Presenters

Mainstage/Keynote Speakers

Dr. Sonya Christian

Chancellor of the California Community Colleges

Sonya Christian serves as Chancellor of the California Community Colleges, the nation's largest higher education system. She previously spent three decades at Bakersfield College, serving as mathematics faculty, dean, and eventually its 10th president, before leading the Kern Community College District as Chancellor from 2021 to 2023. A pioneer in higher education policy, Christian led California's Guided Pathways initiative—securing $150 million in state investment—and championed bachelor's degree programs at community colleges. Her leadership extends to chairing the California Community College Women's Caucus, serving as Vice Chair of the Campaign for College Opportunity, and former chair of the ACCJC.

Dr. Annebelle Nery

President, Santa Ana College

Dr. Annebelle Nery has served as President of Santa Ana College (SAC) since January 2022. A first-generation college graduate with a Ph.D. in Sociology from UC Riverside, she brings 25 years of educational experience, including executive roles at College of the Desert. Under her leadership, SAC achieved consecutive years of enrollment growth, returned to large-college funding status, and expanded its offering to three bachelor's degrees—the most in the California Community Colleges system. Nery has driven major growth in workforce training and noncredit continuing education while earning statewide honors as Administrator of the Year (2021) and Chief Student Services Officer of the Year (2019).

Cheryl Broom

CEO of GradComm

Cheryl Broom, CEO of GradComm, delivers a story-driven keynote examining the adult learner journey from initial contact through completion. Drawing on her experience with over 200 colleges, she demonstrates how adopting a product mindset helps institutions pinpoint friction points where non-traditional students drop out. Broom outlines practical, scalable solutions—specifically focusing on targeted improvements in customer service and student communication—to eliminate administrative barriers, boost retention, and keep adult learners enrolled through graduation.

Patty Sanchez

Workforce Preparation & Vocational ESL Coordinator, SCC Continuing Education

Patty Sanchez is an Assistant Professor and Workforce Preparation/Vocational ESL Coordinator in Santiago Canyon College’s Continuing Education program. She creates curriculum connecting English language learners with Career Education programs, specifically in healthcare, while building core workplace skills. Collaborating across ESL, Career Education, and Inmate Education, she establishes accessible entry points into academic and workforce pathways. Her work directly supports California Community Colleges’ Vision 2030 equity goals by expanding learning opportunities and preparing adult learners for certificates and employment. Dedicated to student empowerment, Sanchez helps adult learners build confidence and successfully advance their educational and professional goals at SCC.

Valentina Purtell

President, North Orange Continuing Education

Valentina Purtell is President of North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE), one of California’s largest noncredit institutions. Beginning her career there in 2002 as an ESL Program Assistant, she advanced through leadership roles—including Dean of Instruction and Student Services—before assuming the presidency in 2015. Driven by her background in frontline student support, Purtell champions adult education, workforce preparation, and economic mobility. She holds degrees in Applied Linguistics from Rivne State Humanitarian University and shapes statewide noncredit policy through leadership in the North Orange County Regional Consortium, the ACCE, and the Vision 2030 Noncredit Taskforce.

Dr. Tara Lynn Gray

Former Director of CalOSBA

Dr. Tara Lynn Gray is Director of Advocacy at NAWBO-CA. She served as the 5th Director of the California Office of Small Business Advocate from 2021 to 2025, representing California's 4.3 million small businesses at GO-Biz. She advanced Governor Gavin Newsom's vision of a California for All by strengthening the state's small business ecosystem and centering equity and inclusion in its programs. She administered fourteen programs and directed nearly $5.3 billion in state resources. Previously, Gray was CEO of the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce and its foundation, where she led initiatives including Fresno DRIVE's Betting Big on Small Businesses and the Clean Shared Mobility Network. Her advocacy centers on closing opportunity gaps, job creation, women and BIPOC business leadership, and small business procurement. An award-winning leader, Gray holds a bachelor's in business management, a master's in Christian studies, and a doctorate in healthcare administration. Her book, Undervalued No More: Building to SCALE, releases October 2026.

Robert Meyer

Director of Economic Development at the Employment Training Panel

Robert Meyer, Director of Economic Development at the California Employment Training Panel (ETP), leads statewide business engagement and interagency strategy. With over 25 years at ETP, he drives workforce innovation by supporting advanced manufacturing, emerging technologies, and small-to-medium businesses while expanding access to underserved communities. Meyer also guides community colleges on partnering with California employers using ETP’s pay-for-performance reimbursement model. He details funding mechanics, essential partnership qualities, and strategies for opening dialogues with local employers to align skill development with high-wage job retention.

Fiona Ma

California's 34th State Treasurer

Fiona Ma serves as California’s 34th State Treasurer. First elected in 2018 and reelected in 2022, she is the first woman of color and the first woman Certified Public Accountant elected to the position. As California’s chief banker, Treasurer Ma oversees state investments and financing programs that support education, affordable housing, health care, infrastructure, and economic development. Her public service career includes leadership roles on the California State Board of Equalization, in the California State Assembly as Speaker pro Tempore, and on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Her work has focused on expanding opportunity, supporting small businesses, and improving the lives of California’s families.

