The Commission’s decision follows a comprehensive evaluation process that included MSJC’s Institutional Self-Evaluation Report (ISER), a peer review team site visit, and a detailed analysis of evidentiary materials. The final action letter from ACCJC commends the college for meeting and, in several areas, exceeding all eligibility requirements and accreditation standards. Notably, the college received no compliance recommendations, signifying full alignment with the Commission’s expectations.

“This extraordinary achievement is a direct result of the hard work, dedication, and collective commitment of our entire college community,” said Rebecca Teague, MSJC’s Vice President of Student Services and Accreditation Liaison Officer. “From faculty and classified professionals to administrators and students, everyone played a critical role in making this possible. Our college was recognized not just for meeting standards, but for leading with heart, innovation, and equity.”

The ACCJC issued two formal commendations recognizing exemplary practices at MSJC:

For its institution-wide initiative, “Call to Action: Radical Reduction of Opportunity Gaps for African American and Black Students,” which demonstrates sustained, inclusive dialogue and meaningful efforts to promote equity and eliminate achievement gaps.

For the outstanding work of the Veterans Resource Center (VRC), lauded for its data-informed, personalized approach to engaging and supporting veteran students.

“These commendations reflect the heart of who we are as an institution: equity-minded, student-focused, and relentlessly dedicated to serving all who walk through our doors,” added Teague.

In addition to these accolades, the Commission offered one recommendation for improvement related to institutional effectiveness. The college has already taken steps to address this by implementing a new syllabus management system to better align course learning outcomes with official course outlines. This recommendation will be addressed in MSJC’s Midterm Report due in 2029.

“The reaffirmation of our accreditation is more than a milestone. It is a testament to the integrity, excellence, and shared purpose that defines Mt. San Jacinto College,” said Dr. Roger Schultz, MSJC Superintendent/President. “I could not be prouder of our team. This success belongs to every member of our college community, and it fuels our continued commitment to transforming learners, transforming communities, and transforming lives.”

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These are just a few inspiring stories highlighting Mt. San Jacinto College’s (MSJC) 61st Commencement Ceremony, held Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.  

MSJC held three separate ceremonies throughout the day to accommodate all graduates and their families. New this year, the college introduced real-time English and Spanish captioning and interpretation services, reflecting its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), with 52% of students identifying as Hispanic.  

MSJC awarded 2,556 graduates a total of 3,353 degrees and certificates. The graduates ranged in age from 15 to 90.   

During his keynote remarks, MSJC Superintendent/President Dr. Roger W. Schultz addressed the graduates:  

“Every graduation is a milestone, but today is particularly special because it represents more than the completion of courses or the earning of degrees. It is a celebration of action, breakthroughs, collaboration, and courage. The diploma you receive today is the key to new opportunities, challenges, and successes.”  

Among the graduates celebrated for their perseverance, leadership, and transformation:  

Gerardo Sanchez, 45, of Hemet, a husband, father of five, and caregiver to three children with autism. After dropping out of high school in 10th grade, he returned to education through MSJC’s Adult Education Program and earned his GED in 2022. He graduated with three associate degrees in Sociology, Social Justice, and Liberal Arts – Social and Behavioral Sciences. “The support I received from MSJC’s staff and programs made all the difference in my journey,” Sanchez said. “From food and gas cards to help during tough times, to replacing my broken laptop so I could stay enrolled, their support went far beyond the classroom. I was ready to give up more than once, but their belief in me kept me going. Today, I’m graduating with three degrees, and it’s because MSJC didn’t just support me—they empowered me. I hope to pay that forward someday.”  

Jaxon Tabesh, 21, of Murrieta, is graduating with five associate degrees, including in Business and Computer Science. A recipient of the 2023 North American Country Music Association International (NACMAI) award, Tabesh also distinguished himself as a leader on campus. He served as President of the Computer Science Club, an Honors Program mentor, Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship Officer, and a Supplemental Instruction Leader. He also helped organize MSJC’s first-ever hackathon. “Each role was an important part of my deeply rewarding leadership and graduation journey,” Tabesh said. “The support I received from MSJC was essential to my journey. From outstanding counselors and professors to dedicated tutors and supportive peers, I was surrounded by people who believed in me every step of the way. I truly could not have done it without them.”  

