Trustee Carolyn Inmon

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.

Trustees joined in to celebrate this proud moment for SOCCCD as Dr. Cindy Vyskocil and our district were recognized with the 2026 ACCCA Award for Equity, Diversity and Social Justice. This honor represents a sustained commitment to building systems that foster belonging, expand opportunity, and create lasting structural change for students and employees. Through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and courage, our Chancellor Julianna Asperin Barnes, Dr. Vyskocil and our college teams continue to advance practices that move equity from aspiration to action.

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.

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.