It is with great pleasure and complete confidence that I endorse Edel Alonso for reelection into the College of the Canyons board of trustees Area 2 seat. I can attest to her leadership skills, her open and honest communication and, most importantly, her beliefs and values related to student advocacy.
I work as an associate dean of student success at a community college, so I understand the importance of a strong and valued board of trustees member. Their leadership and involvement on campus and in the community is invaluable. During my tenure at COC, I worked as the director of the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) program, where Alonso and I worked side-by-side supporting, encouraging and promoting student success.
Edel worked some of her counseling hours in the MESA Center specifically supporting our science, technology, engineering and math students. Edel’s commitment, passion and heart were undeniable. Edel would help facilitate STEM-specific academic workshops, encouraged students to attend study sessions, and, best of all, motivated our students to achieve their educational goals.
Edel was not just a counselor to our students; she was a friend, mentor and role model. Her knowledge of the curriculum, campus policies and, specifically, STEM education ensured our students were well-prepared to earn their degrees and transfer to their intended four-year institutions. Her dedication to the mission and vision of the college were evident during her tenure as a counselor, and have been even more so now in her role as board of trustees member.
Reelecting Edel ensures the campus community will continue to move in the right direction. As a friend and former colleague, I know COC will remain in good hands with Edel on the board. In the MESA Center, Edel would come to work every day with a smile on her face, dedication to her job and the COC student body, and passion for the campus community. It will be difficult to find another board member who can match Edel’s all-around commitment. Her joyful personality draws in all those who talk to her, and her warmth keeps them coming back. She demonstrates an overwhelmingly positive disposition and a welcoming approach when she interacts with the students, and it’s evident when you watch them engage.
I look forward to following COC’s continued success with Alonso’s presence on the board of trustees.
Eric Lara
Associate Dean, Student Success & Equity
Mt. San Antonio College
La Verne