Rita Victoria Hernandez, 90, of Temecula, enrolled at MSJC during the COVID-19 pandemic at the urging of her family to “keep her brain alive.” Despite health challenges and personal loss, she persevered and became the oldest graduate in the Class of 2025. Her graduation marks a continuing family legacy—her granddaughter graduated from MSJC in 2022, her great-granddaughter in 2024, and her great-grandson will begin at MSJC in the fall. “As someone who had never experienced college before, I can honestly say the support I received at MSJC was unbelievable,” Hernandez said. “I was fortunate to learn from inspiring and dedicated professors whose encouragement played a key role in my success.”  

This year’s commencement also marked a solemn and historic moment for MSJC, as the college awarded its first-ever posthumous degree.  

In a profoundly moving tribute, the college recognized Marisa Alejandra Rosas, a beloved member of the MSJC community whose life was tragically cut short. Her passion for learning, commitment to her goals, and deep love for her community left a lasting impression on all who knew her.  

An empty chair with a flower in the front row honored Marisa’s presence and rightful place among the Class of 2025.  

“In honor of her academic efforts and the life she devoted to bettering herself and those around her,” Dr. Schultz said, “Mt. San Jacinto College is proud to award Marisa Alejandra Rosas with MSJC’s first posthumous degree. Please join us in recognizing and celebrating Marisa’s life and accomplishments.”  

The Class of 2025 reflects the heart of MSJC’s mission to transform learners, communities, and lives. With degrees earned, goals achieved, and new chapters beginning, this year’s graduates exemplify resilience, diversity, and determination.  

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MSJC received a “Mixed Associate Large” designation in the 2025 Institutional Classification, placing it among only 78 institutions nationwide—just 2% of U.S. colleges and universities included in this category. This classification is based on various factors, including degree offerings, subject areas, and institutional size, and it groups MSJC with peer institutions offering a diverse mix of associate degrees at a large scale.

MSJC also earned a “Higher Access, Medium Earnings” designation in the newly introduced Student Access and Earnings Classification. This classification includes 1,321 institutions, accounting for 43% of all classified U.S. colleges and universities. It reflects MSJC’s strong record in serving historically underrepresented students and helping them achieve competitive earnings outcomes post-graduation.

“These designations reflect MSJC’s unwavering commitment to two of our top institutional priorities—Equity in Access and Equity in Success,” said Dr. Roger Schultz, MSJC Superintendent/President. “We are proud to be recognized for enrolling and supporting a diverse student population, and for preparing our students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the workforce.”

The Institutional Classification is a revised framework that offers a descriptive snapshot of institutions based on publicly reported data. It is intended to promote research, analysis, and understanding of the structure of American higher education.

The Student Access and Earnings Classification, added in 2025, evaluates colleges based on two key dimensions: the enrollment of Pell Grant recipients and underrepresented racial/ethnic students (Access) and post-attendance earnings eight years after entry (Earnings), contextualized by local economic and demographic data.

For more information on the 2025 Carnegie Classifications and to explore an interactive database, visit: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu.

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Each year, the internship committee selects outstanding students to complete a one-year, paid internship in research labs at institutions like the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, UC San Diego (UCSD), and Cal State San Marcos (CSUSM). Interns gain professional experience in regenerative medicine, molecular biology, neuroscience, and genetics.

The 2024–2025 MSJC intern cohort exemplifies the college’s mission to transform lives through opportunity and mentorship. Students like Ashley Berg, Kenneth Muñoz, and Angelina McCarron earned placements in some of the state’s most prestigious research institutions.

