Cypress College's very own Jolena Grande has been appointed to the California Community Colleges Board of Governors. Grande, who teaches mortuary science at the college, was tapped by Governor Jerry Brown to serve on the Community College Oversight Board. Her appointment was announced by the Governor's Office on Friday, June 1, 2018.
California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley said of Grande's appointment, "Ms. Grande has an impressive resume, serving in both the private sector and within our system. Her experience as a career technical education faculty member and program director will bring valuable perspectives to the board as we pursue the goals outlined in our Vision for Success and serve our 2.1 million students."
Grande, a licensed embalmer at Service Corporation International since 2009, has been teaching at Cypress College for 23 years. She has enjoyed working as a licensed embalmer, crematory manager, and funeral director at Heritage Memorial Services, McCormick and Son, Inc., Westminster Memorial Park and Mortuary, and Peek Family Colonial Funeral Home. Grande is a member of the National Association of Colleges of Mortuary Science and the American Board of Funeral Service Education. She earned a master of science degree in education technology and a master of forensic sciences degree from National University.