Trustee T.J. Prendergast III

The South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees joined faculty, staff, families, and community members in celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 during commencement ceremonies at Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College. Trustees congratulated graduates as they marked this important milestone and recognized the dedication, perseverance, and support systems that helped students reach graduation.

Trustees Lisa A. Bartlett, T.J. Prendergast III, Ryan Dack, Carolyn Inmon, and Marcia Milchiker joined Chancellor Julianna M. Asperin Barnes and Saddleback College President Elliot Stern in celebrating the dedicated employees honored at Saddleback College’s Retirement Ceremony. The ceremony recognized the lasting contributions of faculty, classified professionals, and administrators whose years of service have supported students, strengthened programs, and enriched the Saddleback College community. SOCCCD is grateful for their commitment and impact across generations of students and employees.

USA Today highlighted how SOCCCD is expanding workforce development opportunities through its growth at the Advanced Technology & Education Park (ATEP) in Tustin. Featuring the trustees, the piece outlines the district’s expansion plans, including new facilities, industry partnerships, and career-focused programs designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences and strengthen Orange County’s workforce pipeline.

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.

The SOCCCD Board of Trustees continued its annual listening sessions, offering employees another opportunity to engage in open and friendly conversation at IVC. The second session featured Trustees Ryan Dack, Marcia Milchiker, and TJ Prendergast III. The event was once again a great success, fostering meaningful dialogue and connection.

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!

Trustees Ryan Dack and TJ Prendergast were honored to join IVC who sponsored the Tustin Unified School District and Tustin Public Schools Foundation Celebration of Schools – an inspiring evening dedicated to recognizing excellence in education and the incredible work happening across our local schools. This event highlighted the power of collaboration between K-12 and higher education to create seamless pathways for student success.

Board President Carolyn Inmon and Trustees Marcia Milchiker and TJ Prendergast recently joined this special event to honor the dedication and service of our local first responders who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. This was an opportunity to express our gratitude on behalf of SOCCCD and to strengthen our connections with the public safety agencies that partner with our colleges. We are proud of the programs at Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College that train future first responders and support the vital work these heroes perform every day.

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.