Trustee Terri Rydell, Ed.D.

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.

Trustees Marcia Milchiker, Lisa Bartlett, and Terri Rydell attended the Celebrating Excellence Gala hosted by the Irvine Valley College Foundation in support of Irvine Valley College. The annual event brings together community members to celebrate student success, recognize outstanding contributions, and raise vital funds that help students reach the finish line.

A full house, plus our trustees Carolyn Inmon, Ryan Dack, Marcia Milchiker, Lisa Bartlett, and Terri Rydell gathered for our annual State of the District at the Saddleback@ATEP Culinary Arts building. Chancellor Barnes shared how SOCCCD continues its winning streak, advancing excellence and building strong partnerships that strengthen pathways for students, plus, she sat down for an engaging conversation with regional leaders including Jeff Ball, CEO of the OCBC, Dr. Ronald Rochon, President of CSU, Fullerton, and Dr. Mark Johnson, Superintendent of the Tustin USD to highlight the importance of collaboration from K-12 through higher education and the workforce.

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.

Trustee Rydell joined Lizett Bobadilla and others at IVC's Guardiansgiving celebration, coming together with students and staff in a spirit of community and gratitude for this annual tradition.

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.

Trustee Terri Rydell joined students and community members in celebrating Día de los Muertos, honoring loved ones through music, art, and beautifully crafted altars at the vibrant event hosted by the Monarchs and Puente Clubs.

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.

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 Marcia Milchiker and Terri Rydell joined Saddleback College as it hosted its inaugural Multicultural Festival in conjunction with the grand opening of The Den, the college’s new Multicultural and LGBTQIA+ Center. The event transformed the Quad into a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and inclusion.