SWC celebrates empowering futures and expanding potential

On May 30, I celebrated one of the most meaningful milestones of the year as Superintendent/President of Southwestern College: the graduation of our 64th class, with over 2,800 graduates, 4,666 degrees and certificates awarded and spread across two ceremonies. The number of our graduates continues to grow, a testament to our collective commitment to education and excellence.

As I stood in front of a crowded DeVore Stadium, I was overwhelmed with a sense of joy, pride, and dedication. But more than that, I saw faces brimming with accomplishment and hope, ready to take on the world.

For these graduates, earning an associate’s degree is only the beginning. Whether they’re transferring to universities, stepping into new careers, or pursuing lifelong dreams, their futures are limitless. Some of our graduates have already been hired by our brand new, world class, Gaylord Resort and Convention Center.

I am deeply proud of how Southwestern College helps ignite these possibilities, and it’s truly inspiring to hear the stories of persistence, unwavering commitment, and resilience that define what it means to be a Jaguar.

One such inspiring story is that of Ivanna Ruiz. A first-generation student and athlete, Ivanna graduated from both Southwestern College and Olympian High School this May and June before heading off to Yale University in the fall. She’ll major in International Affairs and Political Science with aspirations to work for the United Nations’ Refugee Agency to advocate for immigration rights. Beyond her academic achievements, Ivanna founded United for Migrant Learning, a peer-to-peer literacy program at Logan Heights Library, dedicating over 600 hours to helping others learn to read. Ivanna’s belief that “my community is an extension of my family, and we have an obligation to help one another” embodies the values we hold dear at Southwestern College.

Success is not only measured by the destination but by how one navigates their journey.

This is exemplified by 75-year-old graduate Evangeline Egaran, who proudly crossed the stage to accept her degree. Her achievement serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. She’s joined by one set of twins and 12 sets of siblings, and two sets of mothers and daughters illustrating that the pursuit of education and success is often a family journey.

As we reflect on the remarkable achievements of our graduates, I’m reminded that the path of every individual who walks across the stage represents a story of courage, determination, and boundless potential.

At Southwestern College, we are dedicated to advancing education, creating opportunities for professional growth, and building connections that enrich our whole community. Ivanna took advantage of our multiple campuses, academic and financial aid counseling services and our online modality to make her success a reality. We thrive at finding the combination to help our students succeed.

And our potential continues to expand. Soon, students will have access to our new University Center obtaining bachelor’s degrees right here in Chula Vista. Partnering with prestigious institutions such as San Diego State University, UC San Diego, California State University, San Marcos, Arizona State University, National University and Point Loma Nazarene University, we’re making it possible for students to pursue higher education without leaving the community they call home. And this is just the beginning—more university partnerships are in the works and will be announced this summer.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working adult looking to acquire new career skills, or someone pursuing a passion, Southwestern College is here to support you. Together, we can help empower your future.
To the Class of 2025, we salute you. Congratulations!

Mark Sanchez, Ed.D. is Superintendent/President of Southwestern College.