Dear friends and colleagues:

My name is Jose Torres and I’m the Executive Vice Chancellor for the San Bernardino Community College District. I am also honored and humbled to serve as Interim Chancellor while the district conducts a nationwide search for our next leader.

Some of you may know me, but for those who don’t, I’d like to share a little bit about myself and what motivates me to come to work each day.

I was born in Guanajuato, Mexico, the youngest of 11 siblings. My mom never learned how to read or write. My dad’s education never went beyond the 3rd-grade level. Seeking better opportunity, I immigrated to the United States at the age of 15, taking the lessons of my family within me — humility, hard work, and optimism.

But it was the encouragement and support of my teachers, college staff, guidance counselors, and my wife, that allowed me to dream big, seize opportunities, and become the first of my family to attend and graduate from college.

After navigating and graduating from the community college system, I transferred to Cal Poly Pomona where I earned a bachelor’s degree, and subsequently earned a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, San Bernardino.

I share this with you as a reminder that everything you do will impact the lives of students and their families.

What might seem like a simple conversation with a student could be a key piece of advice that helps them find their way. Your encouragement can make the difference in a student deciding to complete their education.

You inspire students to dream bigger.

In my six years with the district, I have seen a lot of positive change. SBCCD has great momentum and has become a top-performing district in terms of student success, community partnerships, fiscal stability, competitive salaries, and greener buildings.

The state of our district is strong, and with your teamwork, innovative spirit, and leadership, we will continue building on this momentum.

I look forward to working with you in the weeks and months ahead to ensure students — regardless of who they are or where they’re from — have the opportunity to achieve their potential.

Sincerely,

Jose F. Torres

Interim Chancellor, San Bernardino Community College District