A group of Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) students attended the Umoja Conference in Los Angeles from October 31 to November 2, 2024. This empowering and transformative event aligns with the Umoja program's mission to enhance African Americans' and other students' cultural and educational experiences.
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) is pleased to announce that a member of the college's faculty will be releasing her first book. Lena Nelson, English as a Second Language instructor in MSJC's Adult Education department authored America's Youngest Ambassador: The Cold War Story of Samantha Smith's Lasting Message of Peace a comprehensive story of the late Samantha Smith, a fifth grader in Manchester, Maine.
Nearly 900 graduates participated in one of the two graduation ceremonies. The Class of 2023 includes graduates from 17 years old to 69 years young.
While excelling academically, Diego Martinez has made a significant impact beyond the classroom. He served as the president of MSJC's Student Government Association during the 2022-23 academic year. He actively represented MSJC students not only on campus, but throughout the state. Last year, he served as a delegate on the Student Senate for California Community Colleges where he advocated for basic needs, housing, financial aid, and other student initiatives.
Kennidy Martin excels both on the court and in the classroom. Throughout her time at MSJC, Kennidy has maintained a 4.0 GPA and is the captain of the volleyball team. Her college career began at a neighboring community college but found a connection at MSJC. Kennidy demonstrates exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to service, volunteering in her community's volleyball club.
In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, Dalton Denis a former Marine, celebrated a major milestone earning an Associate of Science degree in just a year and a half. Applying training and skills acquired during his military service, Dalton is an example of the potential for personal growth and academic success.
We celebrate the inspiring journey of Jessica Hulett, a mother of five, who is graduating from MSJC with a degree in accounting. Jessica's academic journey has been marked by relentless dedication and unwavering commitment. Despite the challenges she faced, she enrolled at MSJC in 2003 and that same year dropped out due to health issues. According to her, this was a good thing since her grades reflected her motivation.
Olivia Gonzales, from Winchester, graduated from Chapparal High School in 2021 and immediately enrolled at MSJC earning the Promise Grant which paid for her first two years of college. "Having the opportunity to attend for free for two years really helped my family," she said.
Elba "Irene" Blanco didn't let a challenge stand in her way. She came to the United States five years ago, unable to speak English. To learn English, she enrolled in English as a Second Language classes at MSJC. Her counselors in the ESL program motivated her to keep going and enroll in credit classes. She had the desire to pursue a career in the medical field. Despite warnings it would be tough, she enrolled in prerequisite math and science courses and graduated with a 4.0 GPA.
In a heartwarming display of determination, perseverance, support, and love, a mother and son duo achieved a significant milestone by graduating together. Isabel and Gabriel Bugarin are walking today, both receiving associate degrees. Isabel's began her journey at MSJC in 1999 but didn't last long. During the pandemic, access to online education motivated her to explore opportunities and she re-enrolled. "I'm glad we have online classes. With my family, I'm able to work on my schoolwork on my time and focus on kids without having the stress of going to class."
For many students, community college provides a unique opportunity to explore different fields of study, develop essential skills, and prepare for transfer, or launching a career. For Glenda Dixson, MSJC was a place where she was transformed.