Ashley Berg, of Murrieta, is currently interning at the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, where she uses confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence to study neurodegenerative diseases. Berg credits MSJC’s affordability and faculty mentorship for helping her discover her passion for science.

“If it weren’t for MSJC, I never would have discovered my love for biology or had access to an opportunity like this,” said Berg. “Taking biology with Dr. Reeves changed everything for me—I switched majors and found a path I truly love.”

Kenneth Muñoz, a Perris resident and biology major, is conducting gene therapy research on diseased mouse models at UCSD’s School of Medicine. His work includes advanced techniques like ddPCR and electron microscopy. Muñoz, who hopes to become a pediatrician with an M.D./Ph.D., emphasized the role MSJC played in his journey.

“MSJC helped me realize my full potential,” Muñoz said. “From the classroom to the Learning Resource Center to the guidance of Dr. Reeves, I had a support system that believed in me and prepared me for this kind of research.”

Angelina McCarron, a San Diego resident, works in Dr. Kelly Frazer’s lab at UCSD and supports DNA sequencing projects at the Institute for Genomic Medicine. Her internship experience includes genome editing and modeling cardiac disorders using CRISPR-Cas9. McCarron is excited about the breadth of lab work she’s experienced so far.

“I first heard about the CIRM internship through MSJC’s Honors Program, and that moment truly changed my life,” said McCarron. “MSJC gave me a place to explore research, grow my confidence, and ultimately compete for a spot in one of the most respected labs in the country.”

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 Interns Cohort, two exceptional students have been selected to begin their CIRM internships this summer:

Joia Miller of Murrieta will conduct research at UCSD and CSUSM in the CIRM Bridges Program while preparing for a career as a neurosurgeon and stem cell researcher. She shared, “MSJC gave me a chance, and the biology and anthropology/philosophy departments helped me focus my interests. The mentorship I’ve received is unmatched.”

Hannah Rosario, of Fallbrook, plans to pursue a Ph.D. and a future in academia. She looks forward to gaining lab experience and building resilience through challenges. Hannah says, “MSJC’s support, especially through the Honors Program and tutoring, made this internship possible.”

Past and current stem cell interns expressed gratitude to Dr. Reeves, who has guided dozens of students through the application and research process, said, “These internships provide students with high-impact experiences typically only accessible at major universities. MSJC is proud to be a bridge for students into the world of advanced scientific research and graduate education.”

MSJC’s commitment to Equity in Success empowers students to enter high-demand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The CIRM Bridges program is just one way the college helps students achieve academic excellence, build confidence, and shape a discovery-driven future.

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Reflecting on his time at MSJC, Dr. Lawson shared his gratitude for the opportunities and experiences he has gained during his more than five years with the college. “I have been blessed to be part of the MSJC family and look forward to taking what I’ve learned into my future endeavor,” said Dr. Lawson. “I want to thank Dr. Roger Schultz, Vice President Joyce Johnson, the Board of Trustees, the Executive Cabinet, our Distinguished Professors, and the classified professionals who have supported me in serving the students and communities of MSJC.”

Dr. Roger Schultz, Superintendent/President of MSJC, extended his congratulations to Dr. Lawson on this significant achievement. “Dr. Lawson has been a remarkable leader and a champion for student success,” said Dr. Schultz. “His dedication to our students and communities has left a lasting impact, and we are proud to see him take on this well-deserved leadership opportunity. Northland Pioneer College is fortunate to have him.”

Vice President of Career Education, Nursing & Allied Health Joyce Johnson praised Dr. Lawson’s lasting contributions to MSJC. “Dr. Lawson’s vision and commitment to equity and access have shaped many of the positive changes we’ve seen in career education,” said VP Johnson. “While we will miss his leadership and passion, we celebrate this next chapter in his career and wish him every success.”

During his tenure at MSJC, Dr. Lawson led initiatives that significantly enhanced student success and strengthened the college’s connection to its surrounding communities. His departure represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for him, where his extensive experience and student-focused leadership will continue to benefit the students and communities of NPC.

