The search for the next superintendent-president of College of the Canyons has reached an important milestone, and I want to personally invite the Santa Clarita Valley community to be part of the process.
The Santa Clarita Community College District board of trustees recently identified four finalists to lead the college into its next chapter. The selected candidates are:
• Jeffrey Archibald, vice president of academic affairs at West Los Angeles College.
• Lataria Hall, interim vice chancellor of educational services and institutional effectiveness at West Hills Community College District.
• Marvin Martinez, chancellor of the Rancho Santiago Community College District.
• Jasmine Ruys, interim superintendent/president of College of the Canyons.
Selecting the next superintendent-president is one of the most significant responsibilities entrusted to the board, and community engagement is an essential part of that decision.
On March 23, the district will host public forums where employees, students and community members can hear directly from the candidates. Each finalist will participate in a 50-minute session at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center on the college’s Valencia campus. During these sessions, candidates will share their perspectives and respond to questions submitted in advance. A Zoom option is available for those who cannot attend in person.
This was a comprehensive national search, and we were pleased with the depth and quality of the applicant pool, which reflects the district’s reputation as an innovative leader in higher education. We are grateful to everyone who participated in the search process and helped us identify such strong candidates.
This leadership transition also comes at an exciting time for the college. COC continues to expand opportunities for students through new facilities, workforce programs and partnerships that support the region’s growing economy. New health sciences and career education programs — including pharmacy technology and diagnostic medical sonography — along with the completion of the Advanced Technology Center will help prepare students for in-demand careers while strengthening the SCV workforce.
The next superintendent-president will have the opportunity to build on this momentum and guide the college through its next era of growth and innovation.
Strong leadership is essential to ensuring that COC continues to provide outstanding opportunities for students and remains a vital partner in the educational and economic success of the SCV. I encourage our community to participate in the forums and learn more about the individuals who hope to lead COC into the future.
Additional information about the forums and the finalists is available at canyons.edu/ceo.
Sharlene Johnson
Board President, COC
Santa Clarita
