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Trailblazer

Mt. San Antonio College Magazine

Introducing Trailblazer, our new online magazine! 

Students on side of helicopter

Click through and discover inspiring stories of student success, innovative programs shaping the future, and the remarkable individuals who make up our vibrant Mountie community.

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A Message from the President

As I mark almost two years of serving as President and CEO of Mt. San Antonio College, I feel tremendous pride in leading California's fourth largest community college. This past academic year, we served 70,000 students, more than half of those noncredit, and continued work on a new Education and Facilities Plan called Mt. SAC 2035. This strategic blueprint will drive efforts to serve our students for the next 10 years.  Crafted through a DEISA+ and healing-centered lens, it leads to the accomplishment of the College's vision, mission and values through long-term goals and shared measures of success. 

While I definitely enjoy the excitement of the start of the school year in the Fall,  Spring is one of my favorite times. The season brings with it a feeling of renewal and hope as well as the opportunity to reflect on the past year's achievements and look ahead to the future. One of the most joyful parts for me is when we celebrate the many accomplishments of our Mt. SAC students. Whether it is earning a high school diploma as an adult learner, transferring to a four-year university, or completing a career technical education certificate, our students continue to inspire us with their determination and drive.

Leading the Way

Jennifer Mac Donald

Mt. San Antonio College is set to offer its very own bachelor’s degree in Histotechnology starting this Fall.

“There is a nationwide shortage of histotechnicians, and this is a high-skill, high-wage profession,” said Jennifer Mac Donald, Histotechnology professor and the program’s director. “Our students are in high demand and often get hired before completing the program.”

Wildland Fire Technology Program Grows

Mt. SAC Academy Students

Second Academy Finished this Spring

To address this growing need and support industry efforts to combat wildfires locally and across the state, Mt. SAC last year established a Wildland Fire Technology Certificate and Degree program to train and certify wildland firefighters.

“These jobs are good paying, with wages well above the family-sustaining level and have projected growth over the next decade and beyond,” said Ray Mosack, director of Public Safety Programs. “Between now and 2030, California will need to fill an estimated 21,520 job openings for firefighters due to retirements, resignations, and growth positions.”

Planting the Seeds: Women of Color Leadership Conference

Wocan Group

Taking the stage at this Spring’s inaugural Women of Color Action Network Conference, Mt. San Antonio College President/CEO Dr. Martha Garcia lit up the room. “I love the energy I feel in this space right now,” she said. “Let’s take a moment to recognize that this is a gift to us—and we deserve it.”

 

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Trailblazer Magazine

Editor: Jill Dolan
Designer: Jeffrey B. George
Contributors: Greg MacDonald and Uyen Mai
Photos: Robert Bledsoe, Jill Dolan and Uyen Mai. Special thanks to Eneas Arrezola, Sam Dominguez and Kayla Glenn for their photos.