Trustee Ryan Dack

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.

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.

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.

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.

President of the Board Carolyn Inmon, Vice President Ryan Dack and Chancellor Julianna Asperin Barnes were proud to join Girls Inc. of Orange County for their annual IgniteHER conference hosted by Assembly Member Cottie Petrie-Norris. The room was packed, the energy was high, and we left inspired to support and encourage the many girls in attendance who will no doubt be the future leaders of Orange County. Many thanks to President Dr. John C. Hernandez of Irvine Valley College for hosting this wonderful convening. Additionally, it was great to see supportive local leaders such as Joone Kim-Lopez, Betty Martinez Franco, MPA, Michelle Murphy, MSW, Lucy Santana and many more.