MISSION VIEJO, Calif. — The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Lonita Cordova as the next President of Saddleback College, following a comprehensive national search and a highly engaged campus and community input process.
The appointment was made by Chancellor Barnes in consultation with the SOCCCD Board of Trustees, with valuable feedback from faculty, staff, students, and community stakeholders. Dr. Cordova emerged as an exceptional leader with a strong commitment to student success, equity, and innovation in higher education.
“This is an exciting moment for Saddleback College and our district,” said Dr. Julianna M. Asperin Barnes, Chancellor of SOCCCD. “Dr. Cordova brings a clear vision for student-centered excellence, workforce alignment, and inclusive leadership. Her experience and passion will help guide Saddleback College into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
Dr. Cordova has demonstrated a proven track record of advancing academic achievement, strengthening career education pathways, and fostering inclusive campus environments that support student success. During the selection process, she was recognized for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to engage meaningfully with diverse campus communities.
Carolyn Inmon, President of the SOCCCD Board of Trustees, added,
“On behalf of the Board, we are proud to welcome Dr. Cordova to Saddleback College. We are confident in her ability to build upon the college’s strong foundation and continue delivering high-quality educational opportunities that transform lives and strengthen our communities.”
The District extends its sincere appreciation to the search committee and to all who participated in the open forums and provided feedback throughout the process. The thoughtful input from the campus communities played a vital role in informing this decision.
Dr. Cordova will assume her role as President of Saddleback College on July 1, 2026. Additional opportunities for the campus community to welcome and engage with Dr. Cordova will be announced in the coming weeks.
Saddleback College, located in Mission Viejo, serves more than 40,000 students annually and is recognized for its academic excellence, strong transfer programs, and robust career education offerings. The college is part of the South Orange County Community College District, which also includes Irvine Valley College and the Advanced Technology and Education Park (ATEP).
About the South Orange County Community College District
The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) serves more than 60,000 students annually and includes Saddleback College, Irvine Valley College, and the Advanced Technology & Education Park (ATEP). The District is committed to student success, academic excellence, and workforce development that meets the evolving needs of the region. For more information, please visit www.socccd.edu.