Trustee Lisa Bartlett

A full house, plus our trustees Carolyn Inmon, Ryan Dack, Marcia Milchiker, Lisa Bartlett, and Terri Rydell gathered for our annual State of the District at the Saddleback@ATEP Culinary Arts building. Chancellor Barnes shared how SOCCCD continues its winning streak, advancing excellence and building strong partnerships that strengthen pathways for students, plus, she sat down for an engaging conversation with regional leaders including Jeff Ball, CEO of the OCBC, Dr. Ronald Rochon, President of CSU, Fullerton, and Dr. Mark Johnson, Superintendent of the Tustin USD to highlight the importance of collaboration from K-12 through higher education and the workforce.

Trustees Carolyn Inmon and Lisa Bartlett recently engaged with this year’s Excel cohort, sharing insights on leadership and the intersection of policy and politics. Drawing on their extensive public service experience, they discussed effective decision-making, collaboration, and the importance of civic engagement. Their session provided participants with practical perspectives on leading with integrity while navigating today’s complex political landscape.

SOCCCD was proud to be in Washington, D.C. alongside key district leaders for the ACCT National Legislative Summit, advocating for the students and communities we serve. During the visit, trustees met with Representatives Mike Levin, Dave Min, and Young Kim, as well as officials from the U.S. Department of Ed., to discuss critical priorities impacting IVC and Saddleback College. Conversations focused on expanding workforce pathways, protecting and strengthening federal student aid, Veterans Resource Centers, supporting facilities and basic needs resources, and ensuring community colleges remain central to economic mobility and innovation.

SOCCCD had a strong presence in Sacramento at the Community College League of California Legislative Conference and during visits to the State Capitol. The trustees and Chancellor met with legislators to advocate for key priorities including workforce opportunities, facility improvements, student housing, basic needs, and critical funding support. These productive conversations reinforced strong legislative support for community college students in South Orange County and helped keep our students and campuses front and center at the state level.

Trustees Bartlett, Milchiker, Rydell, and Dack joined the Chancellor and campus community members at the Table of Thanks Luncheon held at the Summit Restaurant at SC@ATEP. The event highlighted student talent in the culinary program and celebrated the spirit of gratitude across the district.

Our Trustees Lisa Bartlett, Marcia Milchiker, and Carolyn Inmon joined Student Trustee and veteran Blake Leonard, other students, staff, and community members in a heartfelt Veterans Day celebration, paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

The SOCCCD Board of Trustees holds annual listening sessions for the employees of the district to engage in light and casual conversation. The first of two sessions was held with President Carolyn Inmon and Trustees Tim Jemal, Lisa Bartlett, and Terri Whitt. It was very successful with great dialogue.

The SOCCCD Board of Trustees proudly presented a resolution honoring Irvine Valley College for its 40th anniversary! Since its founding in 1985, Irvine Valley College has been a beacon of innovation, academic excellence, and student success — empowering generations of learners and strengthening our community. Congratulations to all for four decades of dedication, achievement, and impact. Here’s to the next 40 years of inspiring success!

All of our Board of Trustees were thrilled to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Saddleback@ATEP – a cutting-edge campus designed to connect education with innovation. From state-of-the-art automotive technology labs preparing the next generation of skilled technicians, to modern culinary facilities where students will master their craft, this campus is a hub for high-demand, high-growth careers. Together, we’re building pathways that drive opportunity and flavor the future at the ATEP campus in Tustin. Many thanks to all who attend to celebrate this momentous occasion.

A great day to learn all about Orange County facts, figures, and initiatives at the annual State of the County. There in support were Chancellor Julianna Asperin Barnes, Board President Carolyn Inmon, Trustee Lisa Bartlett and Trustee Terri Whitt Rydell. Thank you for having us for an informative day and a wonderful opportunity to connect with so many of our elected officials.