Dr. Tina King

President, San Diego College of Continuing Education

Dr. Tina M. King is a transformative educational leader and the President of the San Diego College of Continuing Education, the nation’s largest noncredit institution serving nearly 30,000 adult learners annually. With over two decades of experience spanning California public education, Dr. King champions workforce development, institutional transformation, and equity-centered student success. Named a 2026 Aspen Presidents Fellow, she also serves as an adjunct professor in educational leadership at San Diego State University and holds a doctorate in Community College Leadership from California State University, Fullerton.

Dr. Adam Gottdank

DSS Dean, CAPED President, North Orange Continuing Education

Dr. Adam S. U. Gottdank is the Dean for Disability Support Services (DSS) for North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE), and he is the current President of the California Association for Postsecondary Education and Disability (CAPED). He has been in his current role at NOCE since 2017. He was President of the NOCE Academic Senate from 2014 to 2017, and DSS faculty from 2005 to 2017. Adam was part of the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) leadership team from 1994 to 2005. Earlier in his career, Adam worked with individuals who have disabilities in a high school, a mental health facility, and in retail settings. He conducted research related to families who have children with disabilities for 7 years as part of the U.C. Santa Barbara Special Education Research Lab. Adam earned a Ph.D. in Education Policy, Special Education and Disability, and a M.A. in Psychology and Counseling. Adam has multiple invisible disabilities, and he has family members who have disabilities. In collaboration with colleagues, he has published a book on transition and a white paper on best practices to support adults with disabilities in higher education.

Dr. James Kennedy

Vice President, Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education

Dr. James Kennedy is Vice President of the School of Continuing Education at Santa Ana College, overseeing one of California’s largest community college adult education programs. With nearly three decades of experience in higher education administration, he leads initiatives in adult education, workforce development, student services, strategic planning, accreditation, and community partnerships. Dr. Kennedy has also directed facilities planning to create innovative learning environments that expand student access and success. A champion of noncredit education, he creates clear pathways to college, careers, and economic mobility. He holds an Ed.D. from California State University, Fullerton.

Erin Earlywine

Executive Director, Merge Opportunities

Erin Earlywine is Executive Director of Merge Opportunities, a nonprofit workforce development agency helping young adults build pathways to employment through practical training and employer-connected work experiences. Holding a degree in International Business and Finance from Cal State Long Beach, she brings over 22 years of business operations and leadership experience. Earlywine bridges workforce development with innovation, founding the AI Community Corps to equip youth with applied AI skills through nonprofit project work. She also co-led the Long Beach Business & AI Summit and was recognized by California State Treasurer Fiona Ma for her distinguished leadership in leveraging AI for community and workforce impact.

Panelists

Dr. Poppy Fitch

Dean, Wellness and DSPS, Educational Services, SDCCD

Poppy Fitch, Ed.D., is the Dean of Wellness and Disability Support Programs and Services at the San Diego Community College District and a lecturer at San Diego State University. An equity-focused administrator, counselor, and published author, she oversees student mental health, disability support, and specialized workforce programs. As a disabled former foster youth whose life was transformed by higher education, her research and advocacy focus on college access, degree completion, and employment outcomes for historically marginalized students. Poppy also serves the broader community through leadership roles with CAPED, SDSU Alumni, and the San Diego Commission on Police Practices.

Alex Thiemann

Project Coordinator - Contract and Community Education, Shasta College

Alex Thiemann is an education and workforce development professional dedicated to expanding learning access and community partnerships. As Project Coordinator for Contract and Community Education at Shasta College, he designs programs supporting lifelong learners and helping local employers meet workforce demands. With over a decade of experience across K-12 and postsecondary settings, Alex has served as a teacher, coach, and higher education administrator focused on student success and program growth. He holds an M.A. in Interdisciplinary Education from Santa Clara University and a B.A. in Psychology from San Jose State University, driven by a commitment to community strengthening through lifelong learning.

Preethi Talwar

Director, InTech & Workforce Development, Chaffey College

Preethi Talwar is Director of InTech & Workforce Development at Chaffey College, where she leads workforce planning, talent acquisition, and strategic industry partnerships to drive student and employment outcomes. She brings nearly two decades of software and analytics industry experience to higher education, having held leadership roles spanning operations, innovation, and workforce strategy. Prior to Chaffey College, she managed regional and statewide programs at the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office within both the Workforce and Economic Development and Digital Innovation divisions. Today, she leverages her private sector and system-wide expertise to expand career pathways and align education with industry needs.

Chrissy Gascon

Dean of Instruction and Student Services, SCC Continuing Education

Chrissy Gascon serves as Dean of Instruction and Student Services for Continuing Education at Santiago Canyon College, overseeing Career Education, Workforce Preparation, and programs for Adults with Disabilities. Since 2014, she has also served as Executive Director of the Rancho Santiago Adult Education Consortium. Dedicated to expanding educational access, Gascon leads the development of innovative noncredit pathways connecting adult learners to college degrees, industry credentials, and employment. Her work focuses on building healthcare pathways, expanding apprenticeships, and strengthening regional partnerships across K–12, community, and industry organizations to support lifelong learning and career advancement.

