Retiree Kim Westby Recognized

Dr. Jose Fierro, Kim, and Dr. Dilcie PerezThe Cerritos College Board of Trustees recognized retiree Kim Westby, dean of Student Support Services, for her many years of service to the College on June 5.

Kim has been at Cerritos College for 34 years as an esteemed employee and an integral part of the area of Student Services. Her dedication to supporting her team, her colleagues, and student success efforts is commendable. Her first role on campus was as a Financial Aid Technician, and she worked her way up to Dean of Student Support Services, where she has led Financial Aid, EOPS, CARE, and LINC for the past 13 years. In 2018, Kim also took on the role of Acting Vice President of Student Services for six months.

Under Kim’s leadership, the Financial Aid Office has implemented interventions to support students to successfully complete their desired certificate or degree within a timely manner, implemented electronic disbursements, utilized technology to improve customer service, and enhanced financial literacy efforts across campus. She has also been instrumental in the growth and success of the EOPS and LINC programs at the college. Kim's support and advocacy for students experiencing food and housing insecurity has also been greatly appreciated.

"On behalf of Cerritos College, I would like to wish Kim the best of luck in her endeavors and thank her for her contributions. She will be greatly missed, but I am happy for her as her retirement is well-deserved," said Dr. Dilcie Perez, vice president of Student Services.

In honor of Kim’s many years of dedicated service, a celebration is currently being planned and the details will be provided to the campus once they are finalized.

Thank you, Kim, for your service at Cerritos College! Upon your retirement, we wish you good health, success, and fulfillment in the many years ahead.