Stories of Be. Belong. Become.
The San Diego Community College District empowers students and employees through inclusive environments where they can Be their authentic selves, Belong to a supportive community, and Become their best through transformational education. Explore these inspiring stories:
A Beautiful Place to be
As a first-generation immigrant and Navy veteran, Yonatan “Yogi” Hernandez found a support system within the SDCCD.
Finding Purpose after service
Yonatan "Yogi" Hernández, a dedicated veteran, reflects on the transformative journey that led him to serve in the military. Born and raised in Mexico City, he migrated to Houston, Texas, at the age of 12, facing the daunting challenge of adapting to a new country and language. "I spoke no English at all when I first arrived," Hernández recalls, highlighting the sheer determination it took to thrive in a foreign environment. "I had to learn quickly, and it was tough, but I wanted more for myself."
Lifelong learning creates culture of belonging
At San Diego College of Continuing Education, learning has no age limit and for students like Filomena Alvarez and Josie Bhe Quiatchon, it’s as much about building community as it is about acquiring new skills. Both women, retired from long careers in public service, are enrolled in Continuing Education’s free automotive career training program, using their military family benefits to fuel a new chapter of learning.
Supporting the Dream
At San Diego College of Continuing Education, students find more than a path to citizenship — they find a community of encouragement and a place to be themselves.
Building belonging through STEM
Personal transformation is at the heart of Beto Vasquez’s work in community outreach.
Rising to Serve
San Diego Miramar College’s new public safety management bachelor's degree empowers students to become leaders in their communities.
Belonging in Action
For 23 years, Albert “Rusty” Krumm dedicated himself to creating spaces of belonging and opportunity for students with disabilities throughout the San Diego Community College District. Before retiring this past spring, he dedicated his career to helping hundreds of students feel seen, preparing them for careers, and advocating for their needs.
Exploring Spaces of Unity
San Diego Mesa College is proving that, when it comes to affinity groups, there really is strength in numbers. That’s the driving force behind the college’s CommUnity Spaces, a collection of inviting, thoughtfully designed areas for student support groups, all created to foster greater engagement and a deeper sense of belonging.
Inspiring Resiliency
As a student parent, Destiny is motivated by her family and a determination to succeed.