Santa Rosa Junior College: A Beacon of Stability in Uncertain Times

Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) is standing strong in the face of challenges. The college is dealing with changes in enrollment, financial pressures, and shifting student needs. But President Dr. Angélica Garcia is determined to keep SRJC a reliable force in the community. Garcia believes that while the future is uncertain, SRJC can provide stability. She wants the college to be more than just a backup option for students. It should be the top choice for local students and those returning to education. This is crucial for addressing workforce needs and breaking cycles of poverty in Sonoma County. The college is focusing on high-demand programs like nursing, first responder training, and construction. These programs help prepare the next generation of workers. SRJC has also been upgrading its classrooms to meet future needs. However, Garcia acknowledges that more needs to be done to attract and retain students. Enrollment at SRJC has been bouncing back. The total number of students for the 2024-2025 school year is about 33, 300, a 3. 5% increase from the previous year. The college is seeing growth in its Petaluma and Roseland campuses, with more Latino students and older adults enrolling. But to meet its long-term goals, SRJC needs to close a gap of over 2, 600 students. To continue improving, SRJC is exploring a new bond to finance facility upgrades. The college is also looking at expanding workforce training programs to meet future industry needs. Garcia's leadership is seen as crucial in navigating these challenges. The board of trustees is considering offering her a three-year contract extension.