Trustee Marcia Milchiker

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.

District Trustees joined employees for the Spring Flex Opener, an energizing and reflective celebration marking the start of the spring semester and centered on the theme, “The Future.” Trustee Inmon delivered remarks, with Trustees Milchiker and Dack also in attendance.

Trustee Milchiker attended the Irvine Valley College Idea Pitch Competition where students presented innovative ideas, and the winner received a $1,000 check. Trustee Milchiker is pictured with the IVC student winner along with supportive IVC faculty.

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.

Trustees Marcia Milchiker and Ryan Dack joined Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris at Irvine Valley College for the seventh annual Veterans of the Year Ceremony, honoring three distinguished veterans and presenting certificates of recognition to IVC Veterans Service Center staff for their dedication to supporting the campus veteran community.

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.