MSJC Announces Four Finalists in National Search for Next Superintendent/President
4/10/2026
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) has announced four finalists in its national search for the next Superintendent/President, marking a major milestone in a comprehensive and inclusive selection process led by the MSJC Board of Trustees.
The search, conducted in partnership with the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), attracted a highly competitive pool of candidates from across the country. A representative, constituency-based search committee, comprised of trustees, faculty, classified professionals, administrators, the student body, and community members, played a central role in screening applicants and advancing candidates through multiple stages of review.
On April 7, the search committee completed semifinalist interviews and recommended the following four finalists (listed in alphabetical order) to move forward for consideration by the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Lonita Cordova, Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Student Services, San Joaquin Delta College
Dr. Lonita Cordova is a transformative executive leader and U.S. Navy veteran with more than two decades of experience in California’s community college system. Known for aligning complex institutional operations with a student-centered mission, she has held leadership roles across multiple districts, including Modesto Junior College and Merced Community College District. A past president of the Association of California Community College Administrators (ACCCA), Dr. Cordova brings strong state-level leadership experience and a commitment to removing systemic barriers to student success.
Dr. Tawny Dotson, President, Yuba College
Dr. Tawny Dotson is a seasoned community college president with extensive experience leading institutional operations, including strategic planning, instruction, student services, and fiscal management. Since 2020, she has led Yuba College, focusing on student-centered outcomes and organizational effectiveness. Her career spans multiple states and leadership roles, including vice president and chief of staff positions. A retired U.S. Air Force officer, Dr. Dotson brings a strong service-oriented leadership approach and is actively engaged in statewide and national policy and leadership initiatives.
Dr. Jeannie G. Kim, President, Santiago Canyon College
Dr. Jeannie G. Kim brings more than 37 years of higher education leadership experience across the University of California, California State University, and California Community College systems, as well as private institutions. Currently serving as president of Santiago Canyon College since 2023, she is recognized for her work in equity, innovation, and institutional transformation. An expert in strategic planning and organizational change, Dr. Kim has also contributed to national and global conversations on education, technology, and workforce development, with a particular focus on human-centered artificial intelligence.
Dr. Daniel López, President, Harold Washington College (City Colleges of Chicago)
Dr. Daniel López is a nationally recognized higher education leader with over 30 years of experience in academic and student affairs. Currently serving as president of Harold Washington College since 2019, he is deeply committed to student success, equity, and social mobility. A first-generation college graduate and former undocumented student, Dr. López brings a powerful personal and professional perspective to his work. He is actively involved in national leadership organizations, including serving in key roles with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and the Illinois Latino Council on Higher Education.
Campus Forums and Community Engagement
As part of the final phase of the search process, MSJC will host campus tours and open forums for each finalist on:
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (back-to-back sessions)
Location: Temecula Valley Campus, Boardroom (TA-301)
Each finalist will participate in a public forum, offering students, employees, and community members the opportunity to learn more about their leadership experience, values, and vision for MSJC. A livestream link will be provided and available at msjc.edu/presidentialsearch
A form to submit questions in advance and to provide feedback following each forum will be shared in the coming days.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, the District encourages broad campus and community participation and looks forward to valuable input during this important stage of the selection process.
About the Search
The search for MSJC’s next Superintendent/President follows the planned retirement of longtime Superintendent/President Dr. Roger Schultz and reflects the District’s commitment to identifying a visionary leader to guide the College into its next chapter.
The process has emphasized transparency, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement, while maintaining appropriate confidentiality to attract a strong and diverse candidate pool. The final selection will be made by the MSJC Board of Trustees, with an anticipated announcement in May 2026.
For updates, full finalists' bios, and additional information, visit: msjc.edu/presidentialsearch