Santa Monica College Executive and Leadership Team

Curtis Baruth, the Chief Executive Officer at Santa Monica College, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework. Baruth ensures the college's mission of delivering relevant and affordable education is consistently met, aligning all departments with institutional goals. This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance the college's reputation as California's top transfer institution. Curtis Baruth oversees the integration of academic programs with career development services, guaranteeing students receive comprehensive support for their educational and professional journeys. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on expanding access to higher education and maintaining the college's competitive edge in serving diverse student populations, including international and out-of-state learners.

Diane Chen, the President at Santa Monica College, spearheads academic excellence and institutional advancement. Chen guides the development and implementation of educational programs, ensuring they align with the college's mission to provide relevant and affordable learning opportunities. This leadership position involves fostering a collaborative environment that supports faculty, staff, and students in achieving their academic and career aspirations. Diane Chen oversees strategic planning initiatives aimed at enhancing student transfer rates to prestigious universities and expanding certificate offerings. The President's dedication to student success is evident in the continuous efforts to secure financial aid and scholarship opportunities, making higher education accessible to a broad spectrum of learners.

Ailsa Ortiz, the President at Santa Monica College, drives strategic initiatives focused on student success and institutional growth. Ortiz leads efforts to enhance the college's standing as a premier transfer institution, cultivating relationships with universities and industry partners. This executive role involves overseeing the expansion of academic and vocational programs, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the student population and the job market. Ailsa Ortiz champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across campus operations and academic offerings. The President's commitment extends to ensuring robust support systems, including comprehensive financial aid and scholarship programs, are available to all students, thereby reinforcing the college's mission of accessible, world-class education.

Michael Roberts, the CSEA President at Santa Monica College, represents and advocates for the California State Employees Association members within the institution. Roberts focuses on ensuring fair labor practices, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment for classified school employees. This leadership position involves collaborating with college administration to address employee concerns and enhance operational efficiency. Michael Roberts plays a vital role in fostering positive employee relations and promoting the professional growth of CSEA members. The CSEA President's efforts contribute directly to the college's ability to deliver high-quality educational services by supporting the dedicated staff who are integral to its daily operations and student support systems.

Chui Tsang, the Superintendent and President at Santa Monica College, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Tsang oversees all academic, administrative, and operational functions, ensuring the college uphms its commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and world-class education. This pivotal role involves fostering strong community partnerships, driving innovation in teaching and learning, and championing student success initiatives. Chui Tsang is dedicated to maintaining the college's reputation as a leading transfer institution, facilitating seamless pathways for students to pursue higher education at prestigious universities. The Superintendent and President's leadership ensures robust financial stewardship and the continuous enhancement of resources to support a diverse student body.

Brittany Beall, the President at Santa Monica College, leads initiatives focused on enhancing student engagement and academic achievement. Beall champions programs designed to support a diverse student population, ensuring equitable access to educational resources and opportunities. This executive role involves collaborating with faculty and staff to foster an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. Brittany Beall oversees strategic planning efforts aimed at strengthening the college's transfer pathways to four-year universities and expanding its certificate programs. The President's commitment is to uphold the college's mission of delivering high-quality, affordable education and supporting students in reaching their full potential.

Jeffery Shimizu, the President at Santa Monica College, directs strategic operations and academic planning to advance the institution's educational mission. Shimizu focuses on enhancing the college's role as a premier transfer institution, cultivating robust relationships with universities and community stakeholders. This leadership role involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative academic programs and student support services. Jeffery Shimizu is committed to ensuring the college provides a world-class, affordable education that caters to a wide array of students, including international and out-of-state learners. The President's efforts are instrumental in securing financial aid and scholarship opportunities, empowering students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Gabriel Hernandez, the Club President at Santa Monica College, leads a specific student organization, fostering engagement and providing valuable extracurricular experiences. Hernandez directs the planning and execution of club activities, events, and initiatives that align with the organization's objectives and the broader college community. This role involves managing club resources, recruiting members, and promoting participation in campus life. Gabriel Hernandez works to create a supportive and enriching environment for club members, enhancing their personal and academic development. The Club President's dedication contributes to the vibrant campus culture at Santa Monica College, offering students opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and skill-building outside the traditional classroom setting.

Carole Currey, the Chief Technology Officer at Santa Monica College, architects and manages the institution's technological infrastructure and digital learning platforms. Currey drives innovation in educational technology, ensuring both on-campus and online learning environments are robust, secure, and user-friendly. This critical role involves overseeing the implementation of advanced systems that support academic delivery, administrative functions, and student services. Carole Currey champions the adoption of new technologies to enhance the learning experience and operational efficiency, directly supporting the college's commitment to providing a world-class education. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic direction ensures Santa Monica College remains at the forefront of technological integration in higher education, facilitating seamless access for all students.