The Community Colleges of Ventura County Announce Selection of Two New College Presidents
The Californer/10277084

CAMARILLO, Calif. - Californer -- Following a nationwide search and the approval of the VCCCD Board of Trustees, Chancellor Dr. Rick MacLennan is excited to announce the selection of Dr. Roberto Gonzalez for the position of President, Oxnard College and Dr. Claudia Lourido-Habib for President, Ventura College.

With expertise in both student services and academic affairs, Dr. Gonzalez is recognized as an inclusive, equity-minded leader prioritizing the student experience. Chancellor MacLennan remarks, "Dr. Gonzalez is celebrated as a student-focused leader," emphasizing his commitment to meeting diverse student needs. Dr. Gonzalez is also expected to officially begin his role on July 1, 2024.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to have been selected to lead Oxnard College," said Dr. Gonzalez. "I look forward to serving all the members of our community including students, faculty, classified professionals and administrators. I am eager to play a role in enhancing the outstanding academic programs, academic and student services and resources we provide to our students."

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With a commitment to enhancing students' social and economic mobility through higher education, Dr. Lourido-Habib epitomizes the core mission of community colleges, being herself a first-generation community college graduate. Chancellor MacLennan notes, "Dr. Lourido-Habib is highly recognized as a collaborative and visible leader," praising her community engagement and her fierce advocacy for celebrating and supporting all students. She is set to officially assume her role on July 8, 2024.

"I am excited about the opportunity to join the Ventura County Community College District," said Dr. Lourido-Habib. "I am eager to collaborate with the administrative team, faculty, classified professionals and community members to build upon Ventura College's legacy of excellence and to provide transformative educational opportunities to students."

The hiring process for these positions included a thorough national search conducted by ACCT Search Consultants. Candidates were interviewed by diverse screening committees comprised of students, community members, faculty, classified professionals and administrators. The campus community and public were invited to meet the finalists at open forums that were held on each college campus. Following these forums, each finalist was given a tour of the college and then interviewed by the Chancellor.

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On behalf of the Community Colleges of Ventura County, Chancellor MacLennan and the Board of Trustees extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Oscar Cobian for his outstanding dedication and leadership during his tenure as Interim President of Oxnard College. Over the last two years, Dr. Cobian has led Oxnard College with poise and integrity. We are profoundly grateful for Dr. Cobian's service and thank him for his continued leadership.

For more information, visit vcccd.edu (http://www.vcccd.edu).