also discussed. Trustees lauded the programs and requested an annual update.

Vice Chancellor Dunn presented the quarterly budget report to be provided to the State Chancellor's Office. Dr. Dunn shared that the budget is proceeding as projected. The Board subsequently approved related budget revisions, budget transfers, and approved the issuance of refunding bonds to save taxpayers $9 million. Internal Auditor Rachel Snell also provided a quarterly report on improvements to internal control processes.

Chancellor Weispfenning announced his retirement effective September 1, 2022. Trustees offered words of appreciation for the Chancellor's past six years of leadership and shared achievements of the Coast District during that time.

The Board adjourned in memory of Erik Hobbs, program analyst in IT at the District Office, Adrian Delgado, assistant coach with women's volleyball at Orange Coast for 25 years, Frank Miller, retired Vice President of Instruction at Orange Coast, and Mauro Moreno, a Coastline student.

College News

Schedule, Week of December 13

Chancellor's Schedule
Dr. Weispfenning in the District, Monday through Thursday
Dr. Serban is acting chancellor, Friday