COMMENTARY: The power of community colleges

This commentary was contributed by Irma Gonzalez, Gavilan Community College Trustee Area 7. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. BenitoLink invites all community members to share their ideas and opinions. By registering as a BenitoLink user in the top right corner of our home page and agreeing to follow our Terms of Use, you can write counter opinions or share your insights on current issues. Lea este articulo en español aquí.

As your Gavilan Community College Trustee representing Area 7, I’d like to highlight the vital role that community colleges play in supporting student success. Gavilan College and all community colleges offer affordable education and training, helping students gain the skills they need to succeed in their careers. They also provide a pathway to transferring to four-year colleges and universities for students who may not have had the opportunity otherwise.

In an era where higher education is increasingly out of reach for many, community colleges like Gavilan College are more important than ever. By providing accessible and affordable education, we can help students achieve their goals and contribute to the economic growth of our communities.

I am excited to be a part of this momentous occasion as the Gavilan Community College Trustee representing Area 7, where our new Hollister Campus will be opening its doors, this Fall! This is a game-changer for our community, providing students with the opportunity to attend college locally. With our dual enrollment program, local high school students can earn their high school diploma and associate degree at the same time. Imagine being able to attend classes, participate in extracurricular activities, and build connections with your peers and instructors all within our own community.

The excitement around this new campus is palpable, and I’m excited to see the impact it will have on our students and our community. With more access to education and training, our students will be better equipped to pursue their passions, enter the workforce, and contribute to our local economy.

As your Gavilan College Trustee representing Area 7, I’m committed to ensuring that Gavilan Community College continues to provide high-quality education and training to our students. Every student deserves access to opportunities that will help them succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Let’s continue to support Gavilan College and the important work that they do. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students and help them achieve their dreams.