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 for the institution. Baruth's leadership ensures alignment with the college's mission to provide affordable, world-class education and maintain its status as California's top transfer college. This executive role involves fostering key relationships with university partners and community stakeholders to enhance student pathways to prestigious institutions. Curtis Baruth drives initiatives that support the college's diverse student body, including international and out-of-state learners, by optimizing resource allocation and strategic planning. The focus remains on expanding access to high-quality education and ensuring sustained institutional excellence.

Diane Chen, the President at Santa Monica College, spearheads academic excellence and institutional development, focusing on enhancing the college's renowned transfer programs. Chen's leadership cultivates an environment that supports over 200 degrees and certificates, ensuring curriculum relevance and quality for a diverse student population. This executive role involves strategic oversight of academic departments, faculty development, and student support services, all aimed at facilitating student success and career readiness. Diane Chen champions initiatives that reinforce Santa Monica College's position as a leading institution for students aiming for transfer to top-tier universities. The President's vision guides the college's commitment to affordability and educational impact.

Michael Roberts, the CSEA President at Santa Monica College, represents and advocates for the California School Employees Association members, ensuring their rights and professional interests are upheld. Roberts' leadership focuses on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment for classified school employees, integral to the college's daily operations and student services. This role involves direct engagement with college administration to address workplace concerns, negotiate agreements, and promote professional development opportunities. Michael Roberts plays a crucial part in maintaining the operational integrity of Santa Monica College by ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of its essential staff. The CSEA President's efforts contribute to the overall stability and success of the college community.

Gabriel Hernandez, the Club President at Santa Monica College, leads student organizations, fostering engagement and providing platforms for extracurricular development and community building. Hernandez's role involves empowering student leaders, coordinating club activities, and ensuring a vibrant campus life that complements academic pursuits. This position requires effective communication and organizational skills to support a wide range of student interests and initiatives. Gabriel Hernandez champions student voice and participation, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive campus environment. The Club President's dedication enhances the overall student experience at Santa Monica College, promoting leadership and personal growth.

Jeffery Shimizu, the President at Santa Monica College, drives strategic initiatives focused on enhancing academic programs and student success outcomes. Shimizu's leadership emphasizes the college's commitment to providing a world-class, affordable education, particularly for students pursuing transfer pathways to prestigious universities. This executive position involves overseeing curriculum development, faculty support, and the implementation of innovative educational strategies. Jeffery Shimizu works to strengthen Santa Monica College's reputation as a leading transfer institution by fostering strong relationships with university partners and ensuring the quality of academic offerings. The President's focus remains on student achievement and institutional advancement.

Ailsa Ortiz, the President at Santa Monica College, directs efforts to advance the college's mission of delivering accessible and high-quality education. Ortiz's leadership prioritizes student support services and the expansion of academic opportunities, including online and on-campus learning options. This role involves strategic planning to ensure Santa Monica College continues to excel as a top transfer institution, facilitating student transitions to universities like UC, USC, and LMU. Ailsa Ortiz champions initiatives that enhance the student experience and promote educational equity. The President's commitment is to uphold the college's standard of excellence and affordability for a diverse student body.

Brittany Beall, the President at Santa Monica College, leads initiatives aimed at strengthening the college's academic offerings and student support systems. Beall's focus is on ensuring Santa Monica College remains a premier institution for student transfers, providing pathways to top universities. This executive role involves overseeing strategic planning for academic programs, fostering faculty collaboration, and enhancing the overall learning environment. Brittany Beall is dedicated to upholding the college's commitment to affordability and educational excellence for all students, including international learners. The President's leadership ensures continued success in student achievement and institutional growth.

Piedad Robertson, the College President at Santa Monica College, guides the institution's strategic direction, emphasizing its role as a leading transfer college. Robertson's leadership ensures the delivery of a world-class, affordable education, supporting over 200 degrees and certificates for a diverse student population. This critical role involves fostering academic innovation, enhancing student services, and strengthening partnerships with universities to facilitate seamless student transfers. Piedad Robertson champions initiatives that promote educational equity and access, reinforcing Santa Monica College's commitment to student success. The College President's vision drives the institution's ongoing pursuit of excellence and its impact on higher education.

Carole Currey, the Chief Technology Officer at Santa Monica College, architects and oversees the institution's technological infrastructure and digital learning environments. Currey's responsibilities encompass the strategic implementation of innovative technologies to support both on-campus and online educational delivery, ensuring a seamless and effective learning experience for all students. This leadership position involves managing IT operations, cybersecurity, and the integration of new digital tools that enhance academic programs and administrative efficiency. Carole Currey drives the technological roadmap, supporting Santa Monica College's commitment to providing relevant and accessible education. The CTO ensures that technology serves as a catalyst for student success and institutional advancement.