NOCCCD Board Meeting Highlights for April 28, 2026

Chancellor's Report

Chancellor Dr. Byron D. Clift Breland thanked those who attended the Latinx Summit held on April 23, as well as those who presented and supported the event. He recognized Dr. Flavio Medina-Martin for his leadership in organizing the summit, which focused on data-informed reflection and strengthening outcomes for Latinx students, who make up more than half of the District’s student population.

He shared that he will be attending the California Community Colleges League Trustee Conference on May 1-2 alongside members of the Board and noted that it provides an opportunity to engage in statewide discussions on key issues, including the State budget and priorities impacting community colleges. He also highlighted the upcoming Board Retreat on May 9, which will focus on governance, priorities, and the District's direction.

Chancellor Breland reported that the District plans to hire 29 faculty members for the 2026 to 2027 academic year, stating that this is a continued investment in instruction and student success. He concluded by recognizing the faculty members receiving tenure this year and their contributions to teaching, service, and student achievement.

Presentations

Tenure Achievements

Fullerton College President Dr. Cynthia Olivo recognized the following faculty members who achieved tenure:

• Edward Kim, Natural Sciences Division
• Amber Tsung Ju Kuo, Disability Support Services
• Dr. Anita Juarez, Ethnic Studies Department

Cypress College President Dr. Scott Thayer recognized the following faculty members who achieved tenure:

• Dr. Raymond Ranada, Radiologic Technology Program
• Dr. Cynthia Acosta, Psychiatric Technology Program
• Christina Villa, Mortuary Science Program
• Francisco Perez, Biology Department

NOCE Impact Report

North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE) President Valentina Purtell presented the NOCE Impact Report, reporting a total of 4,323.71 FTES in 2024 to 2025, along with 16,555 students served and 1,802 certificates awarded across programs.

The report also highlighted more than 10,000 student interactions through the Student Navigator Program, 8,637 food pantry visits supporting 32,897 individuals, and 81% course retention with 73% course success.

She also reported on institutional quality efforts, including completion of the WASC Mid-Cycle Report and implementation of a new Student Learning Outcomes assessment tool, as well as investments in student engagement and student-centered facilities and services.

Board Actions

The Board of Trustees acted on agenda items, including those highlighted below:

• Authorization to receive as information the draft North Orange Continuing Education 2026 Accreditation Mid-Cycle Report.
• Authorization to adopt Resolution No. 25/26-46, declaring the week of May 4-8, 2026, as Teacher Appreciation Week
• Authorization to receive the proposed, revised Board Policies and direct that they be placed on a future Board meeting agenda for action.

Human Resources

The Board approved the hiring of Anaheim Campus IT Specialist II, Network, David Jimenez.  

The Board also approved the retirement of Fullerton College, English Instructor, Jeanne Costello; Fullerton College English Instructor, Douglas Eisner; and Cypress College Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Instructor, Douglas Sallade.  

The Board approved the resignations of Fullerton College Student Life & Leadership Director, Naomi Abesamis; Fullerton College Alternate Media Specialist, Danielle Barbaro Harrell; Anaheim Campus IT Security Analyst/ Sys Admin, Andrew Bruce; and NOCE Student Services Specialist for DSS, Denise Larsson.

Chancellor Staff Reports

Fullerton College

Fullerton College President Dr. Cynthia Olivo extended condolences on the passing of former Financial Aid Coordinator Nancy Larson.

She shared that the men’s volleyball team advanced to the state championship semifinals for the first time. The team marked the moment by dyeing their hair gold, and appreciation was extended to Coach Eddie Rapp and the team for their effort and achievement.  

In addition, President Olivo acknowledged Dr. Connie Moreno Yamashiro and Julio Reyes-Cabezas for leading Undocu Student Ally Training for more than 1,000 California community college professionals through the State Chancellor’s Office.  

She concluded by announcing that the Fullerton College annual Foundation Gala is scheduled for Saturday, October 23, 2026, and those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Dr. Lisa Nashua.

Cypress College

Cypress College President Dr. Scott Thayer shared that the Health and Wellness Center hosted the Denim Day Resource Fair and Clothesline Project on campus. The Clothesline Project featured t-shirts displayed to share the stories of sexual assault survivors and included a resource fair with a self-defense workshop, restorative yoga, and representatives from support services on and off campus.

President Thayer also reported that registration for summer and fall is underway and progressing well, with summer enrollment up approximately 5% in headcount and 6% in FTES.

He concluded by extending congratulations to the faculty who received tenure.

Educational Services & Institutional Effectiveness

Vice Chancellor of Educational Services and Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Jennifer Vega La Serna thanked Cypress College, Fullerton College, and District Services staff for the warm welcome at the recent Chancellor’s Connect.  

She also informed the Board that on Friday, May 1, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Anaheim Campus, the District will host a Student-Centered Funding Initiatives Academy. The event will bring together 75 faculty, staff, and administrators from across the campuses and District Services, with presenters supporting discussions on scheduling, enrollment, and the budget.

