A Legacy of Service

Manuel Bersamin Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Selfless is what most use to describe Manuel Bersamin, director of TRiO at Hartnell College since 2006. Going to work each day was not a job; it was a calling.

“He was always a visionary,” said TRiO Academic Counselor Norma Nichols. “He supported students in so many ways and provided them with the encouragement they needed to envision themselves in the future.”

Bersamin passed away on October 26, 2025, at the age of 68. It was sudden. The Hartnell community came together to grieve the loss and celebrate his legacy at a Celebración de Vida (celebration of life) in November at the Student Center.

Students, alumni, faculty, staff, friends, and family gathered to pay tribute to a man who gave it all and more for students.  There was dance, song, and audience sentiments. The sound of drums reminded the audience of Manuel’s heartbeat. The Aztec dancing was part of his heritage – Mexican and Filipino. The food embodied his daily giving to students so they would not go hungry, and so they could focus on their studies.

“We are here to celebrate the selfless person that Manuel was,” said Carla Johnson, dean at Gavilan College, who previously worked at Hartnell. “He used his own earnings to purchase food and snacks for students – he would never let anyone go hungry.”

Johnson added that the students were his kids, and his staff was his family.

He was a true example of perseverance, hard work, and achievements in higher education. He attended Cabrillo College, UC Irvine, San Jose State University, Stanford for his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration, and was a PhD Candidate at the University of Arizona.

Bersamin dove into politics as a City Councilmember and later Mayor of Watsonville. Last year, he joined the Cabrillo College Board of Trustees.

He was all about family. He loved his parents, Max and Victoria, and grew up with four sisters. He is survived by three of his sisters. 

For Manuel, God was always at the center of everything. He was known to pray for students and for his staff.

“Manuel taught us to serve students, to meet with parents, and to reach out to first-generation students,” said Nichols. “We will carry on his legacy of service and continue to make an impact in the community just the way he taught us.”

In recognition of the person that Manuel Bersamin was and the legacy he leaves behind, the Hartnell College Foundation has established the Manuel Bersamin Scholarship Endowment. The Foundation will match donations made to the endowment, up to $10,000.

To give to this fund, go to:

https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/donor-form?svcid=renxt&formId=6fcec7c5-0840-466d-aa72-84c2a27c7a9b&envid=p-nkvMpVHgIU6C9TilADrTGQ&zone=usa

Celebrating Our Automotive Graduates

2025 Don Crawford Memorial Scholarship Toolbox Luncheon

On December 3, 2025, Hartnell College hosted the Advanced Automotive Technology Graduate Toolbox Luncheon to honor the accomplishments of graduates from the 2023-2025 cohorts. 

Thanks to the continued generosity of the Don Crawford Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Hartnell College Foundation, a total of 23 students received their own professional-grade toolboxes this year: 5 graduates from 2023, 14 from 2024, and 4 from 2025.

Sue Antle, Don Crawford’s daughter, established the fund in honor of her father’s humble spirit and lifelong passion to improve machinery and repair vehicles. Don’s grandson Mike Antle, granddaughter Karen Hebl, and great-granddaughter Jessica Hebl attended the event. 

Don Crawford was a self-made innovator who, amongst other things, invented a carrot harvester. Don dedicated much of his career to machinery, and this scholarship honors that type of hands-on work. Students entering the automotive technology workforce with a toolbox are more likely to be hired, and this scholarship gives them a head start in their chosen technical career.

“This Scholarship equips students with high-quality tools to begin their careers or apprenticeships fully prepared, allowing them to focus on developing their craft and stepping into the workforce with readiness and professionalism,” said Guy Hanna, Hartnell College Dean of Agriculture, Business, and Industry.

In photos, we see scholarship recipients with their families, the Antle Family (Mike Antle, Karen Hebl, Jessica Hebl), and Jackie Cruz, Hartnell College Vice President of Advancement and Development and Executive Director of the Hartnell College Foundation.       

Our very best,

Key Positions Filled at Hartnell College

New leadership brings in new energy

As life has it, people come and go. It could be a retirement, a promotion, or new open opportunities filled. This year, three key positions bring a new kind of energy to Hartnell College; these new leadership roles bring opportunities to students and to the community at large. This is a medium we are using to introduce you to three of them in academics, athletics, and the arts.

Sandra Guzman – Student Affairs

Although from Sacramento, Salinas has always held a special place in her heart. Sandra Guzman, Vice President of Student Affairs, recalls hearing from her uncle and godfather about working in the lechuga (lettuce) fields of Salinas. As a young girl, she did not realize till later in life that his sacrifice and that of many others meant working in the fields weeks at a time and sleeping in their cars. That stuck with her, and she knew that it was her goal in life to break the cycle of poverty in her family through higher education.

