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During Tuesday's State of the State, Governor Newsom praised the community colleges for empowering people to thrive. Coastline, Golden West, and Orange Coast are, without doubt, one of the surest pathways to economic success in the lives of Orange County students. Research and our own lived experiences also suggest that college is a path to healthier and happier life.
Education should last a lifetime. What I think we provide in the community colleges generally, and in the Coast District specifically, is a focus on durable skills. Our degree, certificate, and transfer programs get students to their first jobs, then look beyond to what will get them through to their last jobs. We don't know our graduates' path with any certainty, but neither do they. Changing jobs, even careers, is now the rule rather than the exception.
If we are to be the pathway to a successful career and better life, we must maintain focus on those durable skills and talents. Technologies will come and go, tools will change, yet a meaningful education grounded in curiosity and critical thinking will endure.
On another note, thank you to all who helped mark International Women's Day. This day is held up as a moment to remember the achievements of women worldwide. Here today, women make up the majority of our faculty, staff, and management. The achievements of the Coast District are all connected to women's leadership.
Lastly, I commend the women and men of the Golden West College Criminal Justice Training Center for paying last respects to Huntington Beach Officer Nicholas Vella. Officer Vella's life and tragic end of watch were memorialized this Tuesday, with members of the GWC Police Academy and Investigators Course in full attendance.
Be well,
John
John Weispfenning, Ph.D.
Chancellor
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