Administrative Services

Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services Dr. John Parker also thanked the campuses for their hospitality during the recent Chancellor’s Connect events.

He shared that Cypress College will host a campus budget update on Monday, May 11, and Fullerton College will host its update on Wednesday, May 13. NOCE will also host a campus budget update with details to be announced.

He shared that campus leaders will present on year-to-date actuals, year-end forecasts, and the fiscal outlook for 2026–27, with additional information on locations and times to be provided later.

Resource Table Reports

District Management Association

District Management Association President Karla Frizler thanked the District and Human Resources for their collaboration following the release of the job family study results.

She encouraged classified staff to review their job descriptions and report any errors or omissions to their immediate supervisor within ten working days of receiving their notification. She also encouraged supervisors to offer group or individual meetings based on staff needs.

Academic Senate

NOCE  Academic Senate President Michelle Patrick-Norng shared that the Academic Senate will hold its final meeting of the year on May 5, where members will vote on items including grading schemes in Canvas, revisions to DE addenda, and the potential adoption of a myGateway-style drop survey.

She also recognized Program Review Committee members Jennifer Oo, Alli Stanojkovic, Jennifer Carey, Dr. Kenny Yu, and Khanh Ninh for their time and contributions in reviewing submissions adn providing feedback.

She concluded by sharing that highlights from the Academic Senate’s work were recently presented at the NOCE President’s Cabinet, and that materials will be shared with the Board.

Cypress College Academic Senate President Jaclyn Magginetti shared that the Senate recently appointed seven faculty members to leadership roles, noting the importance of these positions in supporting college operations and student success.

She thanked Chancellor Breland for hosting the Chancellor Connect event and for attending the Adjunct Faculty Award presentation, noting that his presence was meaningful to faculty.

She also extended congratulations to newly tenured faculty at Cypress College and Fullerton College.

Fullerton College Academic Senate President Bridget Kominek congratulated faculty receiving tenure, recognizing their achievement and continued commitment to student success.  

She also shared that Fullerton College will host its first Latinx graduation celebration this semester, noting that the event will join other established celebrations, including Black Grad and Lavender Grad.  

She concluded by sharing that the Senate will consider a resolution in response to proposed federal changes to institutional eligibility under the Higher Education Act, as communicated by ACCJC.

CSEA

CSEA President Elaine Loayza addressed the ongoing District’s Job Family Study negotiations. She requested that implementation of the MOU not be delayed by proposals that are not fiscally sound, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining employees and supporting longevity within the District. She concluded by urging a more efficient path forward in negotiations to reach an agreement in a timely manner.

Board of Trustees Reports

NOCE Student Trustee Kristine Nacu congratulated NOCE President Valentina Purtell on her presentation, noting the impact of student success stories and the importance of connection across the campus community.

She shared that the final Tea Time with the Student Trustee session will be held on Friday, May 1, with both in-person and virtual options, and noted that voting for the student trustee election is underway through May 1.

She also announced that the 2026 NOCE Commencement and Student Success Awards Ceremony will take place on May 15 at Cottonwood Church in Los Alamitos.  

Fullerton College Student Trustee Samiy Castillo Bolivar congratulated newly tenured faculty and highlighted recent student activities, including a successful Inter-Club Council thrifting event, Kinder Caminata, and upcoming Associated Students events.

He reported that the student government is reviewing the food services contract with Sodexo, with a focus on addressing food insecurity and improving meal options.

He concluded by inviting the Board to attend the Fullerton College dance concert this Saturday, where he will also be performing.

Cypress College Student Trustee Zachary Colinco highlighted the WorldFest event hosted by the Inter-Club Council, which received positive feedback from students and clubs.  

He announced that the campus will host a career fair on May 6, providing students with opportunities to connect with local businesses, explore internships, and practice professional skills.

He concluded by recognizing English Professor Kathryn Sonne on her retirement, acknowledging her contributions to the Honors Program. 

Trustee Evangelina Rosales shared a few words of encouragement to students as the semester comes to a close and reminded them to prioritize self-care as they approach the finish line.

She also congratulated faculty who received tenure, acknowledging their dedication and commitment.

Board President Dr. Barbara Dunsheath thanked classified professionals at Cypress College for organizing the upcoming Duck Derby fundraiser on May 6, which supports student scholarships.

She also highlighted the upcoming Yom HaShoah event and shared that she recently attended the CCCTE CEO joint meeting, where discussions focused on efforts to expand the community college baccalaureate degree, including the formation of a statewide alliance to support related legislation.

She concluded by sharing that the Cypress Chamber of Commerce will host a recognition event on May 7 honoring members connected to the Cypress College Foundation.

Public Comments

Rod Lusch, retired CSEA  member, spoke regarding the District’s proposal related to longevity pay for new hires and expressed the importance of maintaining equitable compensation.

Aaron Pilkey spoke on behalf of Teresa Cespedes regarding concerns related to the District’s Job Family Study. 

Next Meeting

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the NOCCCD Board of Trustees will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the Anaheim Campus.