Abigail Mendez

Partnership Development Branch Chief, California Division of Apprenticeship Standards

Abigail Mendez is the Partnership Development Branch Chief at the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards within the Department of Industrial Relations. Bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in the EdTech sector, she leads statewide initiatives to expand registered apprenticeship models into non-traditional industries. Her work focuses on strengthening California's apprenticeship ecosystem through strategic collaboration among employers, local education agencies, workforce development boards, community-based organizations, and intermediaries. Dedicated to opening doors and building trust across public and private sectors, Mendez drives efforts to create accessible, high-quality career pathways and equitable economic opportunities for workers across the state.

Dr. Stacy Eldred

Professor and Department Chair of the OASIS Program, Saddleback College

Dr. Stacy Eldred is a Professor and Department Chair of the OASIS Program at Saddleback College, bringing nearly eighteen years of experience supporting students with disabilities across K–12 and higher education. Holding a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in Disability Studies from Chapman University, she focuses on inclusive postsecondary practices and expanding meaningful career and independent living pathways. At Saddleback, Dr. Eldred designs workforce preparation curricula, coordinates transition partnerships and internships, and co-advises the Neurodiversity Union and Superfriends student clubs to foster campus connection, leadership, and self-advocacy.

Natalie Maris

Senior Director of Strategy and Operations

Natalie Maris, Senior Director of Strategy and Operations, brings nearly a decade of experience advancing apprenticeship programs within California’s community college system. She provides strategic leadership across program strategy, business engagement, community outreach, K-12 partnerships, and apprentice retention to expand equitable workforce opportunities state-wide. Natalie helped pioneer California’s first competency-based apprenticeship and registered pre-apprenticeship programs. Collaborating with educational institutions, employers, and apprenticeship committees, she builds and scales high-quality work-based learning pathways. Additionally, Natalie has secured and managed over $20 million in grant and contract funding to drive and support key workforce development initiatives across California.

Annie Rafferty

CCCCO, Contract Education Not-for-Credit TAP & Butte College Dean, Workforce Training and Development

Annie Rafferty serves as Dean of Workforce Training and Development at Butte College and as the statewide Contract Education Not-for-Credit Technical Assistance Provider for the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. Bringing 23 years of industry experience and 18 years in higher education, she aligns workforce training with industry demand to advance wage progression and economic mobility. Rafferty supports the LAUNCH Employer Engagement Network by expanding registered pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pathways. A first-generation college graduate holding an M.S. in Training and Organizational Development, she is dedicated to creating accessible skill-building opportunities that empower workers to increase their earning potential and achieve long-term career growth.

Dr. Lisa Mednick Takami

Director, Community College Technical Assistance Provider, NOCE

Dr. Lisa Mednick Takami serves as Director of the Community College Technical Assistance Provider (CC TAP) at NOCE, an initiative of the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office supporting the California Adult Education Program. With extensive leadership experience across community colleges, four-year institutions, and labor-management apprentice training, she brings deep expertise to advancing workforce and adult education initiatives. Dr. Takami serves on the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards Interagency Committee on EEO and has authored multiple books on higher education leadership and cross-cultural reflection. She holds a doctorate from CSU Long Beach, an MBA from CSU Dominguez Hills, and a B.A. from UC Berkeley.

Briseida Ramirez Catalan

Professor, Adults with Disabilities

Briseida Ramirez Catalan is a noncredit educator in the Adults with Disabilities program at Mt. San Antonio College, where she has taught for nine years. She brings an additional 12 years of experience managing in-home programs for children on the autism spectrum. She holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Applied Behavior Analysis from National University. A dedicated regional center board member and lifelong learner, Briseida fosters inclusive classrooms and advocates for equitable access. As an individual with an invisible disability and a mother to children with physical and invisible disabilities, she brings invaluable lived experience to her community work.

Lorri Guy

Program Coordinator Disability Support Services, North Orange Continuing Education

Lorri Guy is the Program Coordinator for Disability Support Services at North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE). She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from California State University, Long Beach, and a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from National University. With more than 13 years of experience supporting adults with disabilities, Lorri specializes in the development and coordination of educational and vocational programs that promote access, inclusion, independence, and employment opportunities.

Janice Mrkonjic

Director, Contract & Community Education, Mt San Jacinto College

Janice Mrkonjic is a dynamic leader driving workforce development, economic growth, and community engagement. A pioneer in eLearning, she previously provided scalable upskilling for major telecommunications companies and founded Savvy Event Designs LLC, serving Fortune 500 clients. Following higher education roles at Duke, Arizona State, and Maricopa Community Colleges, Janice joined Mt. San Jacinto College in 2021 as Director of Contract and Community Education. In this role, she delivers customized training programs to build regional economic resilience. Janice holds a Master of Education, brings extensive project management expertise, serves on the ACCE board, and is Past President of the Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition.

