MSJC Trustees Excited About Passage of Measure AA

The recent passage of a $295 million bond measure to support Mt. San Jacinto College was praised during the November meeting of the college Board of Trustees.

Trustees trustees praised Superintendent and President Roger Schultz, students, faculty, and staff for their efforts in getting Measure AA passed in the recent election.

"We are very excited about the passage of Measure AA. The bond will provide for improved access to career training for students and returning veterans," Bill Zimmerman, incoming Governing Board Trustee, said in a phone interview. "New facilities that are proposed on the campus master plans will directly benefit our students by expanding our ability to provide affordable education opportunities. We will more than double our enrollment following all of the planned improvements."

The facilities bond will upgrade and expand course opportunities to increase enrollment, classrooms, and instructional facilities in core academic areas of study, such as criminal justice, emergency responder, and nursing programs. This will attract businesses looking to relocate because Mt. San Jacinto College could provide a local and trained workforce, Zimmerman said.

"Our main campus in San Jacinto is almost 50 years old and is in need of modernization and infrastructure improvements," said Zimmerman. "Additionally, our San Gorgonio Pass site will see a major expansion and allow for comprehensive course offerings leading to a permanent campus there. District owned land in Wildomar can also move forward with plans for a Technology/STEM campus there. It is a very exciting time for MSJC."

Also at the meeting, the board renewed the contract of Schultz through June of 2017. Serving as the Superintendent/President since 2008, Schultz has worked at the district since 2001.

Board Chair Ann Motte presented flowers to Trustee Gwendolyn Schlange, who decided to step down at the end of her term. Zimmerman will be taking the Oath of Office at the December meeting to serve Schlange's former Trustee Area 3. Motte, who was re-elected to serve Trustee Area 4, will also take the Oath of Office at the December meeting.