Guzman is a first-generation college student and the first on both sides of her family to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s. She understands students trying to advance through an education firsthand. She was an Equal Opportunity Program (EOP) student in college and advanced to earn a double degree in Psychology and Spanish from Chico State University and a Master’s in Psychology from San Francisco University.  

She worked as a social worker and child and family therapist for over ten years. Then she ventured into community colleges in Sacramento for 14 years as a counselor and later at American River College as dean.

“It is such an honor to serve this community as vice president,” she said. “I am grateful to give back to this community in such a special way.”

Sandra is excited to work at Hartnell College. She is an empty nester and feels her calling is in creating a strong team that will help students in an intentional way. She wants to create opportunities for students but also for the non-traditional students like those in adult education.

“Without an education, I would never be in this position,” she said. “Education is an equalizer, and I cannot wait to see what my team and I can do here at Hartnell to mold its future.”

Ivan Guerrero – Athletics

Just four months ago, Ivan Guerrero was named Interim Dean of Academic Affairs, Athletics, Physical Education & Health – a position held by beloved Dan Teresa. For Guerrero, working at Hartnell College is like being with family.

“The students, coaches, and colleagues have created a good culture that doesn’t make this feel like work,” he said. “Through the power of education, we can transform lives.”

Guerrero has a long history with Hartnell. He is not only an alum, but he was part of the Men’s Soccer Team 2002-2004. After graduating from CSU Northridge with his B.S. in Business Administration, and Southern New Hampshire University with a Master of Science, Sport Management with Certificate in Athletic Administration, he returned to his hometown of Salinas. Since 2011, he has been part of Hartnell Athletics as a head coach for the Women’s Soccer Team, bringing them to the State Championship in 2021. In 2016, he became a full-time faculty member.

He wants to expand what is already being done and continue to develop in athletics and student success. Ivan wants to inspire others. He came to the USA when he was five years old and it was through education that he could advance and be in the position that he is in now.

He is married to his wife, Veronica. They are proud parents of Alexander and Max. He enjoys time with his parents, brother, and two sisters. He promotes health, sports, and family in all he does.

“I want to continue upholding the mission and vision of Hartnell College by providing students with the best resources we can provide.”

Marshall Sharpe – Gallery and the Arts

Originally from Greensboro, North Carolina, Marshall Sharpe taught 7^th and 8^th grades for seven years in Hawaii. Academia has always been a passion of his, and his pursuit brought him to Bakersfield, California, as an Associate Professor of Art at Bakersfield College, later also running their Art Gallery. 

This experience led to his new role as Gallery Director and Assistant Professor of Art at Hartnell College. The unique model of running the gallery and teaching felt like the perfect fit for him. He and his partner of four years made the move to Monterey and now call the Central Coast home. He has big plans for teaching and for the gallery.

“I hope the community sees the gallery as a space for them; they are not only welcome to come to our openings, but also to exhibit their own work in our space,” he said.

Sharpe earned his B.A. from Elon University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Chaminade University of Honolulu, and a Master of Fine Arts from UC Santa Barbara.

With this new role, Sharpe has big plans to spread the love and appreciation for art widely. He plans on producing art shows, student art shows, and a community art show.

“I want the community to see the gallery as a space for them, where they can stop by any time,” he said. “For the art classes, my goal is for them to be more than electives; they are crucial in the education of arts skills.”

In his free time, he lives and breathes art. He enjoys exploring art galleries throughout the county, loves to paint, hike, surf, and be in the outdoors in general.

To contact Marshall email Dsharpe@hartnell.edu or https://www.marshallsharpe.com/.

National Philanthropy Day

Recognizing the best in Giving

On November 14, 2025, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Monterey Bay Chapter presented its 33^rd Annual National Philanthropy Day for the Central Coast Awards Luncheon.

Five awards were presented to local organizations, businesses, and individuals who exemplify the meaning of philanthropy, along with 46 distinguished honorees, which included Salinas Councilmember Margaret D’Arrigo, who has been a consistent donor to the Hartnell College Foundation for many years.

It was an exciting event with Hartnell College Foundation receiving Philanthropic Foundation of the Year; Nancy Ausonio received Philanthropist of the Year; Noland, Hamerly, Etienne & Hoss received Philanthropic Corporation of the Year; Hartnell student, Emily Molina is Philanthropic Young Adult of the Year; and high schooler Izzy Toole was awarded Philanthropic Youth of the Year.

Congratulations to all the honorees and awardees in 2025!

Our very best,

Margaret D’Arrigo

Consistency and loyalty to our mission

Hartnell College has always been an important part of Margaret D’Arrigo’s life. Since her early years, she recalls playing tennis with her dad on its courts, having season tickets to The Western Stage, and taking classes there.

“Hartnell was there in my backyard and I had an affinity for the college,” she said.