Dr. Lawson also looks forward to relocating to Arizona and beginning this new venture alongside his beloved 135-pound Saint Bernard, affectionately known as “Fat Daddy.” He humorously noted, “As the saying goes, once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Well, I will continue to be an Eagle, as that’s also the mascot for NPC.”

Known for his servant-leadership approach, Dr. Lawson describes himself as a leader who prefers to shine the spotlight on the students he serves rather than his own accomplishments. His unwavering focus on student success will undoubtedly continue to guide his efforts in this new role.

The post Dr. Von Lawson to Depart Mt. San Jacinto College for Presidency at Northland Pioneer College appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

The school has undergone some changes since the previous school year with former preschool teacher Lenora “Ponie” Mojado now the Preschool Administrator. Instead of creating and implementing lesson plans, she is now busy going to meetings, setting up fundraisers, talking with parents and taking care of day-to-day operations.

“This change happened a couple of days before school started (on August 6). I had all my preschool classes ready to go and everything done, and they asked if I would like to take the position, and I said yes. This is a big step for me, and I’m excited about taking on this role,” Mojado said.

She served as the interim administrator during the final months of the previous school year and said it was hard doing the job while still teaching. “I would get pulled away from my class to let my aide, Alaina, handle the classroom. It wasn’t fair for her, and I appreciated her hard work and dedication throughout this transition,” she said.

She said the biggest challenge has been taking over the budget. But the benefits have already been noticeable and many. “The goals that I want in this role are for the children to have a fun, safe, learning environment; to mostly learn about their culture and how we come together as a community,” she said. “These children are the future of the Tribe, and it starts here at preschool. Their schooling and foundation start here, and I want the children to learn and grow from their preschool and kindergarten experiences.”

Mojado is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, and she will be able to continue her studies while working in this position, a stipulation she made before accepting it.

The school no longer offers a “2s” class, which was usually pretty small. Mojado plans to use that existing classroom as a resource center for children that need extra support.

“I’m still trying to decide on the plans, but the future is looking bright at the preschool,” she said.

Current enrollment is at 50 and Mojado said they are finally fully staffed and even have a preschool assistant, Lilly Gutierrez.

Inside the entrance, each class has a posting board that shows at a glance what the lesson plan and schedule will be for the coming weeks as well as upcoming important dates and reminders. Also included is the daily lunch schedule.

Mojado said there will be new changes in preschool policies, which have been submitted to Tribal Council for approval. She said there are changes in teachers and teacher’s aides in the Pre-K and preschool rooms, but nothing too significant.

Kindergarten teacher Laura Aldrete’s posted note welcomed families and let them know that the month would be spent getting to know the environment, teachers, staff and each other. They will also work on becoming familiarized with the routines and structures of the kindergarten class that is in session from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

With 18 students enrolled so far, each child has an individual desk with storage rather than a cubby and shared tables that the younger age levels still have. “It benefits the students’ personal space, helps them focus on learning at their desks and prepares them for elementary school,” Mojado said. Aldrete and Instructional Aide Elena Vega Castello answered questions from parents who toured the classroom.

“The first two weeks were challenging for all of us, but the kids got used to things very fast,” Aldrete said, adding that having individual desks makes a big difference, giving the children a lot more independence.

Pre-K teacher Ana Garcia, who has been teaching at the preschool for six years, is joined by Instructional Aide Alaina Adkins who worked in the preschool class with Mojado last year. The biggest change this year is there is only a morning class of 20 students for this age group of mostly four-year-olds. Garcia can use the afternoons for prep time now and it seems to be working.

“So far, we’re doing good as a team,” she said. “A lot of the students were at the school last year (with Alaina) so that’s been a big strength.”

