Women Champions of DEIAA recognized in the Anaheim Campus Board Room

Presenting NOCCCD’s 3rd Annual Women Champions of DEIAA

By Melissa Lum

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In honor of Women’s History Month, women across the District were recognized for their inspiring contributions to advancing DEIAA efforts.

The 3rd Annual Women Champions of DEIAA was celebrated at last week’s Board of Trustees meeting. This award is a chance for members of the community to personally nominate women at our institutions that have demonstrated significant leadership in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism and accessibility at North Orange Community College District.

This year, 26 women were nominated as women champions of DEIAA. Ranging from administrative assistants to directors and faculty members, all of the nominees have influenced their campuses and departments and inspired their coworkers.

NOCCCD would like to thank all the women who have given their time, energy, and attention so that we can continue building upon our legacy as “The Destination District.”

Congratulations to all!

2026 Champions

Cypress College

  • Elli Constatin, Director, Distance Education
  • Jenelle Herman, Faculty & Professor, Language Arts
  • Rosemary Ranel, Faculty & Counselor, Puente Program

Fullerton College

  • Dr. Mega Lorraine Debin, Faculty & Professor, Art History
  • Dr. Arnette Edwards, Faculty & Counselor
  • Kristin Mihaylovich, Faculty & Professor, Fine Arts
  • Dr. Queen Peterson, Faculty & Counselor
  • Melanie Kay Rosa, Faculty & Professor, Dance
  • Valerie Salazar, Director, Education Partnerships & Programs

NOCE

  • RayRay Andres, Rising Scholars Program
  • Yanett Camarillo, Classified Professional & Clerical Assistant, English As A Second Language
  • Khanh N. Ninh, Faculty & Counselor

District Services

  • Kai Stearns Davis, District Director, Public & Governmental Affairs

Honorable Mentions

Cypress College

  • Gabriela De La Cruz, Director, Financial Aid
  • Samreen Manjra, Faculty & Professor, Business & CIS
  • Patricia Menchaca, Dean, Engineering & Math
  • Mercedes Milner, Admin Support, President's Office
  • Angela Sardan, Career Center Coordinator, Career Planning & Workforce

Fullerton College

  • Kristine Nikkoo, Director, Academic Support Programs
  • McKenna Pomeroy, Special Projects Coordinator, Dual Enrollment

NOCE

  • Violeta Aguilera Valdes, Grants & Special Projects Assistant, English As A Second Language

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