In the early days and weeks of 2025, I spent time reflecting on the many achievements of 2024, big and small, that have
shaped our University. Several of these are featured in this issue of Channel — from the AI Base Camp to the establishment and continuation of community partnerships like the Brain Injury Center of Ventura County, a clinical lab science certificate in collaboration with local hospitals, and the launch of our new Doctor of Educational Leadership in Equity & Justice.
It is also essential to look ahead toward the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. The hard work of the new year, of right-sizing our budget to enrollment, will require continued innovation and collaboration within our University community. We will focus on strengthening our community partnerships to better meet the specific needs of our region, ensuring that our programs are relevant and impactful, but also acknowledge the areas where we can improve and grow. By embracing both our achievements and the lessons learned from our challenges, we can position ourselves for even greater success in the future.
Our network of over 29,000 alumni stands as a testament to our institution’s impact, with our graduates serving in their communities as role models, mentors, and leaders. They are living proof that embracing education and community can lead to a student’s previously unimagined possibilities. We take pride in having alumni leaders across many sectors, including healthcare, biotechnology, education, finance, social services, and more, all contributing to the tapestry and quality of life within and beyond our region.
A highlight of Fall 2024 was our inaugural Homecoming celebration, which served as a week-long opportunity for alumni, students, faculty, staff, and
supporters to come together and celebrate our community. It was a fun and exciting
week honoring our University’s 22-year history and the future ahead that is ours to
build. Together, we have not only celebrated our successes but have also faced challenges
with resilience and determination, further solidifying our commitment to excellence
and inclusion.
We have also welcomed new leaders in key positions who have already done much to help
realize º£½ÇÉçÇøCI’s mission and values. Their collective knowledge, expertise, and dedication
have already proven invaluable to our success and future growth. Among them is Bradley Olin, our new Vice President for Business & Financial Affairs. After feeling an instant connection when he first visited the campus 12 years ago,
he has returned with a commitment to enhancing the student experience and a passion
for fostering community.
We look forward to new opportunities and experiences in 2025, which include building new connections, fostering collaboration, and nurturing the sense of belonging that makes our University such an incredibly special place.
Wishing you all a prosperous New Year.
Warm Regards,
Richard Yao, Ph.D.
President