As we celebrate Women’s History Month and recognize the countless contributions of women in our society, it’s also a moment for Merced College to express our profound pride in the women leaders who contribute immensely to achieving our mission.
Examples of women in leadership positions can be found throughout our district, and the strength, insight, and dedication they bring to their roles illuminate the essence of empowerment and innovation within our campus community.
As I have experienced myself on my own journey, Merced College has cultivated a culture of mentorship and support that underscores our collective commitment to fostering a space where women can thrive professionally and personally.
Our Board of Trustees is chaired by President Carmen Ramirez, who leads the board with wisdom and a deep connection to our community values, and Trustees Kory Benson and Sue Chappell enrich our board with diverse insights and experiences, setting a strong example of female governance in action. Johnni Cowie represents our student body as the Student Trustee, highlighting the importance of female student voices in our college’s evolution. This level of participation is crucial for shaping a responsive and inclusive educational environment.
Merced College also celebrates the women leading our faculty union, classified professionals union, Academic Senate and Classified Senate. These leaders exemplify strength, dedication, and a commitment to advocacy, further enriching our college’s culture with their leadership and ensuring that the voices of our faculty and staff are heard and valued. Their contributions are essential to our collaborative and inclusive college environment, highlighting the significant role women play in every aspect of campus life.
At every level, from governance to instruction to operations and beyond, women play pivotal roles. One notable example is our agriculture program — which is revolutionizing ag education in our region under the longstanding leadership of faculty members Nikki Maddux and Kim Donaher, who exemplify innovation and dedication.
Merced College is dedicated to supporting all students, and many of the services we provide directly or predominantly support women. Our RSVP program, focusing on sexual violence prevention, offers essential support for survivors alongside advocacy and awareness training. This initiative underscores our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all.
We also offer targeted support for single parents, many of whom are single mothers striving to continue their education. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by adult students, particularly those whose educational pursuits may have been interrupted by familial responsibilities, we provide comprehensive support to ensure their success. Our efforts to support adult learners, returning students, and especially single mothers, emphasize our commitment to being there for our students every step of the way.
Acknowledging the significant role of male allies in this journey, the support from our president, Chris Vitelli, has been invaluable. His leadership not only champions the advancement of women within our college but does so with the understanding that true empowerment comes from within the community itself—a nod to the collaborative spirit that underpins our success.
Women’s contributions are pivotal at every level of our college. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor not just the women in leadership roles but also the supportive community they’ve nurtured. The environment of mentorship and empowerment at Merced College is key to cultivating the next generation of leaders, ensuring a legacy of strong and capable women who inspire us all.
At Merced College, we’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where women’s achievements are recognized and celebrated. As we look to the future, we continue to champion the role of women in every facet of our community, ensuring a more equitable and vibrant tomorrow for everyone.
This article originally appeared in the Merced County Times.