About 22 years ago, she recalls learning about the lack of Ag programs at Hartnell and became involved with the Ag Steering Committee as one of the founding members. It was her goal to get others on board and find out the needs of the Ag industry to build programs that would benefit students and employers.

That’s when her giving began. She became a loyal volunteer, mentor, and donor. In 2004, Margaret started a scholarship program in memory of her daughter, Alexis Claire, who had passed at just a few months old the previous year. Keeping her memory alive was just one way for her to cope with the loss and help others at the same time.

“It is my goal to support those who need that extra push to get through their education, especially Latinos and Latinas who don’t always have that support at home,” she said. “I am passionate about educating here and keeping talent here.”

D’Arrigo has been a consistent donor and supporter of the Hartnell College Foundation for many years. One of her favorite programs to support is the Women’s Education & Leadership Institute (WELI). “Women’s empowerment is at the top of my list,” she said.

That love of giving was instilled in her by her parents. Margaret and her five siblings were adopted by Andrew and Phyllis D’Arrigo. She was the last to join the family. She graduated from Salinas High School, earned a bachelor’s in agricultural & managerial economics from UC Davis, and a master’s in business administration from CSU Monterey Bay.

She has held various positions in business, but what she is most proud of is her time as a board member for the Hartnell College Foundation, Trustee for Hartnell College, and Trustee for Salinas Valley Health. Currently, Margaret holds a seat as a Councilmember for the City of Salinas.

“I feel Hartnell and SVH prepared me for this role,” she said. “There is more work, time, and responsibility involved.”

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, meeting with friends, walking, and going to the gym. But her most precious moments are those with her twins, Alex and Sterling, who are now 20. Each year they plan a big trip for the three of them.

Without question, Margaret cares about the community and her goal is to empower youth. She is on the board for Harmony At Home and Girls Inc., where she continues to advocate for “the future leaders of our community.” 

We are thrilled to honor Margaret as the Hartnell College Foundation Distinguished Honoree at National Philanthropy Day for the Central Coast this year.

National Philanthropy Day

Celebrating our own

National Philanthropy Day for the Central Coast is on November 14, 2025, at The Inn at Spanish Bay. The Harnell College Foundation will be honored with the award for Outstanding Philanthropic Foundation of the Year. 

The Foundation is proud to also announce that Hartnell student Emily Molina, 21, has been selected as the Outstanding Philanthropic Young Adult of the Year. She was nominated for her leadership and stewardship of a fundraising project. The Monterey YWCA was looking for support to fundraise for the Women’s Domestic Violence wing. They reached out to the Psychology Club at Hartnell and Emily took the lead. The Club sold succulents to raise funds for the YWCA. 

“It was a team effort,” she said. “Under the leadership of faculty member Dr. Yoshiko Matsushita-Arao, we became the big donor for this project.”

Molina graduated from Rancho San Juan High School in 2022. She is now at Hartnell as a psychology major and plans to transfer to Sacramento State University next year.

“I want to become a clinical psychologist and work with adults, especially Latinos,” she said. “There are a lot of misdiagnoses out there, and my goal is to fix that and also take away that stigma surrounding counseling.”

She shared the struggles of generational depression in her own family. “No one could talk about it, and it was my mom who broke that cycle,” she said. “My grandparents now understand too, and grandma is going to therapy to tackle some of the trauma she experienced in her early years.”

Her goal is to return to Salinas and be involved in the community. Besides having her own practice, she plans to come back to Hartnell to teach.

“Hartnell has given me so much!” she said. “I’ve had resources, scholarships, academic support and so much more – I am grateful.”

The Foundation was proud to nominate Noland, Hamerly, Etienne & Hoss (NHEH) for Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation at this year’s Philanthropy Day. The firm is well-known for community service contributions, supporting a wide array of local charitable, cultural, and educational organizations with Board service, participation in fundraising activities, hands-on volunteer work, and financial contributions. Congratulations to NHEH for being selected for this recognition.

Philanthropy Day promises to be an inspiring event honoring the good work and generosity of so many people in or community. We congratulate everyone who will be recognized at the event.

Our very best,

SEEDS FOR THE FUTURE

A fellowship to foster leaders in nursing

As a young man who was moved from the Philippines to the United States at 12 years of age, Max Sebolino, 40, thought that joining the Navy would be a great way to support this country. But when a job led him to work with and care for the elderly, he found his true passion: nursing.

He attended Hartnell College in 2006 and that’s where he was taught by Mary Cousineau and Dr. Debra Kaczmar. He later came back to teach as he completed his bachelor’s degree at Chamberlain University.

“I told Dr. Kaczmar ‘teaching is what I want to do,’” said Max. 

This was exactly what Mary and Pierre Cousineau wanted to hear from some of the nursing students. In an effort to create a teaching pathway, they founded the Dr. Debra Kaczmar Endowed Nursing Fellowship. This is an opportunity for a Hartnell nursing alum to attend grad school and come back to Hartnell to teach in the nursing program for at least two years.