Debbie Wong

Director, Community & Contract Education, Mt. SAC

Debbie Wong serves as Director of Community & Contract Education at Mt. San Antonio College, bringing 20 years of experience supporting nontraditional college students. Previously holding leadership roles at Citrus College and UC Irvine, she has dedicated her career to expanding continuing, community, and contract education programs. She holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Cal State Fullerton and a bachelor’s degree in business economics from UC Irvine. Currently serving as First Vice-President/President-Elect for the Association of Community and Continuing Education (ACCE), Wong is passionate about fostering lifelong learning, empowering adult learners, and creating accessible pathways for personal and professional growth.

Chester A. Bragado, CPA, MBA

General Manager of Comic Book Hideout, Chief Accounting Officer

Chester Bragado is the principal and general manager of Comic Book Hideout, an independent comic and collectibles shop in Fullerton, California, which he acquired in 2025. Alongside managing the shop, he serves as Chief Accounting Officer for a privately held manufacturing company. Bragado brings extensive corporate finance expertise to his ventures, having previously held senior financial leadership roles at prominent mid-sized and large corporations after starting his career at a Big 4 accounting firm. A licensed California CPA, Bragado holds an Executive MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management, combining corporate financial acumen with small-business leadership.

Workshop Presenters

Dr. Dan Predoehl

Assistant Dean of Extended Learning, Saddleback College

Dan Predoehl, Ed.D., is a strategic enrollment management leader with over 20 years of experience across public and private higher education, spanning student services, instruction, and institutional strategy. As Assistant Dean of Extended Learning and Director of the Emeritus Institute at Saddleback College, he directs large-scale instructional programming focused on access, equity, lifelong learning, and student transition pathways. Dr. Predoehl’s expertise lies at the intersection of enrollment strategy, equity-centered planning, and organizational design, with a primary focus on guiding community colleges to build robust executive structures that drive sustainable enrollment growth.

Dr. Osiel "Ozzie" Madrigal

Career Ed. Faculty
Coordinator, Dept. Chair, &
Vocational Business Professor, SAC SCE

Dr. Osiel “Ozzie” Madrigal joined Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education in 2016 as Career Education Faculty Coordinator, Department Chair, and Vocational Business Professor. Under his leadership, vocational certificate options expanded from 6 to 42 across 11 departments, supported by nearly $4 million in grant funding he secured to build noncredit career pathways. Raised in Santa Ana, Dr. Madrigal has dedicated his career to empowering underserved communities across local public agencies. In 2013, he established the M.A.S. Scholarship to support high school seniors at his alma mater, driven by a commitment to expanding educational opportunities for all.

Ernesto Garcia

President, NOCE DSS Student Advocacy and Social Club

Ernesto Garcia is a dedicated NOCE student who has completed Disability Support Services (DSS) coursework alongside noncredit Career Technical Education classes. Through College to Career (C2C)—a workforce initiative preparing students for inclusive college classes and employment—he partnered closely with staff to land a position at Miniso. Beyond academics, Ernesto demonstrates extensive community leadership: he organized the first-ever Friendship Walk in Orange County during his decade with Best Buddies and remains an active member of the nonprofit Neurodivergent Voice Actors. Today, Ernesto serves as President of NOCE’s DSS Student Advocacy and Social Club, championing and connecting his peers.

Neil Estrada

Founder & President - Filipino Influential Leaders and Mentors

Dr. Lena Nelson

Assistant Professor, Noncredit ESL, Mt. San Jacinto College

Dr. Lena Nelson is an Assistant Professor of Noncredit ESL at Mt. San Jacinto College, specializing in noncredit adult education and multilingual student transitions. Drawing on her own background as an English learner and nearly two decades of teaching experience in international and U.S. settings, she brings both personal and professional insights to supporting student pathways. She holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from California State University, Fresno, where her research focused on noncredit ESL transitions into college English, and an M.A. in Applied Linguistics from UMass Boston. Additionally, Dr. Nelson authored America’s Youngest Ambassador: The Cold War Story of Samantha Smith’s Lasting Message of Peace.

Dr. Meghan McBride

Director, Adult Education Projects, WestEd

Dr. Meghan McBride is Director of Adult Education Projects at WestEd, leading statewide professional development and technical assistance for the California Adult Education Program and the English Language Learner Healthcare Pathways initiative. Her work focuses on helping adult education agencies and consortia leverage data, labor market insights, and regional workforce needs to strengthen program planning and career pathways. She specializes in guiding practitioners to translate complex data into actionable decisions that align education with regional industry demand. Through these efforts, Dr. McBride helps adult education programs expand equitable access, build sustainable workforce pipelines, and advance economic mobility for adult learners statewide.

Claire M. Coyne

Academic Senate President, Santa Ana College

Claire Coyne is a Professor of Earth Sciences and Academic Senate President at Santa Ana College, where she leads efforts in institutional planning, shared governance, and student equity. She serves as faculty co-chair for the college’s Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment Committee and Guided Pathways Student Equity Committee, contributing to strategic planning, enrollment management, and program review. Her leadership focuses on building collaborative structures that integrate faculty voice into institutional decision-making and support equitable access and completion. Collaborating across academic affairs, student services, and continuing education, Coyne works to strengthen connections and smooth pathways between noncredit and credit programs for adult learners.

