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MSJC Delegation Advocates for Legislative Priorities in Sacramento

1/30/2025

A delegation from Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC), led by Superintendent/President Dr. Roger Schultz, traveled to the State Capitol to attend the California Community League annual Legislative Conference and meet with key California legislators to advocate for critical funding and policy initiatives that impact MSJC students and the broader community.

The delegation, which included Superintendent/President Dr. Roger Schultz, Trustee Jhalister Corona, Student Trustee Sam Cardenas, and Director of Institutional Advancement & Government Relations Karin Marriott, engaged in discussions with State Senators Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa), Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta), and Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona), as well as Assemblymembers Bill Essayli (R-Corona), Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio), and Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita).

During these meetings, the MSJC delegation emphasized the importance of securing legislative support for three key priorities:

1. Fully Funding Enrollments, Including Support for K-12 Dual Enrollment – Ensuring adequate funding to support student growth and increase access to higher education through dual enrollment partnerships with K-12 districts.
2. Workforce Development Funding for Emerging Programs – Advocating for investment in high-demand fields, including Regional Media, Regenerative Systems, Radiologic Technology, and Fire Technology, to prepare students for critical workforce needs.
3. Support for High-Priority Students – Securing resources to enhance educational access and success for historically underserved student populations.

“These priorities are essential to ensuring student success and meeting the workforce demands of our region,” said Dr. Roger Schultz, MSJC Superintendent/President. “We are grateful to the legislators who took the time to meet with us and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of higher education in Southwest Riverside.”

The discussions were highly productive, with legislators collectively acknowledging the significance of MSJC's key priorities. They expressed strong support for dual enrollment programs as a means of creating seamless pathways from high school to college, emphasized the need for robust workforce development funding to support emerging career fields, and underscored the importance of equitable access to higher education.

"As a student, I see firsthand how these programs can change lives," said Student Trustee Sam Cardenas.

"These initiatives open doors for students who might not otherwise have access to higher education or career opportunities. It’s inspiring to know that our legislators are listening and recognizing the importance of investing in our future."

MSJC remains committed to advocating for policies that support students, faculty, and the community. “These conversations are just the beginning,” said Trustee Jhalister Corona. “We look forward to working with our legislative partners to turn these priorities into action.”