Max is the first recipient of this endowed fellowship. “I am deeply honored to have been awarded the Dr. Debra Kaczmar Endowed Nursing Fellowship,” said Max. “It represents more than financial support; it reflects the trust and belief Mary and Pierre Cousineau, Debra Kaczmar, and the rest of the board have in my potential, and I am truly grateful for that confidence – the fellowship will play a significant role in helping me pursue my goals and continue growing as a nursing professional.”

The presentation of the fellowship was in September (picture). Max is attending Walden University and expects to complete his Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health – Nursing Practitioner Program in 2027. He is currently a part-time clinical instructor at Hartnell in charge of the mental health rotation at Natividad Hospital. 

“When working at Hartnell, I embraced the culture of my students and became aware of their struggles to manage school, family life, work, and other responsibilities,” said Mary. “I quickly understood that we as instructors can serve as role models and mentors.” 

She also saw first-hand the difficulty of recruiting and retaining qualified nursing faculty. Mary and Pierre decided to fund an endowment that would support local students to obtain higher degrees in nursing and return to Hartnell College as faculty members. The impact of this program on the fellowship recipients, their future students, the healthcare industry, and the community cannot be overstated. It is a “grow your own” nursing faculty program that will have far-reaching positive outcomes.

Mary and Pierre Cousineau originally came to Monterey County when Pierre was serving in the military. They decided to stay, make this their home, and raise their children here. Mary worked as a nurse for many years before being hired as Assistant Director of the Nursing Program at Hartnell College. Mary has been fully retired since May 2025. Pierre shares Mary’s passion for nursing and student success.

Mary and Pierre are naming this endowment in honor of Dr. Debra Kaczmar, Director of the Nursing Program at Hartnell College, out of deep respect for Dr. Kaczmar’s contributions to the Hartnell College Nursing Program, in recognition of their shared passion for excellence in nursing, and in appreciation for Deb’s and Mary’s years together as colleagues. 

Max is appreciative of this opportunity to serve in a deeper way. He shares his excitement with his wife Annie and their three children.

“I look forward to continuing to give back to Hartnell College, where I began my nursing career, and to serving my community with the knowledge, skills, and compassion that this fellowship helps me strengthen,” said Max. “I am sincerely thankful for this support, and I am committed to honoring it through my work, my growth, and my contributions to others.”

THE ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME 2025

A Legacy of Success

Saturday, October 25, 2025

• Hartnell College has a rich athletic tradition and a long history of success that spans over the past 90 years.
• Hartnell has produced well over 15,000 student-athletes who have not only achieved success in the athletic arena but also in the classroom and in life.
• In the 2024-25 academic year, 85% of Hartnell sophomore student-athletes transferred to a four-year university, and 94% of all student-athletes came from high schools in the Salinas Valley.
• 45% of sophomore student-athletes received transfer scholarships and 202 student-athletes were on the college Honor Roll during the 2024-25 academic year.

Julie Holaday Given – 831-594-8347

Ron Critchfield –  831-596-1106

Our very best,

Jesús Ruvalcaba

Distinguished Alumnus in the Arts

Hartnell College is proud to honor Jesús Ruvalcaba as this year’s Distinguished Alumnus in the Arts. “I feel honored to be recognized at the Gala for the Arts, especially as an alumnus of Hartnell College,” he said. “This recognition is very meaningful to me because it shows that you really can make a career in the arts, not only as a passion, but also as a successful business.”

Growing up in Castroville, Ruvalcaba saw his parents work hard in the fields. No one in his family had a college education, and for him and his three sisters, it was a foreign concept. But he was curious and artistically endowed from an early age. All he could think about was drawing day in and day out, and thus, schoolwork was often forgotten. But it was his art that would later lead him to get national attention.

“When I was a senior at North Monterey High School, my peers were applying to universities and I felt an itch to also apply, but I knew I was not the traditional student and my grades were just not there,” Ruvalcaba said.

It was his counselor who recommended that he attend Hartnell College. His journey towards expression through the arts began in graphic design, cartoon animation, and drawing. “One of the classes I took was Introduction to Computers – it was something new and exciting for me,” he said. “I was amazed at what you could do with Photoshop and other applications.”

For him, as for many others, Professor Jerri Namiro was of great inspiration and motivation. “I give a lot of credit to her for caring so much for me,” he said. “She really wanted us to succeed.” Namiro encouraged Jesús to complete his AA in Multimedia and to transfer to CSU Monterey Bay for his B.S. in Communication Design. With this found courage, desire to continue on, and the dream to one day teach at the university level, he earned a master’s degree in Art Direction from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

During a visit to the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose with his wife, he came across a vendor selling posters with popular Mexican sayings. “Jokingly, I said ‘those would make great greeting cards!’” That was the start of an idea that turned out to be Paper Tacos – greeting cards with sayings like ‘Sapo verde tu you,’ a playful way to say ‘Happy birthday to you.’ He then knew that fun and funny, culturally relevant Spanglish greeting cards could be a hit.