Dr. Donna Khalid

Professor and Coordinator, SAC SCE

Dr. Donna Khalid is a Faculty Coordinator at the Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education, where she supports adult learners through flexible, student-centered programs. With extensive experience in both in-person and online instruction, she focuses on curriculum development, student engagement, and educational equity. Through the Adult High School program, Dr. Khalid leads the development of accessible online courses that allow students to satisfy graduation requirements while balancing work and family life. At the VISION 2030 Noncredit Summit 2026, she presents strategies for advancing adult secondary education, leveraging innovative course design and supportive instructional practices to drive student persistence and success.

Scott Silverman

Dean, Noncredit & External Programs, Santa Monica College

Scott Silverman, Ed.D., is Dean of Noncredit and External Programs at Santa Monica College, where he leads Noncredit Career Education, ESL, Community Education, the Emeritus program, and the Malibu Campus. A higher education leader spanning academic affairs, student services, and workforce development, he advances equity-centered strategies that expand educational access. Dr. Silverman holds a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from USC and is lead co-author of How to Survive Your Freshman Year. He frequently speaks and publishes on student success, innovation, and community impact while actively supporting nonprofit initiatives, authoring children's literature, and creating transformational learning opportunities that empower adult learners.

Enrique Perez, J.D.

Vice Chancellor, Educational Services

Enrique Perez, J.D., serves as Vice Chancellor of Educational Services for the Rancho Santiago Community College District (RSCCD). Reporting directly to the Chancellor, he leads strategic enrollment management, institutional effectiveness, research, resource development, and information technology while directing districtwide governmental affairs. Having joined RSCCD in 2000, Perez has held several leadership roles, including Assistant Vice Chancellor and Executive Director of Business Development. With over 27 years of community service and leadership on local business and nonprofit boards, he brings deep regional insight to expanding RSCCD's partnerships. Perez holds a J.D. from Whittier Law School, an M.P.A. from CSU Los Angeles, and a B.A. from USC.

Debi Pezzuto

Senior Program Associate, Adult Education, Workforce, and Postsecondary Education, WestEd

Debi Pezzuto is the Senior Program Associate for Adult Education, Workforce, and Postsecondary Education at WestEd. Bringing deep expertise in adult basic education, English as a Second Language, High School Equivalency, Integrated Education and Training, and WIOA Title II, she co-leads statewide professional development and technical assistance for the California Adult Education Program (CAEP). In this role, Pezzuto supports adult education consortia across the state in strengthening instructional services, streamlining student transitions, and advancing regional workforce alignment. She leverages data-driven strategies and collaborative planning to expand equitable educational pathways, accelerate career advancement, and foster long-term economic mobility for adult learners statewide.

Dr. Reza Mirbeik

Professor of
Mathematics and HSS
Department Co-Chair, SAC SCE

Reza Mirbeik, Ed.D., has served as a mathematics faculty member in the Rancho Santiago Community College District since 2013 and is Co-Chair of the High School Department at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education. Holding degrees in Physics and Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Cal State Fullerton, his work emphasizes student-centered instruction, online learning, and student mindset. Dr. Mirbeik’s recent professional focus centers on leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance math curricula and utilizing data analysis to understand learning patterns, driving strategies to boost course completion, student engagement, and long-term persistence in adult and continuing education programs.

Dr. Nichol Roe

Dean, Career Technical and Extended Education, Palomar College

Dr. Nichol Roe is Dean of Career, Technical, and Extended Education at Palomar College and President of the California Community College Association for Occupational Education (CCCAOE). A former community college student, she earned an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership through a joint program at CSU San Marcos and UC San Diego, researching student perspectives on Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Roe leads regional and statewide initiatives to establish CPL frameworks across California Community Colleges, ensuring students earn credit for learning gained through military service, workforce training, and employment. Her work expands equitable career pathways connecting student experience to academic and economic success.

Maryanne Galindo

Faculty; District Academic Senate Co-Chair, Noncredit Disciplines Committee; ACCE Board Member

Maryanne Galindo is a Cuban-American educator, social entrepreneur, and advocate for adult learners. Her background spans community organizing, workforce development, and both credit and noncredit education. Before joining academia, she co-founded two small businesses, a nonprofit, and the Universal CityWalk Youth Entrepreneur Academy. After entering higher education, she taught Community Planning and Economic Development at LA Trade Tech College before transitioning into noncredit basic skills and vocational programs, earning tenure in 2016. Maryanne has chaired academic departments, served as Academic Senate President, and held district and statewide leadership roles. Her work focuses on student-centered curriculum design, relationship building, and meaningful institutional change.

Lorena Chavez

Dean of Instruction & Student Services, Workforce Development & Community Education Division, SAC SCE

Lorena Chavez is a higher education leader and social impact champion with over 26 years of experience expanding access, student engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As Dean of Instruction and Student Services for Santa Ana College's School of Continuing Education, she leads noncredit-to-credit pathways and builds transformational community and industry partnerships to drive individual and community growth. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University, an MPA from California State University, Long Beach, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Community College Leadership at Kansas State University.

