Santa Monica College Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Santa Monica College has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and student success.

Driven by a commitment to accessible and world-class education, Santa Monica College empowers students through diverse academic offerings and robust support systems, solidifying its position as a leading transfer institution.

Leadership Roles at Santa Monica College

  • Club President - Gabriel Hernandez
  • President - Ailsa Ortiz
  • CSEA President - Michael Roberts
  • President - Carole Currey
  • President - Jeffery Shimizu
  • President - Brittany Beall
  • Superintendent and President - Chui Tsang
  • President - Cornelius Peterson
  • President - Diane Chen
  • President - Rebecca Kennerly
  • Gabriel Hernandez - Club President

    Gabriel Hernandez, the Club President at Santa Monica College, directs student engagement initiatives and extracurricular programming. Overseeing various student organizations, Hernandez ensures vibrant campus life and fosters leadership development among student groups. This role involves coordinating events, managing club resources, and promoting student participation in campus activities. By facilitating collaboration between different clubs, Hernandez strengthens the student community and enhances the overall college experience. The Club President's focus remains on empowering students to connect and grow through shared interests and organizational leadership.

    Ailsa Ortiz - President

    Ailsa Ortiz, the President at Santa Monica College, drives strategic vision and institutional advancement. Overseeing all facets of college operations, Ortiz ensures alignment with the mission of providing world-class, affordable education. This leadership position involves fostering academic excellence, expanding program offerings, and enhancing student support services. By collaborating with faculty and staff, Ortiz cultivates an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. The President's commitment extends to strengthening community partnerships and securing resources to support student success and institutional sustainability. Ailsa Ortiz champions innovation in educational delivery, both on-campus and online.

    Michael Roberts - CSEA President

    Michael Roberts, the CSEA President at Santa Monica College, advocates for the rights and professional development of classified school employees. Overseeing representation and support for CSEA members, Roberts ensures fair labor practices and enhances workplace conditions. This role involves negotiating contracts, addressing grievances, and promoting a positive working environment for classified staff. By fostering communication between employees and administration, Michael Roberts facilitates constructive dialogue and problem-solving. The CSEA President's dedication is to empowering classified employees and ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued within the college community.

    Carole Currey - President

    Carole Currey, the President at Santa Monica College, guides the institution's strategic direction and operational effectiveness. Currey oversees the implementation of academic programs and student services designed to foster transfer success and career readiness. This leadership role involves championing initiatives that enhance educational quality and affordability for a diverse student population. By fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, Carole Currey ensures the college remains responsive to community needs and educational trends. The President's focus is on driving institutional growth and maintaining Santa Monica College's reputation as a premier transfer institution.

    Jeffery Shimizu - President

    Jeffery Shimizu, the President at Santa Monica College, directs the college's comprehensive strategic planning and resource allocation. Shimizu oversees the development and execution of initiatives aimed at enhancing student learning outcomes and facilitating seamless transfers to four-year universities. This critical role involves fostering innovation in curriculum and pedagogy, ensuring the college remains at the forefront of educational best practices. By cultivating partnerships and securing funding, Jeffery Shimizu supports the college's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The President's leadership ensures Santa Monica College continues its legacy of academic excellence and student achievement.

    Brittany Beall - President

    Brittany Beall, the President at Santa Monica College, leads the charge in advancing student advocacy and campus community development. Beall oversees programs and initiatives designed to enrich the student experience and promote engagement across diverse student populations. This position involves fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring all students have the resources needed to succeed. By collaborating with college leadership, Brittany Beall champions student-centered policies and services. The President's dedication lies in empowering students, enhancing campus life, and reinforcing Santa Monica College's commitment to holistic student development.

    Chui Tsang - Superintendent and President

    Chui Tsang, the Superintendent and President at Santa Monica College, provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for the entire institution. Tsang directs all operational, academic, and administrative functions, ensuring the college fulfills its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. This comprehensive role involves guiding institutional planning, fostering innovation, and maintaining strong relationships with community stakeholders. By championing student success and academic excellence, Chui Tsang upholds Santa Monica College's reputation as a leading transfer institution. The Superintendent and President's vision drives the college's commitment to affordability and educational relevance for all learners.
    Chui Tsang

    Cornelius Peterson - President

    Cornelius Peterson, the President at Santa Monica College, spearheads the college's strategic initiatives and institutional growth. Peterson oversees the implementation of academic programs and student support services, focusing on enhancing transfer rates and career preparedness. This leadership position involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement and academic rigor. By managing institutional resources effectively, Cornelius Peterson ensures the college remains a leader in providing affordable, world-class education. The President's commitment is to empowering students and advancing the college's mission through innovative educational strategies and strong community partnerships.

    Diane Chen - President

    Diane Chen, the President at Santa Monica College, drives the strategic vision for academic innovation and student success. Chen oversees the development and enhancement of diverse degree and certificate programs, ensuring their relevance and affordability. This role involves fostering a collaborative environment that supports faculty and staff in delivering exceptional educational experiences. By championing student-centered initiatives, Diane Chen strengthens the college's commitment to accessibility for local, international, and out-of-state learners. The President's focus remains on advancing Santa Monica College's position as a premier transfer institution through excellence in teaching and student support.

    Rebecca Kennerly - President

    Rebecca Kennerly, the President at Santa Monica College, leads the institution's strategic planning and operational management. Kennerly oversees the delivery of comprehensive academic programs and student services, emphasizing transfer pathways to prestigious universities. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of academic excellence and promoting affordability for all students. By cultivating strong community ties and partnerships, Rebecca Kennerly ensures the college remains responsive to evolving educational needs. The President's dedication is to empowering students to achieve their educational and career aspirations, reinforcing Santa Monica College's status as a top-tier transfer institution.
    Rebecca Kennerly

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Santa Monica College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Santa Monica College?
    Santa Monica College is led by Gabriel Hernandez (Club President), along with executives such as Ailsa Ortiz (President) and Michael Roberts (CSEA President).
    Who is part of Santa Monica College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Santa Monica College includes leaders such as Gabriel Hernandez (Club President), Ailsa Ortiz (President), Michael Roberts (CSEA President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Santa Monica College have?
    Santa Monica College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Santa Monica College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Santa Monica College includes roles such as Club President, President, CSEA President, President, President.