Although the curriculum remains the same, Garcia is using a different approach by letting the children explore and learn. They will observe them as they do problem solving on their own. “My goal is to have them sitting at their own table places to get the idea of staying in place,” Garcia said. “My goal is to get them ready for kindergarten. I want them to learn and get familiar with letter sounds so when they get to kindergarten they are not struggling.”

The preschool class of mostly three-year-olds, which used to be Mojado’s class, is now led by teacher Julissa Garcia and Instructional Aide Jess Thompson. With a class size of 12, the focus will be on getting children accustomed to being in a school setting as well as learning skills such as letter sounds, formations and more.

They shared the importance of letting children bring family photos to post on the “Nokiiyam” (family in the Luiseño language) board “to help them feel represented in their learning environment while they are away from home.” There will be monthly family projects so families can interact with each other and the children can share with the class. The first project was an “All About Our Class” binder that contained a page on each child. They included photos of their favorite toys, movies, activities and family photos.

“We know parents are their first teachers so we’re all in this together,” Garcia told the parents who stopped by her classroom. “We will do observations and assessments on each student, but we don’t compare them in any way. All children learn at a different pace and in their own ways.”

Each of the three grade levels offered a theme that was carried throughout their classrooms that the teachers decided on. “It’s a good way for their creative sides to show,” Mojado said. “Everyone’s classroom came out fantastic, and it was great to see their classes come to life. I love the themes this year; the teachers worked so hard in their classrooms.”

Preschoolers were welcomed to their “groovy” classroom where “Good Vibes Only” is the retro-1970s theme. Pre-K students were greeted with a “Hello Sunshine” theme and told to “be kind, be brave, be you.” Those in kindergarten were told they “put the cool in school” and that each day “will be a good day.”

Many resources were available to parents as they walked the hallway. There were treats for the children such as coloring books and kinetic sand from the Department of Public Safety officers and puzzles and pencils from Soboba Fire Department personnel. Backpacks, tee shirts and placemats about healthy eating were offered by Hosea Jones of the CalFresh Healthy Living program for Riverside University Health System. Jessica Plumlee, with Tribal Family Partners, shared the free programs offered for families of Native children from pre-natal to kindergarten.

A spaghetti dinner was offered in the adjacent multipurpose room and most families met there to chat with others and share what they had just learned from their child’s teachers.

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This academic year marks a significant milestone for MSJC, reflecting a continued rise in enrollment and underscoring the college’s dedication to accessible, flexible, and affordable education. The college’s diverse course offerings, including in-person, online, and hybrid formats, cater to students’ varying needs, providing them with the flexibility to balance their academic and personal commitments effectively.

Dr. Roger Schultz, Superintendent/President of MSJC, expressed his enthusiasm for the new academic year: “We will continue to work together as a community of transformation for the lives of our students and for the betterment of our region.” Dr. Schultz also highlighted upcoming developments, including the grand opening of new STEM buildings at the San Jacinto and Menifee Valley campuses. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to enhance the educational experience and support academic growth.

In addition to these advancements, MSJC is expanding its academic offerings with new and enhanced programs within the Nursing and Allied Health Department. Students can now benefit from expanded training in Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Emergency Medical Technician programs. Dr. Schultz added, “I am so proud of our institution and the innovative learning programs and extracurricular activities curated to offer each of our students the opportunity to explore interests, develop personally and professionally, and reach their full potential.”

At the Temecula Valley Campus, the start of the academic year was marked by memorable moments. Sisters Elyssa and Naya Sim began their college experience together, while Great Oak High School graduates Aidan Savena and Owen Streeter enjoyed a welcoming breakfast as they started their college journey in their hometown. The sense of community and local pride was evident as students embraced the opportunities ahead.

The San Jacinto Campus saw an extra layer of excitement with the unveiling of the new STEM building. Students, including Diagnostic Medical Sonography major Anahi Guerra Brito, were impressed by the state-of-the-art facility. “The building is beautiful, honestly. It’s very new and very technologically advanced, and I’m happy to start classes here,” she noted.