Dr. Merari Weber

Professor/Coordinator, ESL, Prof. Learning and ELL Healthcare Pathways, SAC SCE

Dr. Merari Weber is Professor and Coordinator of English as a Second Language (ESL) and Professional Learning at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education. In this capacity, she also leads the English Language Learner (ELL) Healthcare Pathways program, developing specialized language instruction and contextualized career training to prepare adult immigrants and English learners for essential healthcare careers. Additionally, Dr. Weber serves as Vice President of Community Operations for the Santa Ana College Academic Senate. Through her administrative leadership, curriculum design, and faculty development efforts, she fosters equity, enhances instructional quality, and expands accessible workforce pathways for diverse adult student populations.

David Elliott

President/CEO, Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce

David L. Elliott is a seasoned business, education, and community leader with more than 35 years of executive experience across Orange County. He serves as President and CEO of the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and CEO of the Passkeys Foundation, where he founded the Institute for Community Impact to bridge key civic sectors, including education, business, and government. A former Associate Vice President at Vanguard University, Dave is known as an expert relationship builder dedicated to expanding community engagement. He holds degrees in Education from the University of Arizona and Azusa Pacific University, alongside graduate work from Biola University.

Dr. Andrew Manson

Assistant Professor in Adult Secondary Education/High School Subjects, SAC SCE

Dr. Andrew Manson is an Assistant Professor of Adult Secondary Education and High School Subjects at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education. With over 20 years of teaching experience, he specializes in social sciences, particularly U.S. government and international politics. Before joining Santa Ana College, Dr. Manson served as an Assistant Professor of Instruction at Chapman University. Holding a Ph.D. in Political Science, he brings deep academic expertise and a long-standing passion for educator-led student success to adult learners, helping them navigate complex civic systems, achieve their educational goals, and expand their career opportunities.

Dr. Joanne Armstrong

Dean of Instruction & Student Services, SCC

Dr. Joanne Armstrong is Dean of Instruction and Student Services for Continuing Education at Santiago Canyon College, where she oversees noncredit education, inmate education, and Rising Scholars programs. Her work centers on expanding educational access and building pathways that connect adult learners to academic, career, and reentry opportunities. As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Armstrong brings deep personal commitment and professional perspective to advancing educational equity across diverse student populations. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership, an MBA in International Development, and a bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development.

Corina Cadiz

Care Coordinator, United Resource Center

Corina Cadiz is a Care Coordinator for the United Resource Center’s Community Colleges Program, where she works to support caregivers and domestic workers pursuing higher education. Drawing on her extensive background across both K-12 and higher education, she is deeply committed to expanding educational access, retention, and equity for marginalized communities. Cadiz collaborates closely with community college partners throughout Orange County to serve adult learners and build supportive academic networks. Her dedicated efforts empower students to navigate institutional systems, achieve their educational goals, and unlock new economic opportunities for themselves and their families.

Dr. David Roper

Professor & Department Chair, Santa Ana College

Dr. Roper is a Professor of Automotive Technology and Department Chair of the Automotive and Diesel-Electric departments at Santa Ana College. Throughout his tenure at SAC, he has spearheaded key workforce development initiatives, leading the creation of the Mopar Career Automotive Program and establishing the college’s new Bachelor of Science degree in Automotive Technology. Dr. Roper’s leadership focuses on expanding hands-on technical training, aligning academic curricula with modern industry standards, and creating direct career pathways for students. His dedication to innovative automotive education ensures adult learners gain the advanced skills required for high-demand careers in transportation technology.

Dr. Adriene "Lexy" Davis

President & CEO I Retired Assistant Vice Chancellor, Intermediary Development Corporation I Rancho Santiago CCD

Dr. Adriene “Lexy” Davis is President and CEO of Intermediary Development Corporation and serves on the California Commission on Aging, where she advances age-inclusive workforce strategies and economic security. An award-winning leader with over two decades of experience, she previously served as Assistant Vice Chancellor at Rancho Santiago Community College District and Dean at Los Angeles City College, directing adult education and workforce development programs. Having secured over $80 million in competitive funding and led $130 million in public workforce investments, Dr. Davis works to strengthen community college pathways that support lifelong learning, reskilling, and economic mobility for learners at every stage of life.

Juliana Saldivar

Assistant Professor, High
School Equivalency, SAC SCE

Juliana Saldivar is an Assistant Professor and Department Lead of the High School Equivalency Program at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education. Teaching adult learners since 2016, she develops accessible, engaging courses in both English and Spanish that build student skills and confidence. As a first-generation Mexican American and former English language learner, Saldivar brings valuable personal insight to her work. She holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Spanish from Cal State Fullerton. Her efforts focus on online course development, faculty support, and creating clear pathways to high school equivalency certificates and higher education for diverse adult learners.

