Laura Estrada named 2025 Outstanding Classified Manager of the Year
The Association for Cerritos College Management Employees (ACCME) has named Assistant
Director of Admissions and Records Laura Estrada as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding
Classified Manager Award.
Laura has been at Cerritos College since July 2022. Laura’s efforts in Admissions and Records and commitment to students, staff, and faculty have had an incredible positive impact on our campus and community.
As shared by those who nominated her for this award, Laura is an extraordinary professional whose dedication and attention to detail have elevated not only Admissions & Records but also countless other areas across the campus. She leads with quiet strength and an unwavering commitment to student success that inspires everyone around her.
Laura’s contributions go far beyond her title. She’s front and center whenever students need help, consistently going above and beyond to ensure they feel supported and heard. Whether it’s a busy day in Admissions & Records or a student seeking guidance, Laura steps in with care and compassion. She supports her team and our students in resolving any concerns or issues that may arise. Laura is the initial point of contact for these individuals, who are often experiencing a crisis, to help refer them to the correct area and offer a supportive ear.
She has also trained our Student Ambassadors with this same level of dedication, preparing them to meet students’ needs and fostering an environment of growth. As shared by Student Ambassador nominators, Laura’s approachable and friendly demeanor transforms interactions into meaningful connections. Students reported feeling her commitment the moment they meet her, and her positive attitude ensures that everyone—students, staff, and colleagues—experience a pleasant and productive work environment.
For some of her nominators, Laura’s impact was deeply personal. It was shared that she’s not just an exceptional manager, but also a guide and mentor. One student shared how Laura went out of her way to help them find resources and connect with a mentor who shaped their pathway to success. As an employee, they shared that she is a beacon of support, helping folks navigate complex systems and processes with her trademark positivity.
Laura’s leadership extends far and wide, as she oversees a critical area within the student services area. From managing technical challenges like bot students and PeopleSoft updates, to addressing her team’s needs with empathy, Laura has consistently demonstrated that outstanding leadership is about understanding people. She ensures her team has the tools and encouragement they need, while never losing sight of the students we all serve.
Laura has shown us that exceptional management is not just about solving problems—it’s about building bridges, fostering success, and creating an environment where students and staff alike can thrive.
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