He worked in Silicon Valley and locally with big companies like Discount School Supply, eBay, and Hewlett Packard, eventually rising to Art Director. But working full-time and managing a new business was difficult. In 2023, Jesús and his wife, Rocio, decided to give Paper Tacos their full attention.

That decision paid off. The popular show Shark Tank invited Jesús to pitch his product to gain support from one of the investors (sharks). It was Mark Cuban who signed up to help Paper Tacos get to the next level.

“I hope my journey can serve as a testament to the possibilities with the arts, and maybe inspire other students as well,” Jesús said.

Paper Tacos is based in Oldtown Salinas. Jesús runs the business alongside his family and collaborates with Latin American illustrators to grow the product line—all while staying true to his creative roots and cultural identity.

You can find Paper Tacos at Gifts on the Go, Vallarta Super Markets, and online at https://papertacos.com, as well as at other supermarkets in California. Jesús is working with new designers to expand into other markets and cultures, and to go national.

Jesús will be recognized at the Hartnell College Foundation Gala for the Arts on September 13, 2025. More information about the event can be found here.

K-12 STEAM Program

Invention Convention Innovators Award

The Hartnell College Foundation K-12 STEAM Program received a very special recognition from the Salinas City Elementary School District. At a school board meeting, the district Director of Extended Learning, Chloe Johnson, presented the team with the Invention Convention Innovators Award. This summer, Johnson said, “Experiences like the California Invention Convention help shift students’ outlook on the future from limited options to infinite possibilities. We’re especially proud that 15 of our students advanced from our local Invention Convention to the Northern California State Competition in Sacramento where five of them earned awards for their innovative ideas.”

Director of K-12 STEAM Program, Ana Ibarra-Castro, is proud of her team, which includes program coordinators Lupita Arroyo and Andrea Sanchez. Ibarra-Castro said, “It is a true honor to serve the students of the Salinas City Elementary School District. Leaders such as Chloe Johnson, Superintendent Dr. Rebeca Andrade, and the many dedicated administrators and educators are paving the way for a thriving student population—one that will ultimately strengthen and uplift our entire community. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the district’s vision and to be part of this important work.”

Congratulations, K-12 STEAM Program!

President’s Report

July 2025

Superintendent/President Michael Gutierrez has launched a monthly President’s Report. In this issue:

• One Main Street – a new venture
• Hartnell College students performed original play at the prestigious Borderlight Theatre Festival in Cleaveland
• Meet the new Vice President of Student Affairs, Sandra Guzman
• NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy, a success at the K-12 STEAM Program
• Hartnell College receives national recognition in the 2025 Carnegie classifications

To read these stories, click HERE.

Our very best,

ONE MAIN STREET

Advancing a Shared Vision

In a press conference on July 9, 2925, the Hartnell College Foundation and the National Steinbeck Center announced they have formally assumed ownership of the CSUMB Salinas City Center from Cal State Monterey Bay (CSUMB). The building will be renamed One Main Street. This marks a significant step in strengthening downtown Salinas through expanded educational access and regional partnerships.

The CSUMB Salinas City Center, home to the National Steinbeck Center, has served as a central hub for learning, cultural programs, and community engagement since 1998. Under the Hartnell College Foundation’s leadership, One Main Street will continue to support expanded programming, provide community and industry event space and create opportunities for nonprofit collaborations and social innovations, all while remaining an anchor for downtown Salinas.

“The Hartnell College Foundation, CSUMB, and the National Steinbeck Center have worked together for over two decades to serve the Salinas Valley,” said Dr. Jackie Cruz, vice president of institutional advancement and executive director of the Hartnell College Foundation. “With this transition, we’re building on that foundation to meet the evolving needs of nonprofit organizations, students, professionals, regional economic drivers, and community members through expanded workforce development, continuing education, entrepreneurship, and short-form learning that aligns with local economic needs.”

The National Steinbeck Center will continue to operate within the building, preserving its role as one of the nation’s foremost literary museums dedicated to the life and legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck. The National Steinbeck Center will continue to serve its members and expand its youth programming at One Main Street.

“We are thrilled to embark on a new chapter for our community and the Steinbeck fans from around the world who come to Salinas to visit the National Steinbeck Center,” said Steve Emerson, president of the National Steinbeck Center. “Our collaboration creates the opportunity to revitalize the National Steinbeck Center with enhanced bookstore and museum experiences, expanded programming for all ages.”

Several key initiatives will also be headquartered at One Main Street, including:

Hartnell’s K-12 STEM Programs, engaging nearly 10,000 youth annually in robotics, coding, and science learning.