Jennifer Nieto

Program Facilitator, Foster & Kinship Care Education/Apprenticehsip Program, Cerritos College

Jennifer Nieto is a Program Facilitator for the Apprenticeship and Foster & Kinship Care programs within Continuing Education at Cerritos College. With over two years of experience supporting credit and noncredit apprenticeship pathways, she is dedicated to expanding access to higher education, workforce training, and career development for working adults. In her role, Nieto facilitates specialized programs and services that connect adult learners with critical resources to support their personal and professional growth. She is committed to helping students navigate educational systems, overcome barriers, and build sustainable pathways toward achieving their long-term academic and career goals.

Karyn Ruiz

Senior National Academic Specialist, Aztec Software

Karyn Crowe Ruiz is Senior National Academic Specialist for Aztec Software and a dedicated adult education leader with nearly two decades of teaching experience across ESL, ABE, GED, HiSET, and High School Diploma programs. She has served as an Accreditation Coordinator, Data Analyst, and multi-term Section President for the California Council for Adult Education. A sought-after presenter, Ms. Ruiz delivers professional development nationwide for organizations including Aztec, GED, CASAS, CALPRO, and COABE. Holding advanced degrees in Curriculum & Instruction and Educational Leadership, she leverages her expertise in course design, data analysis, and state advocacy to empower adult learners and strengthen educational pathways.

Neshia Jenkins

Outreach & Engagement

North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE) has served the community since 1973, providing tuition-free, noncredit educational programs that support adult learners across North Orange County. As the noncredit division of the North Orange County Community College District—alongside Cypress College and Fullerton College—NOCE is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and offers state-approved coursework. NOCE provides accessible pathways in adult basic education, English as a Second Language, high school diploma completion, career technical education, and disability support services, empowering diverse community members to achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals.

Dr. Adrianna Gonzalez

Department Chair & Professor, ABE/GED/HiSET, SAC SCE

Dr. Adrianna Gonzalez is Professor and Department Chair of Adult Basic Education and High School Equivalency at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education. With 23 years of experience in adult education, she is dedicated to empowering diverse adult learners through high-quality instruction, student-centered leadership, and expanded career pathways. Dr. Gonzalez earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of La Verne and holds graduate and undergraduate degrees in English and Political Science. Her long-standing work focuses on fostering equitable educational opportunities, supporting adult literacy and high school completion, and building sustainable academic pathways that foster long-term student success and economic mobility.

Mayra Diaz

Program Lead for Adult Education, California Community Colleges

Mayra Diaz is the Program Lead for the California Adult Education Program (CAEP) at the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. She oversees the statewide administration, policy implementation, and strategic initiatives for CAEP while serving as the regional monitor for Los Angeles across the Workforce and Economic Development portfolio. With over 17 years of experience in the California Community College system, her background spans financial aid, student services, noncredit programs, and teaching Citizenship to English language learners. As an equity champion, Mayra is dedicated to removing institutional barriers to student achievement and advancing economic mobility for adult learners.

Dr. Jose Lopez Mercedes

ESL Professor/Distance Education Faculty Coordinator

Dr. Jose Lopez Mercedes serves as Distance Education Faculty Coordinator for Santa Ana College's (SAC) School of Continuing Education. A SAC alumnus, he has served the Rancho Santiago Community College District since 2000 across classified and faculty roles. Since 2020, he has guided over 300 faculty members through online teaching certification and quality course reviews. He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with research focused on distance learning access for ESL Latino male students. An active leader in AI integration, he co-leads district AI initiatives and serves as Secretary of the California Community Colleges Distance Education Coordinators Organization.

Jennifer Hoeger

Associate Dean of Instruction and Student Services, SAC SCE

Jennifer Hoeger is Associate Dean of Instruction and Student Services at Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education, where she leads marketing, communications, and outreach. Her background is in marketing, but teaching took her around the world—living and working in China, South Korea, and Japan to teach English and develop curriculum for adult learners. These experiences inspired her commitment to clear, student-first communication. She joined Santa Ana College over a decade ago as part-time ESL faculty. Beyond SAC, she serves as a 2026–27 Strategic Enrollment Management Academy coach and is earning her doctorate at Pepperdine University.

Greg Hill, Jr.

Senior Research Associate, WestEd

Greg Hill Jr. is a Senior Research Associate in Economic Mobility, Postsecondary & Workforce Systems at WestEd, leading research, evaluation, and technical assistance in adult education and career pathways. He specializes in applying data science, geospatial intelligence, and data visualization via R, Tableau, and ArcGIS to drive system-wide change and strategic planning. Hill works closely with decision-makers to help teams leverage data to improve equitable outcomes for historically underserved students, measure progress toward shared goals, and increase operational effectiveness. His work focuses on turning complex data into actionable strategies that expand opportunity and advance student success.

Albert Alvano

Associate Professor/Counselor, SCC

Albert Alvano is an Associate Professor and Counselor in the Division of Continuing Education at Santiago Canyon College. His work focuses on the Rising Scholars program, providing dedicated support to formerly incarcerated and justice-impacted students on campus, as well as in local Orange County jails and juvenile halls. In addition to his counseling role, Alvano serves as Vice President of the Academic Senate at Santiago Canyon College. Holding a master’s degree in counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, he leverages his background to expand educational access, advocate for adult learners, and help students successfully navigate path-to-degree and career opportunities.