At the Menifee Valley Campus, the Learning Resource Center tutors, including Ace Araujo, Olivia Frazier, and Katrina Bellemonte, rallied behind the students with encouraging words: “We are rooting for you, Eagles!” Their support highlighted the collaborative spirit and dedication of the Menifee Valley Campus community.

As MSJC moves forward into this academic year, the college remains committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment where every student can thrive. With a focus on community and academic excellence, MSJC is poised for a successful and transformative year ahead.

For Dr. Schultz’s welcome video message, please visit https://youtu.be/Gap_ElK8Z2Q.

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Hamilton High School’s Angie Delgado says, “I am devoted to my chosen field of study.  I have always found an interest in Kinesiology and am fascinated by the idea of helping athletes with their athletic journey.”  Angie will be the first in her family to attend college, a point of immense pride for her and her family.  Angie is hoping to attend Cal State San Marcos or Mt. San Antonio College, focusing on movement anatomy or exercise physiology.

Kayla Benson from Hemet High School says that after she acquires her college degree in Civil Engineering, “I want to serve my community and help those who struggle.  I’ve been inspired by the needs of the people I see every day who are less fortunate and need somewhere to call their own.  Education is power, and the more I know the more I can do good for others.”   Kayla plans to attend either Brigham Young University Provo or BYU Idaho in the fall.

Although mathematics isn’t every student’s favorite subject, Ubaldo Puente of Tahquitz High School plans to further his education at the University of Utah where he will work towards a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and eventually earn his teaching credential.  “I want my future students to view the subject in a new light, the way my third grade teacher showed my peers and me a new perspective on the misunderstood subject.”  Dr. Emily Shaw, Hemet Unified School District’s Director of Wellness and Community Outreach, says, “Ubaldo is the all-around package: brains, character, high morals and strong leadership.”

Western Center Academy graduating senior Logan Fogle says, “For as long as I can remember, I have had a love for the outdoors and an appreciation for the natural world’s complexity and simplicity.  I find a peace and relaxation in nature.  I want to pursue a career in nature, working for the US Forest Service as a Forester.  My office will be among the trees, my water cooler will be a cool mountain stream.”  Logan plans to attend Cal Poly Humboldt University and major in Forestry.  Western Center AP English teacher Tonya Brady says that Logan will bring “a focused dedication to college where no class will intimidate him.  He is a quality person.” 

Sports Medicine has become a profound part of Nathalie Garcia’s life. She has a passion for helping athletes and making a meaningful impact.  She developed that passion at West Valley High School, “working at my school’s clinic with 8 other selected peers and working and interacting with individuals outside of school.  Sports medicine is more than a career to me, it’s an emotional and heartwarming journey that stirs my soul.” Her two years in West Valley’s CTC Sports Medicine class has had quite an impact on this young lady.  Nathalie has her eyes set on attending Cal State San Marcos with a major in Kinesiology and the ultimate goal of becoming a physical therapist. 

“Whether grappling with the complexities of mathematics or immersing myself in literature, my thirst for understanding remains insatiable, propelling me towards continual growth.”  These are the words of Eugene Hernandez, HEF scholarship award winner from The Academy of Innovation.  Eugene says that with a “deep-seated passion for education and a genuine desire to inspire and empower others, I aspire to pursue a career in teaching.”  His plans are to first acquire an AA degree from MSJC then transfer to a university to earn his bachelor’s degree and eventually his teaching credential. 

Since 1978, the Hemet Education Foundation has been supporting schools sites and students in the Hemet Unified School District with financial donations and academic scholarships.  Over the past 15 years, the Foundation has donated over $104,000 to the District’s schools for much-needed supplies and resources.  Additionally, since 2014, the Hemet Education Foundation has awarded over $200,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors in the district — $500 to qualifying seniors at both of our alternative high schools, and $5000 to qualifying seniors at each of our five comprehensive high schools.  For more information about the Hemet Education Foundation, you can access their website at hemeteducationfoundation.com.

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