Bright Futures Monterey County, the county’s cradle-to-career partnership.

El Pájaro Community Development Corporation – kitchen incubator and entrepreneurship support for local food-based small businesses.

Monterey County Office of Education- temporary relocation of meal service operations, ensuring continuity of warm meals for thousands of students.

Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce – expanded business support and reignition of community events impacted by the pandemic.

“We have big dreams for One Main Street,” added Cruz. “In the long term, we envision creating a community biotech lab, a space for local talent to innovate with tools and technologies usually only found in larger cities. We’re planting the seeds for regional economic vitality.”

“This transfer strengthens our ability to support economic development efforts in downtown Salinas and to offer more accessible education and training to the current workforce,” said Michael Gutierrez, superintendent/president of Hartnell College. 

CSUMB President Dr. Vanya Quiñones affirmed the university’s support for the transition and added, “This move reflects our strong partnership and shared commitment to serve the region.”

The building purchase was made possible through the generous philanthropic support of Taylor Farms, Harden Foundation, D’Arrigo Charitable Trust, and the Hartnell College Foundation Board.

“At Taylor Farms, we believe in investing in the future of our community through education, innovation, and collaboration,” said Bruce Taylor, Chairman and CEO of Taylor Fresh Foods.

NASA MAA SUMMER

Record Number of High Schoolers See Future in STEAM

Hartnell College Foundation K-12 STEAM program celebrates the culmination of another successful NASA MAA (Murep Aerospace Academy) summer program.

This summer, the program started with more than 170 high school students who aimed to participate in the program over the course of six sessions held each week on Fridays, of interactive lessons and hands-on activities focused on acoustic damping in aerospace engineering. Students met at the Hartnell Alisal Campus daily with one cohort of 14 youth in King City.

“It has been my absolute pleasure to be part of this initiative over the past three years—a collaboration that truly reflects the shared mission of the Hartnell College Foundation, Hartnell College, and NASA,” said Ana Ibarra, director of K-12 STEAM program at Hartnell College Foundation. “Engaging students through meaningful projects and field trips has been a deeply rewarding experience.” 

Over the course of three years, students have engaged in topics of hydrology, lunar rovers, and acoustic damping. They went on field trips to Elkhorn Slough, Monterey One Water, Farm NG, Joby Aviation, and the WeatherTech Raceway at Laguna Seca.

Hartnell College was one of only nine academic institutions selected to receive the NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy grant, and one of just two community colleges chosen nationwide. Thanks to the NASA award and the support of Chevron, Hartnell College has played a pivotal role in expanding youth exposure to careers in STEM. This grant has funded the summer program for high school students since 2023. However, Hartnell’s partnership with NASA dates back to 2011, when it first received a NASA MAA award aimed at engaging 300 elementary students in aerospace careers. Over the years, this initiative has grown to impact thousands of students.

PROVEN IMPACT TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION

This year, two student Lead Technicians participated in the coordination of NASA MAA, Michael Oliver and Celeste Romero.

“If it wasn’t for programs like this, I would not be where I am today,” said Michael Oliver, 18, UC Berkeley. “As a lead now, I can show other students what NASA MAA is and where it can take them.”

“I love it and it’s fun,” said Romero, 20, University of Phoenix. “At first it can be intimidating but once you start playing with things you start to learn how everything works – that’s how it happened with me.”

In the next five years, NASA anticipates needing one million workers to fulfill different projects and missions. With NASA MAA, the goal is to discover in youth talents they did not know existed in them and with or without a college degree, provide opportunities for hands-on control over the future.

Join us at the 2025 Gala for the Arts!

The 2025 Gala for the Arts will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Hartnell College. You are invited to enjoy a joyful evening of delicious food and drinks, a silent auction, an uplifting program, and the toe-tapping Bluegrass music of Hilltown. 

And the honorees are:

After the event, guests are invited to attend Bright Star, a heartwarming musical by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, set in the Blue Ridge Mountains between the 1920s and 1940s. You are also invited to join the festivities early 4:00 – 4:30 PM for a sneak peak of the newly renovated Hartnell Art Gallery.

Interested in being a sponsor? Learn more here or contact Celeste DeWald at cdewald@hartnellcollegefoundation.org or (831) 755-6810.

Our very best,

ALUMNA ON THE MOVE

BRENDA SHOWS MEANING OF GRIT

It was two years ago that Brenda Ace Arreola, 32, began her journey at Hartnell College as a psychology major. Not many knew it then, but she had just given birth to her daughter, and her family of four was homeless.

“I am so thankful to everyone here at Hartnell College for so many resources I had access to while I navigated the personal challenges with being back in school,” Brenda said. “I was really nervous at first, but then I felt a sense of comfort.”

