Aspen Institute selects Cerritos College for inaugural Presidents & Trustees Collaborative

Cerritos College has been selected as one of 10 community colleges nationwide to join the inaugural cohort of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program’s Presidents & Trustees Collaborative. This year-long initiative supports governing boards and college presidents in strengthening alignment to advance student outcomes through effective, equity-focused leadership.

Cerritos College serves communities across Southeast Los Angeles County, where many students are the first in their families to attend college. The Collaborative will support stronger outcomes for these students by helping college leadership make informed, data-driven decisions that are grounded in student voice.

Led by the Aspen Institute, a national leader in advancing student success and institutional excellence, the Collaborative connects Cerritos College President/Superintendent Dr. Jose Fierro and the Board of Trustees with national experts and peer institutions. Participants will explore proven strategies from top-performing colleges to enhance decision-making processes and increase impact where it matters most—student success.

“I’m proud to be part of a team that puts students at the center of every decision,” said Board President Mariana Pacheco. “This opportunity allows us to grow even stronger as a governing body while continuing to remove barriers so more students from our communities can reach their goals and access the life-changing power of a college degree.”

Cerritos College’s selection reflects its deep commitment to student-centered, data-informed leadership. Over the past decade, the number of degrees and certificates awarded annually has more than tripled —opening more doors to good jobs, university transfer, and economic mobility for local families.

The college’s board and president routinely track student progress using key data points, such as course completion, transfer, and graduation rates, to help more students succeed. Participation in the Aspen Collaborative will provide additional tools to strengthen governance and accelerate progress for all students, especially those who have been historically underserved.

“This national recognition reflects our shared commitment to leading with purpose and ensuring every student has a real shot at success,” said Dr. Jose Fierro, Cerritos College President/Superintendent. “We look forward to learning alongside our peers and continuing to lead with clarity, accountability, and a deep commitment to our students and the communities we serve.”