As a lifelong educator and one of the elected South Orange County Community College District (SOCCC) Trustees, I have always championed community colleges. They play a critical role in providing affordable and accessible education to students right in their own backyards.
Nearly half of all college students are enrolled at a community college, in part because our community colleges provide educational opportunities that many students would otherwise not be able to access. In addition, these community-focused institutions are essential in workforce development, local economic development, and vocational training.
Our own local community college — Irvine Valley College (IVC) — successfully combines a small-college environment with more than 60 acres of modern facilities and equipment; dedicated staff; and an excellent faculty.
I couldn’t be more proud to live in a city that is home to such a wonderful community college. Through this new column, I will share news and events taking place here in Irvine at IVC.
First off, I am pleased to announce the recent appointment of Dr. Christopher McDonald as the new Vice Chancellor of Educational and Technology Services for the SOCCC. Dr. McDonald has 21 years of service in higher education, with his most recent role serving as the Vice President for Instruction at IVC.
Having worked with Dr. McDonald myself when we were both at Mt. San Antonio College, I can tell you that he is eminently qualified for this new position. I have no doubt that he will successfully strengthen the bond between District Services and the colleges (IVC and Saddleback College).
On the entertainment front, I encourage my Irvine neighbors to join me in attending the multitude of theatrical, dance, and musical performances that are held at the college’s beautiful, state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center (5500 Irvine Center Drive). Ticket prices are modest but the talent at IVC is immense. My granddaughter and I just enjoyed a wonderful performance of Oliver! at the college this past weekend. For a list of upcoming events at IVC, click here.
And, if you love watching local sports, check out the full list of sports offered at IVC and the upcoming schedule of games by clicking here.
- IVC Helps Veterans Succeed - February 3, 2024
- IVC Named Best Community College in California - October 5, 2023
- New IVC Community Arts Group - May 24, 2023