It was her calm and jovial personality that allowed her to navigate her academics. She enjoyed the classes, although most of them online, but had to worry about where her family would sleep daily. Services in the county helped temporarily.  

Brenda has two younger brothers who look up to her. Her parents divorced when she was 16, but they have always been supportive and encouraging of higher education. She married Mario 11 years ago and had their first son, Andre. Her daughter Nichole is two and was recently diagnosed with autism.

She received her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) education and worked at Eden Valley in Soledad for a little while, but she felt called to go back to school. She received her Health Information and Patient Service Certification from a trade college. She landed a job at a surgeon’s office and found it interesting to work with patients and to inform them about the services they were about to experience. She showed care and kindness.

“I learned I like the psychological aspect of nursing – I have seen both sides,” she said. “My daughter’s condition has motivated me even more because what I am learning in the classroom, I am able to use to help her now – I want to do the same for others too.”

During her two years at Hartnell, she has been homeless. Along with her husband, son, and daughter, they have gone from hotels, to car, to shelters, to friends’ couches. All this, while navigating college.

Her struggles exemplify the challenges with affordable housing in the area. Although her husband is working, they have not been able to secure a new rental.

It was the Hartnell College Foundation, EOPS, Office of Basic Needs, and a part-time job in Human Resources that kept her family fed and sheltered. She was a scholar for WELI (Women Empowerment Leadership Institute) and received multiple scholarships, plus support with books, food, and transportation.

She had a goal to finish her associates and transfer to the university, and with her support system at home and at Hartnell, she was able to accomplish that.

In May, Brenda graduated from Hartnell College with an associate’s degree in psychology. She is transferring to CSU Monterey Bay to continue with her studies. She is hoping to get student family housing there.

“The scholarships saved me,” she said. “I want to thank the Foundation for thinking about all of us students – you have no idea of the impact you have on students, and for that I am forever grateful.”

ASPEN RISING PRESIDENTS FELLOWS

Congratulations Dr. Cruz and Dr. Pitman!

The Hartnell College Foundation is proud to announce that Dr. Jackie Cruz, Vice President of Advancement at Hartnell College and Executive Director of the Hartnell College Foundation, and Dr. Gayle Pitman, Vice President of Research, Effectiveness, and Success at Hartnell have been selected to be two of 40 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellows this year.

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to be selected as an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow, joining 39 remarkable leaders from community colleges across the country,” said Dr. Cruz. “This prestigious program is not just an opportunity for leadership growth — it’s a collective commitment to driving reforms that improve student completion, degree attainment, and postsecondary success for the communities we serve.”

This national fellowship brings together leaders from community colleges who are committed to advancing student success and equity across the country.

“This fellowship offers a unique space to reflect on what it means to lead a college through innovation and change, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow alongside a national network of leaders and changemakers,” said Dr. Pitman. “I look forward to strengthening the leadership skills needed to create meaningful, lasting impact, and to advance social and economic mobility for our students and community.”

Dr. Pitman and Dr. Cruz are proud to represent Hartnell College, an institution that holds itself accountable to the students and the community through innovation, access, momentum, and post-graduation success. 

Remembering Jerri Nemiro

April 27, 1954 – June 7, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our former colleague, Jerri Louise Nemiro who served as an art instructor at Hartnell College from 1986 to 2017. Over her 31-year tenure, she helped shape the college’s art education and was a key contributor to the development of the digital arts program, where she taught for several years before retiring. Many will remember Jerri for her creative talents, kind spirit, and deep love for the arts, her students, colleagues, and the community.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Jerri’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time.

Our very best,

Alumna Spotlight

Alondra found hope at Hartnell

“I loved being at Hartnell – I am going to miss it here,” said an enthusiastic Alondra Pena Gomez, 20. She just graduated from Hartnell College in May with an AA in Criminal Justice.

Alondra is continuing her educational path at Sonoma State University this fall. Her goal is to continue her education and become a lawyer and advocate for the less fortunate.

But her path to this moment has not been easy. At an early age, her parents divorced, and she ended up moving from Salinas to Chicago with her mom. For a while, she moved to Mexico, and then she realized she needed to be with her dad.

“Salinas felt like home,” she said. “Plus, my dad was there, and he had become my number one support system – he always encouraged me, and I needed to be with him.”

Alondra graduated from Salinas High and registered at Hartnell. At home, her dad did his best, but work was not consistent. She found resources offered to students at the Hartnell College Foundation.

“The Foundation has supported me with everything!” She said. “I learned they were there to help me, and I also learned not to be embarrassed to accept the help.”

That included rent support, gift cards to buy basic necessities, food from the pantry, scholarships, and more.

During her time at Hartnell she worked at the DSPS office, the office of Basic Needs, plus she was a WELI Scholar, and a Salinas Valley Promise Scholar.

