Weekly News Brief | October 7, 2022
From the Office of Chancellor Whitney Yamamura, Ed.D.

To begin, I acknowledge the fear and uncertainty surrounding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit closing off access to the program for those not already covered. Please know that Coast District advocates continue to seek a long-term legislative framework to protect our students and employees. In the meantime, we will maintain the broadest possible access to learning and employment opportunities allowable under law.

Over the past few weeks, I've been able to share coffee while answering questions, met numerous times with our constituency groups, and engaged with the district's community partners. Thank you for your openness and honesty in our conversations. Hearing a diversity of perspectives is critical for future decision making.

One of the items that is often raised is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility planning at Coastline, Golden West, Orange Coast, and the District Office. I'm grateful for the years of work reflected in today's emerging plans. Particularly, I was interested to read the reports generated from the survey and focus groups conducted in Spring 2021. The presidents recently sent their reports to their colleges, and this Navigator link includes the college and districtwide plans.

Equity planning is necessary. Expeditious and consequential action must follow. I commit, publicly, to work with you every day to eliminate equity gaps. The steps we take in the coming years should be informed by the lived experiences of students, faculty, staff, and managers. That means constantly checking and rechecking our assumptions.

The human mind is amazing, yet each of us has a limited view of the world. I look forward to many dialogues that expand my thinking and advance our shared mission.

With gratitude,

 Whitney

Whitney Yamamura, Ed.D.
Chancellor

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated September 15 through October 15. This year's theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. All faculty, students, and staff are invited to celebrate through music, dance, and healing.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year's theme is Everyone Knows Someone. All faculty, students, and staff are invited to join in a community of safety and support.

Report from the Board of Trustees

On Thursday, October 6, the Board of Trustees met and reviewed Board Policy 2715, Code of Ethics for Members of the Board of Trustees. Trustees considered suggested changes and made additional recommendations. The policy will return for approval after addressing the revisions.

The Board received a report on marketing and enrollment. Vice Chancellor Serban provided an overview of enrollment planning and the intersection of marketing, outreach, and retention. Director Fallis provided a summary of college and districtwide marketing activities and funding sources. Director Gutierrez, Orange Coast College, provided examples of campaigns. Trustees stated appreciation for marketing efforts and inquired about how marketing reaches underserved communities and seeks a broader range of prospective students.

Vice Chancellor Serban provided a report on student debt forgiveness using one-time federal emergency relief funds. More than 14,000 students district-wide had their debt cancelled. The highest debt amount was $11,890, the lowest $1, the average was $283, and the median was $51. Over 9,000 students owed less than $150. The total amount of debt cancelled was $4 million. Trustees lauded the benefit for students struggling financially.

The Board adopted a resolution affirming the value of on-site teaching, learning, and work. Trustees addressed continued flexibility through formalized processes. Policy will be developed through the District Consultation Council BP/AP Committee for future consideration. Chancellor Yamamura affirmed that the Coast District will continue to review the science, monitor conditions, and follow state and federal public health guidance.

The Board adjourned in memory of Alexander Honeyman, Golden West College student; Connor Crawford, son of Maureen Crawford, long-time employee at Orange Coast College; and Dr. Teresa Brown, trustee of the San Joaquin Delta Community College District.

College News

Schedule, Week of October 3

Chancellor
Dr. Yamamura is in the District, Monday through Wednesday
Dr. Baeza is Acting Chancellor, Thursday and Friday