Picture the student, fresh out of high school with a blank slate of possibilities, unsure of what’s next for them but taking steps toward their future by enrolling in their first college class. Or the mother of two, returning to college with a newfound motivation, taking courses to finish her degree now that her children are in school. Or the retired military member, attending night classes toward a certification that will launch them into their new career, their new chapter.
For 65 years, Southwestern College has been a hub of opportunity for students from all walks of life who are working toward a bright future. Whether they’re taking steps toward a degree or certification, earning an Associates degree, making their way to a four year university, learning a new skill, reaching a personal goal, or pursuing a career change, Southwestern College has played an integral role in getting them there.
This year, Southwestern College celebrates 65 years of Transforming Lives and Communities. It’s a year that signifies so much growth — growth on the physical campus, growth in program offerings, but also growth in mindset, growth in opportunities, and growth in possibilities. It’s also the last year for Superintendent/President Dr. Mark Sanchez before he retires, a bittersweet moment to end his legacy and leadership..
Since opening its doors to just over 1,600 students in 1961 to serving nearly 20,000 students every semester across five locations today, Southwestern College has grown with Chula Vista, transforming alongside the surrounding community. Over the years, Southwestern College has continued to shape opportunities in the South Bay through workforce development, collaboration, and widening the possibilities for generations of students, families, community members, and local partners. Today, students can even pursue a Bachelor’s degree on campus at Southwestern through their University Center, linking programs from four year universities like SDSU, UCSD, and CSU San Marcos, among others.
Looking to the future, Southwestern is grateful for Measure Z funding, approved by the community in 2016, because it allows them to look to the future with optimism. As a result of Chula Vistans believing in the future of higher education in Chula Vista, they will continue to funnel resources into the college — increasing program offerings, enhancing collaborations with universities and other organizational partners, amplifying cross-border collaboration in the Cali-Baja region, improving student safety and experience, doubling down on diversity and opening the doors wide for any and all students looking to build a brighter future.
To celebrate this incredible milestone and all that Southwestern has given to the South Bay, all community members are invited to join the Jaguar Spectacular on Saturday, November 7th from 10am-4pm at the Chula Vista Campus for a day of fun and celebration for all ages.
For Southwestern College, this year is about celebrating 65 years of dreams. 65 years of lives changed through the power of education, and the ripple effect of education on our community in Chula Vista, in San Diego, and across the world. Congrats, Jaguars! The community can’t wait to see what the next 65 years will bring.