Note: This column appeared in the Merced County Times on Jan. 1, 2026.
This past year at Merced College was defined by a feeling of momentum that is rooted in innovation, strengthened by community partnership, and ultimately focused on what matters most: student success.
As our region continues to evolve, so too must the role of a community college. Over the last year, Merced College leaned into change in purposeful ways, expanding opportunities for students while strengthening the Central Valley workforce and deepening our connection to the community we serve.
Leading the Future of Ag Tech
Few areas captured national attention this year quite like agriculture tech and innovation. Merced College continued to emerge as a leader in ag innovation, securing major state and federal investments to transform how students prepare for careers in a rapidly changing industry.
From breaking ground on the new AgTEC Innovation Center to playing a central role in the Merced AgTech Alliance — backed by a landmark $9.2 million state investment — our college is helping position the region at the forefront of agricultural technology. These efforts are not theoretical. They translate directly into hands-on contextualized learning, industry-aligned credentials, and real career pathways for students, including farmworkers seeking to upskill and students earning certificates that lead directly to employment in high-wage, high-demand jobs.
Agriculture has always been central to the Valley’s identity. This year showed how innovation can ensure it remains central to the Valley’s future.
Innovation That Expands Access and Opportunity
Innovation at Merced College is not about change for its own sake — it’s about removing barriers and opening doors.
This year brought new academic pathways, including expanded transfer options through partnerships like ASU Online and Cal LAW, and the introduction of a 16-week semester designed to better align with student needs. We also advanced flexible learning models, improved campus facilities, and expanded access to powerful AI tools that help students learn, research, and create in new ways.
Even large-scale projects, like Promise Housing — a joint housing project on the UC Merced campus to serve Merced College students who plan to transfer — are rooted in this same goal: making higher education more accessible and affordable for students who call this region home.
A College Connected to Its Community
Merced College is deeply woven into the fabric of the community, and this year that connection was on full display.
From dual enrollment partnerships that give high school students a head start on college, to cultural performances, youth programs, and community events hosted on our campuses, the college continues to serve as a gathering place and a bridge between education and opportunity. Programs like College for Kids, and resources like the new Child Development Center at our Los Banos Campus, demonstrate how education supports families across generations.
Our talented faculty, staff, and students also show up beyond campus — volunteering, performing, serving, and leading throughout the region.
Student and Alumni Success
At the heart of every initiative is student success. This year, Merced College celebrated record enrollment growth with more than 20,000 students, commencement milestones, and countless individual stories of perseverance and achievement — from first-generation college students to military veterans, student parents, foster youth, and returning adult learners.
Just as inspiring are our alumni. Former Blue Devils are now serving as educators, first responders, public servants, and industry leaders across the Central Valley. Their success is a reminder that when we invest in students, the entire community benefits.
As we look ahead, our “north star” remains simple: innovation in service of students. The past year affirmed what’s possible when a college listens, adapts, and leads with purpose. I’m deeply proud of what our students, employees, and partners accomplished together — and excited for what comes next.
Dr. Chris Vitelli is President and Superintendent of Merced College.