Former SBVC and Crafton Hills College student will continue helping guide policy for California’s 116 community colleges

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — San Bernardino Community College District Trustee Joseph R. Williams has been confirmed by the California State Senate to continue serving on the California Community Colleges Board of Governors.

The board helps guide policy for California’s 116 community colleges, which serve about 2.1 million students.

Gov. Gavin Newsom reappointed Williams in March. He has served on the Board of Governors since 2020.

Williams is a former student of both San Bernardino Valley College and Crafton Hills College. He has served on the SBCCD Board of Trustees since 2013.

SBCCD Trustee Joseph R. Williams speaks before the California Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, during his confirmation hearing for the California Community Colleges Board of Governors.

“Joseph knows firsthand the power of our community colleges because he is a product of SBCCD,” said SBCCD Board Chair Dr. Nathan Gonzales. “His path from student to trustee reflects the opportunity our colleges are here to create. We are proud that he will continue bringing that experience to conversations about affordability, workforce training and the learning spaces students need to succeed.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue this work,” Williams said. “My focus will remain on serving students, keeping college affordable, preparing people for good careers and making sure our colleges can meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce.”

Williams, of Rialto, is Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships at Rialto Unified School District. He previously worked at Southern California Edison and the County of San Bernardino, and is the founder of Youth Action Project.

His term runs through 2032.