MISSION VIEJO, Calif. — The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) is proud to announce that Irvine Valley College Senior Administrative Assistant Desiree Ortiz has been named a recipient of the 2026 California Community Colleges Classified Employee of the Year Award, one of the highest honors presented to classified professionals across the state’s community college system.
Ortiz was recognized by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors during a statewide awards presentation in Sacramento honoring six classified professionals for their exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to advancing Vision 2030, the systemwide framework focused on equity, access, innovation, and student success. She was previously recognized in our district at the Board meetings in both March and April.
“Desiree Ortiz represents the very best of our district and the California Community Colleges system,” said Chancellor Dr. Julianna M. Barnes. “For more than two decades, she has led with compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to supporting students and fostering a culture of care and belonging. She is often viewed as the spokesperson for our Caring Campus culture in SOCCCD. This recognition is a testament to the tremendous impact she continues to make at Irvine Valley College and throughout our district and affirms what we have known about her for many years – that she is a leader and makes an impact wherever she goes.”
Ortiz has served the South Orange County Community College District for more than 21 years, contributing across multiple departments including Financial Aid and Police Services before assuming her current role at Irvine Valley College. Throughout her career, she has championed initiatives that support equitable student outcomes, improve campus culture, and strengthen student engagement.
Among her many contributions, Ortiz helped lead Irvine Valley College’s Caring Campus initiative, co-founded a classified Guided Pathways team, and has been a strong advocate for first-generation and historically underrepresented students. In addition to her campus leadership, she serves as president of the California School Employees Association (CSEA) chapter and actively contributes to statewide conversations supporting classified professionals and student-centered practices.
“Desiree’s leadership is rooted in service, collaboration, and genuine care for students and colleagues,” said Irvine Valley College President Dr. John Hernandez. “She consistently goes above and beyond to create welcoming spaces where students feel supported and empowered to succeed. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized at the state level for her dedication and leadership.”
The California Community Colleges Classified Employee of the Year Award recognizes individuals nominated by their colleagues and endorsed by their local board of trustees for demonstrating outstanding commitment to the mission and values of California community colleges. Recipients are selected by representatives from the Board of Governors, the Consultation Council, and the Chancellor’s Office.
SOCCCD Board President Carolyn Inmon praised Ortiz’s contributions and the vital role classified professionals play in student success.
“Classified professionals are essential to the student experience, and Desiree exemplifies excellence in every sense,” said Board President Carolyn Inmon. “Her dedication, leadership, and advocacy have positively impacted countless students and employees. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we congratulate Desiree on this incredibly well-deserved honor.”
Each award recipient received a commemorative plaque and a $750 cash award during the recognition ceremony in Sacramento, CA.