Santa Monica College Executive and Leadership Team

Diane Chen, the President at Santa Monica College, directs the overarching academic vision and institutional growth strategies. Overseeing the alignment of curriculum with transfer requirements for major universities, the President ensures that educational offerings remain competitive and relevant. Diane Chen manages complex administrative frameworks to support student success across diverse learning modalities. By fostering partnerships with external academic institutions, the President expands transfer opportunities for the student body. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of institutional performance metrics to maintain high standards of excellence. Through the coordination of faculty resources and departmental initiatives, the President drives the mission of providing affordable, high-quality education. Strategic planning under this guidance focuses on optimizing student outcomes and enhancing the reputation of the college within the California higher education landscape. The President remains dedicated to sustaining the long-term viability of academic programs.

Brittany Beall, the President at Santa Monica College, architects the operational framework for student support services and campus engagement. Focusing on the integration of financial aid resources and scholarship programs, the President ensures that economic barriers do not impede student progress. Brittany Beall manages the allocation of institutional funds to maximize the impact of student-facing services. By collaborating with various departments, the President streamlines the delivery of academic counseling and career development tools. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of student demographics to tailor support systems for international and out-of-state learners. Through the implementation of efficient administrative processes, the President enhances the overall student experience. Strategic efforts under this direction prioritize the accessibility of education and the successful completion of degree programs. The President maintains a focus on creating an inclusive environment that fosters academic achievement and personal growth for every student.

Jeffery Shimizu, the President at Santa Monica College, oversees the expansion of online learning infrastructure and digital academic initiatives. Driving the modernization of instructional technology, the President ensures that the college remains at the forefront of remote education delivery. Jeffery Shimizu manages the technical teams responsible for maintaining robust virtual classrooms and digital resources. By aligning digital strategy with the broader mission of the institution, the President facilitates flexible learning options for a global student population. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty to integrate innovative pedagogical tools into the existing curriculum. Through the optimization of digital platforms, the President improves accessibility and engagement for all learners. Strategic initiatives under this guidance focus on scaling online degree programs to meet rising demand. The President secures the technological foundation necessary for the college to continue providing world-class education in an increasingly digital academic environment.

Cornelius Peterson, the President at Santa Monica College, leads the development of vocational training programs and industry-aligned certificate pathways. Focusing on the intersection of education and workforce readiness, the President ensures that students acquire skills relevant to current market demands. Cornelius Peterson manages relationships with industry partners to create internship and employment opportunities for graduates. By overseeing the design of specialized certificate programs, the President bridges the gap between academic theory and professional application. This leadership role involves assessing labor market trends to inform the creation of new degree offerings. Through the promotion of career-focused education, the President enhances the employability of the student body. Strategic planning under this direction emphasizes the value of practical experience in achieving long-term career goals. The President remains committed to building strong connections between the college and the professional sectors that drive the regional economy.

Michael Roberts, the CSEA President at Santa Monica College, represents the interests of classified staff while ensuring operational efficiency across all campus departments. Overseeing the coordination between administrative staff and institutional leadership, the CSEA President fosters a collaborative work environment that supports the college mission. Michael Roberts manages the communication channels between staff members and the executive team to address organizational needs. By advocating for professional development and resource allocation, the CSEA President strengthens the internal capacity of the institution. This leadership role involves participating in policy discussions that impact the daily operations of the college. Through the promotion of staff engagement, the CSEA President contributes to the overall stability and productivity of the campus. Strategic efforts under this guidance focus on maintaining high morale and operational excellence. The CSEA President ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the strategic goals of the college.

Carole Currey, the President at Santa Monica College, directs the community outreach and public relations strategy to enhance the institutional brand. Focusing on building strong ties with local and regional stakeholders, the President ensures that the college remains a central pillar of the community. Carole Currey manages the communication efforts that highlight the success of transfer programs and student achievements. By engaging with community leaders and educational partners, the President expands the influence of the college. This leadership role involves crafting narratives that emphasize the affordability and quality of the educational experience. Through the execution of public awareness campaigns, the President attracts diverse student populations to the campus. Strategic initiatives under this guidance prioritize the visibility of the college in the broader academic market. The President maintains a focus on fostering positive relationships that support the long-term growth and sustainability of the institution.

Ailsa Ortiz, the President at Santa Monica College, oversees the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the campus. Driving the development of policies that support a diverse student body, the President ensures that every learner has access to equitable opportunities. Ailsa Ortiz manages the programs designed to support underrepresented groups and international students. By fostering an inclusive campus culture, the President enhances the overall educational experience for all participants. This leadership role involves collaborating with student organizations and faculty to address systemic barriers to success. Through the promotion of inclusive practices, the President strengthens the community fabric of the college. Strategic efforts under this guidance focus on creating a welcoming environment that celebrates diverse perspectives. The President remains dedicated to ensuring that the college serves as a model for equity in higher education, supporting the success of every student.

Chui Tsang, the Superintendent and President at Santa Monica College, holds ultimate responsibility for the fiscal health and strategic direction of the entire institution. Overseeing the complex budgetary processes and long-term financial planning, the Superintendent and President ensures that resources are allocated to support the core mission of academic excellence. Chui Tsang manages the relationship with the Board of Trustees to align institutional policies with state and national educational standards. By providing executive oversight for all departments, the Superintendent and President maintains the integrity of the college operations. This leadership role involves navigating the regulatory landscape of California higher education to ensure compliance and growth. Through the implementation of high-level strategic initiatives, the Superintendent and President drives the college toward its goal of being the top transfer institution. The Superintendent and President remains focused on securing the future of the college through prudent management and visionary leadership.

Gabriel Hernandez, the Club President at Santa Monica College, leads student-driven initiatives that foster campus community and extracurricular engagement. Focusing on the development of student-led projects, the Club President ensures that learners have opportunities to apply their skills in collaborative settings. Gabriel Hernandez manages the coordination of events and activities that enrich the student experience outside the classroom. By facilitating communication between student groups and the administration, the Club President advocates for the needs of the student body. This leadership role involves organizing programs that promote leadership development and peer-to-peer support. Through the execution of campus-wide events, the Club President enhances the vibrancy of the college environment. Strategic efforts under this guidance focus on increasing student participation and building a sense of belonging. The Club President remains committed to creating a dynamic campus culture that supports the holistic development of every student.

Rebecca Kennerly, the President at Santa Monica College, directs the strategic partnerships with secondary education institutions to facilitate seamless student transitions. Focusing on the pipeline from high school to college, the President ensures that prospective students are well-prepared for the rigors of higher education. Rebecca Kennerly manages the outreach programs that provide early access to college resources and academic guidance. By collaborating with school districts, the President creates pathways that simplify the enrollment process for incoming learners. This leadership role involves analyzing enrollment data to identify opportunities for growth and improved student recruitment. Through the promotion of early college initiatives, the President increases the accessibility of the institution. Strategic planning under this guidance emphasizes the importance of early intervention in achieving long-term educational success. The President remains dedicated to building a robust foundation for students as they embark on their academic journey at the college.