“My dad is so proud,” she said. “’Yo sabía que tu podrías lograrlo y solo necesitabas un empujón,’ he said to me.” (I knew you could do it and just needed a little push.)

In the future, Alondra looks forward to traveling, and Italy is in her bucket list. She wants to make sure her dad is taken care of and for him to enjoy his retirement.

“I felt supported at Hartnell and thank all the donors who give of their resources for students like me; like them, I will pay it forward,” she said.

Our Executive Director

Dr. Jackie Cruz receives accolades

At USC’s commencement this year, Hartnell College Foundation Executive Director, Dr. Jackie Cruz, was honored with one of four Dissertations of Distinction. Last year, Dr. Cruz received her EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership with her dissertation titled ‘A gap analysis to find best practices in philanthropy to support California’s Community Colleges and offer potential solutions to close performance gaps.’ 

The purpose of the award is to recognize outstanding, Rossier mission-aligned research relevant to organizational change and leadership. Among several, strong nominations received by the USC EdD Program Office, Dr. Cruz stood out and was selected as one of the best. 

On May 6, 2025, Dr. Jackie Cruz was recognized at Latina Action Day by the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality in Sacramento as a Latina Advocate selected by Speaker Robert Rivas. This honor recognized her work to ensure Latinas reach economic and political parity. She was one of 11 selected in California.

Congratulations to Dr. Cruz for representing the Hartnell College Foundation and its community well and for always advocating for students.

Our very best,

OUR AMAZING FACULTY

Yoshiko Matsushita-Arao in her element

It was in 1997 that Dr. Yoshiko Matsushita-Arao was hired as a psychology professor at Hartnell College. She was not sure if this was a good idea because she did not have any experience in her field. But one year after teaching, she knew for sure. (pictured with NBA Hall of Famer, Kareem Abdul Jabbar)

“I just knew this was my dream job, this is what I am meant to do,” she said. “I am so grateful they took a chance on me – I really love what I do.”

That love for teaching is apparent. Dr. Matsushita-Arao takes pride in the high-level quality education she provides her students each semester. She shows it in the curriculum she selects, guest speakers she brings, and in being an advisor for the Psychology Club on campus.

For many years, Yoshiko welcomed Al and Jane Nakatani from Hawaii as guest speakers on children, loss, and living life to the fullest. They based their talks on the book Honor Thy Children, which is based on their life and was well suited for the students of psychology and offered widely to the campus community. These talks showed all how a couple who lost three sons within eight years can be hopeful and resilient.

Besides being a great faculty and resource to her students, Yoshiko is a valued donor for the Hartnell College Foundation and has been a President’s Circle member for over a decade.

“I have the greatest respect and admiration for the Foundation,” she said. “They are so connected to the community, and it shows with the overwhelming support they receive toward student success.”

Dr. Matsushita-Arao was born and raised in Seaside and attended Monterey Peninsula College, transferred to Fresno State University for her bachelor’s, followed by UC Santa Barbara for her master’s and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology.

“I had great experience with amazing professors at MPC and I told myself that is the level I want to teach in the future,” she said.

She comes from a Japanese family with an older brother, Ted, and older sister Yuri. The entire family attended MPC and her siblings continued to the university. But she is the only one who pursued graduate degrees.

During her time at MPC, she was in the Women’s Volleyball team and won the Division II State Championship both years. It was a record for the college. In 2016, she was inducted into the MPC Lobo Hall of Fame for her athletic and educational achievements.

She met her husband James in Junior High. They dated in high school and got married soon after. They have been married for 33 years. They have one son, Bruce, who is currently at Berkeley pursuing two master’s degrees in public policy and public health.

She is proud of her son and hopes that he finds the same passion in his profession as she did in teaching.

“I love what I do,” she said. “At the end of each year, the graduations are one of my favorite things to share with my students because I am celebrating their successes and that is important to me.”

Bright Futures Recognized

CalKIDS

In early April, Bright Futures for Monterey County had the honor of participating in the California Early Wealth Education System (CEWAS) Summit hosted by the State Treasurer’s Office and CalKIDS in Sacramento. 

“We are proud to be recognized with the Visionary Educator Award for the progress Monterey County has made in claiming CalKIDS accounts,” said Director of Bright Futures, Tony Amezcua.

In just 11 months, local CalKids moved from 7 percent to 19.8 percent of eligible accounts claimed, securing over $6.8 million in free college savings for local children. Earlier this year, Bright Futures was identified as one of three hotspot communities in the state, along with Riverside and Fresno, for leading efforts to increase CalKIDS participation. 

Attending the CEWAS Summit was an incredible opportunity to meet others across California working to build early wealth and educational opportunities for families. While this achievement is to be celebrated, over $29 million is available for Monterey County families yet to be claimed. Bright Futures remains committed to reaching every eligible child and making sure these important resources stay in our community.

Our very best,