Evergreen Community College: A Legacy of Opportunity, Equity, and Social Justice
San José - Evergreen Community College District (SJECCD) stands as a testament to the transformative power of education in the heart of Silicon Valley. Encompassing more than 300 square miles, including most of the city of San José and all of the city of Milpitas, the District includes the areas served by Milpitas Unified School District, San José Unified School District, and East Side Union High School District. From its humble beginnings as San José Junior College in 1921 to its current status as a multi-campus district, SJECCD has remained committed to meeting the diverse educational and workforce needs of its community. Today, SJECCD is comprised of San José City College (SJCC), which was the first community college in Santa Clara County, established in 1921; Evergreen Valley College (EVC), established in 1975; and the San José - Evergreen Community College Extension at Milpitas, established in 2016.
A Foundation Built on Vision and Values
SJECCD's mission is clear: to empower students to become agents of socio-economic change. This mission is underpinned by a vision of being the premier post-secondary education institution in the region, advancing opportunity, equity, and social justice through educational excellence. These core values are not mere words; they are integrated into the district's strategic planning and represent foundational commitments to the communities it serves.
The district's commitment to student success is further demonstrated through its policies and civility statements, ensuring a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all. Accreditation, a voluntary system of self-regulation and peer review, underscores the district's dedication to institutional integrity, quality, and effectiveness.
The Genesis of an Educational Hub
The story of SJECCD begins with San José City College (SJCC), originally known as San José Junior College. Established in 1921, it was initially overseen by San José State College. In 1953, the college moved to its present location on Moorpark Avenue and was managed directly by the San José Unified School District. The college's name was officially changed to San José City College in 1958.
A significant turning point arrived in 1963 when a faculty-led effort resulted in the establishment of the independent San José Junior College District. This marked the beginning of a new era of growth and expansion, driven by the needs of the rapidly evolving Silicon Valley.
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Evergreen Valley College: A Jewel in the Crown
In 1967, it was decided that a site in Evergreen, in East San Jose, would be the location of a new college. Following a study by a Citizens' Advisory Committee, the district's second campus, Evergreen Valley College (EVC), opened its doors in 1975. Welcoming an initial enrollment of 3,000 students, EVC quickly became a vital component of the district, offering a wide range of academic and vocational programs. The college was officially named Evergreen Valley College in 1970.
Vinicio J. López, the ninth president of Evergreen Valley College, encapsulates the college's significance: "San Jose residents cannot travel in this city without knowing someone who has a family member, colleague or friend who attended EVC." He reflects on the college's journey from a "country road" to a "launchpad for engineers, artists, elected officials, automotive mechanics, nurses, entrepreneurs and much more."
Expanding Horizons: The Milpitas Extension
Recognizing the growing demand for accessible education, the San José - Evergreen Community College Extension at Milpitas was established in 2016. This extension campus further broadened the district's reach, providing educational opportunities to the residents of Milpitas and surrounding communities.
Investing in the Future: Infrastructure and Innovation
SJECCD has consistently invested in its infrastructure to provide state-of-the-art learning environments for its students. Through a series of successful bond measures-Measure I in 1998, Measure G in 2004, Measure G in 2010, and Measure X in 2016-the district has secured funding for building and remodeling facilities on all its campuses. These investments, coupled with state funds and private donations, have revitalized the infrastructure of both Colleges, District Office, and the College Extension. Bond measures have allowed the building of much needed facilities such as classrooms and labs for biological sciences and nursing education programs, a robust Library, a center to accommodate vibrant student life, and the Montgomery Hill Observatory.
A Legacy of Impact: Faculty Perspectives
The faculty at SJECCD are deeply committed to student success and creating a lasting impact on their lives. Their reflections on their legacies reveal a shared dedication to empowering students and fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation.
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Bianca Lopez (SSAKAUltimately): "I want to be remembered for investing in people and systems that uplift others."
Esperanza Oueterino-Feijoo (Language Arts): "I hope to be remembered as a professor who cared deeply about students -someone who helped them believe in their potential and understand the power of education to transform their lives and the lives of others. I want my students to remember feeling valued, supported, and encouraged to grow, and to use their education to make a positive difference in their communities."
Grace Estrada (Psychology): "I hope my legacy will be helping to build a stronger foundation for our students through the implementation of a two-year course offering plan."
Ingrid Rottman (Outreach): "My legacy will be one of igniting belief in those who doubt their potential. My message is simple: Education is possible. Dreams are possible."
John Kaufmann (Theatre Arts): "There are so many students that have had an opportunity to express themselves and find community through collaboration on EVC's stages and classrooms. Most of them will not go on to work in professional theatre, but whatever they do will benefit from the 'soft skills' they gained in classes and productions."
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Mark Bernbeck (Automotive): "My legacy will be measured by the caliber of the people that the Automotive Program produced, not just the machines they fixed."
Nasreen Rahim (Instructional Technology): "My legacy at EVC is one of perseverance and innovation in making technology accessible for all. From being the first Instructional Technology Faculty in 2000 to developing the district's first online course, I've dedicated myself to ensuring our college stays at the forefront of educational technology… I'm most proud that we've built a foundation where innovation isn't just about tools, but about equity, access, and empowering every learner."
Preeti Srinivasan (Chemistry): "I want my legacy to be that I helped students believe they belonged in science-even when chemistry felt intimidating."
Sean Dickerson (Student Life): "I move forward with the intention to be supportive and motivational for students that pass through my doors."
Tejal Nakik (Distance Education Coordinator): "I hope to leave a legacy where digital innovation and equity are inseparable."
These sentiments underscore the profound impact that SJECCD faculty have on their students, shaping not only their academic trajectories but also their personal and professional lives.
Evergreen Valley College Today
Evergreen Valley College opened its doors in 1975 to 3,000 students and currently hosts over 15,000 students from more than 70 countries. The college also provides mental health services and food through Second Harvest of Silicon Valley food bank donations. Most important, the college is a launchpad for engineers, artists, elected officials, automotive mechanics, nurses, entrepreneurs and much more.
A Parallel: The Evergreen State College
While focusing on Evergreen Community College, it's interesting to note a parallel in name and educational philosophy with The Evergreen State College in Washington. Founded in 1967 and offering classes in the fall of 1971, Evergreen in Washington shares a commitment to non-traditional education, interdisciplinary programs, and student empowerment. While their contexts and structures differ, both institutions reflect a broader movement towards innovative and student-centered approaches to higher education.
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