Yessenia Gutierrez

Regional Supervisor OC, United Resource Center

Yessenia Gutierrez is a Regional Supervisor for Orange County at the United Resource Center, bringing over nine years of experience in community support, advocacy, and adult education. She is passionate about empowering adult learners by expanding access to educational opportunities and creating clear pathways for personal and professional growth. In her role, Gutierrez works to build supportive networks that help individuals develop confidence, achieve their goals, and navigate educational systems. As a dedicated advocate for lifelong learning and success, she remains committed to fostering community-driven opportunities that strengthen economic mobility and support individuals throughout Orange County.

Pattie Córdova

CEO, Orange Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau

Pattie Córdova is the Chief Executive Officer of the Orange Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, where she champions local businesses and drives economic vitality across the City of Orange. A passionate advocate for collaboration, she works closely with business, nonprofit, educational, and civic leaders to create a thriving community. Under her leadership, the Chamber launched the inaugural Best of Orange Awards and expanded key programs, including leadership forums and business networking events. Dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs and highlighting success stories, Cordova has established the Chamber as a vibrant hub for advocacy, meaningful partnerships, and economic opportunity.

Alejandro Moreno

Professor/Counselor, SAC SCE

Alejandro Moreno is a Professor and Counselor at the Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education, where he has dedicated over 20 years to supporting adult learners. With extensive experience across K–12 and higher education, he focuses on advancing student equity, expanding educational access, and creating clear pathways from noncredit to credit and career programs. Moreno has served in key leadership roles, including Counseling Department Co-Chair and Academic Senate Parliamentarian, contributing to initiatives like Adult Dual Enrollment and Guided Pathways. He is deeply committed to providing historically underserved and first-generation students with the guidance needed to achieve long-term success.

Dr. Refugio Rodriguez

Acting Associate Dean, Career Ed & Dual Enrollment, Santa Ana College

Dr. Rodriguez serves as Acting Associate Dean of Career Education and Dual Enrollment at Santa Ana College, providing strategic leadership for workforce development, career technical education, and dual enrollment initiatives. His extensive background spans K–12 education, four-year universities, and community colleges, with previous roles including faculty member, school principal, district administrator, and early college high school founder. Holding doctorates in both Educational Leadership and Social Work, Dr. Rodriguez combines strong administrative expertise with a commitment to student success, collaborating across regional educational partnerships to expand dual enrollment access, streamline career pathways, and align academic programs with regional economic needs for adult and high school learners.

Dulce Delgadillo

Director, Office of Institutional Research and Planning, NOCE

Dulce Delgadillo is the Director of Institutional Research and Planning at North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE), a standalone noncredit institution in the California Community College system. She supports the statewide Community College Technical Assistance Provider (CC TAP) team, assisting consortia and colleges with capacity building in adult education. Delgadillo has chaired the Noncredit Regional Research Group since 2019 and serves as the RP Group's Orange County Regional Representative. Additionally, she contributes to the Chancellor’s Office Data Governance Advisory Workgroup. Delgadillo translates complex noncredit research and metrics into actionable insights, ensuring adult learners are accurately represented in statewide accountability systems.

Carrie Patton

Professor, HS Subjects, SAC SCE

Carrie Patton has dedicated 28 years to teaching in the High School Diploma Program at Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education, advancing literacy, equity, and student success. Holding a master’s degree in Reading, she designs accessible instructional strategies tailored to diverse learning styles, helping noncredit students build skills and confidence to transition to college and the workforce. Patton focuses on strengthening connections between noncredit and credit programs while refining online curriculum. Her current work centers on integrating artificial intelligence into instruction as an innovative learning tool, empowering adult students to develop critical thinking, academic proficiency, and long-term independence as lifelong learners.

Fleur Fong, M.S.

Faculty Coordinator and Assistant Professor, Older & Active Adults Program, Santa Ana College

Fleur Fong is Faculty Coordinator and Assistant Professor in Santa Ana College’s Older & Active Adults Program, leading curriculum development, faculty support, and community partnerships to expand equitable access to lifelong learning. With expertise in kinesiology, health, and wellness, Fong develops inclusive educational programs for underserved midlife and older adult learners while actively addressing participation barriers and challenging ageism in higher education. At the Vision 2030 Noncredit Summit, she joins colleagues from Santa Monica and Saddleback Colleges to present three effective organizational models for launching, scaling, and sustaining successful Older Adult noncredit programs across California’s community college system.

Dr. Michael Sacoto

Executive Director, Orange County Regional Consortium, RSCCD

Dr. Michael Sacoto serves as Executive Director of the Orange County Regional Consortium (OCRC), leading regional career education and workforce development initiatives across Orange County. Bringing over a decade of higher education leadership, he aligns regional educational pathways with labor market demands and advises community college executives on strategic career investments. Dr. Sacoto oversees multi-million-dollar Strong Workforce Program portfolios, fostering cross-system collaboration among K–12 districts, community colleges, and industry partners. He earned his Ph.D. in Urban Educational Leadership from Claremont Graduate University and holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees from the University of La Verne.