I am passionate about community college because I see so many students here who remind me of my own family. My mother bravely fled Cuba to come to the United States at just 16 years old. She was undoubtedly afraid of what the future might hold, but her hopes and dreams propelled her forward despite her fear of the unknown. I see that same fierce determination in the faces of so many of our students, and I am heartened by it.

Like me, many of our students have parents who sacrificed much to ensure their children could have a college education. They are driven by a sense of duty to repay the sacrifices of those who came before them and to chart their own paths as individuals.

As your president, I am inspired to create a challenging and rigorous environment that places student achievement at the heart of what we do. My vision is to ensure that CCD continues its long and storied history of being the catalyst of success for every student who walks through our doors.

Together, we are redefining what community college is and what it can be. I believe two-year institutions will emerge as leaders in higher education for the future – shedding dated stereotypes and radically reshaping our educational landscape for generations to come.

Welcome to CCD.  We’re glad you’re here.

Dr. Marielena "Marie" DeSanctis
President