April 17, 2025

Approval of Minutes from March 20, 2025

Minutes approved.

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Institutional Effectiveness Partnership Initiative (IEPI) Partnership Resource Team (PRT) presentation and draft request letter for technical assistance

The meeting began with a discussion about the IEPI Partnership Resource Team (PRT) process, which involves a three-visit approach to develop the Institutional Innovation and Effectiveness Plan (IEIP). The first visit will be an initial consultation and preparation, followed by a second visit where a menu of options will be presented to the college. The third visit will follow up on the progress made and evaluate the college’s accomplishments.

 
The college is eligible for up to $200,000 in seed money to support the development of the IEIP. This process will require approval from both the Academic Senate president and the college president, who will need to sign off on the plan. A draft letter must be submitted, outlining the college’s successes, focus areas, timeline, and objectives. This letter will also need to show how the proposed plan aligns with Vision 2030 and statewide workforce priorities. Once the letter is signed, further discussions will occur to refine the areas of focus and begin developing the IEIP. 

A major focus of the plan is to expand non-credit and continuing education, particularly in the areas of workforce training and contract education. There are opportunities to partner with local businesses to offer tailored training programs that meet industry needs. These programs could lead to certificates aligned with industry-recognized credentials. In addition to expanding vocational training, the plan will explore the development of curriculum for non-credit and contract education, which will be vital for reskilling and upskilling workers. 

The development of the IEIP will include setting objectives for professional development, improving workforce training programs, and creating a data repository to track students’ progress in non-credit programs, certifications, and other relevant achievements. This data system will allow the college to monitor outcomes in real time and adjust its practices accordingly. 

The rationale for this initiative lies in the need to align the college’s programs with regional workforce sectors. By providing flexible, just-in-time training and aligning with local labor market needs, the college can offer students the skills they need to secure employment. The plan also aims to serve adult learners, especially those who may not need a traditional degree but could benefit from non-credit reskilling options. This will also help bridge the gap created by a declining traditional student population as more adults seek retraining opportunities. 

The proposed plan aligns with Governor Newsom's California Master Plan for Career Education, which focuses on strengthening regional coordination and addressing workforce needs for both young and older adults. By expanding its capacity in workforce development and partnering with local businesses, the college will be able to better meet the needs of both employers and students. 

The timeline for the proposed visits includes a first visit in Fall 2025, followed by a second visit in Spring 2026, and a third visit after that. The draft letter, which outlines the plan and timeline, was reviewed and discussed. After a short discussion, the proposal was put forth for approval, and the motion was seconded. No concerns or abstentions were raised, and the motion passed unanimously, officially approving the college’s participation in the IEPI PRT process. 

The college president expressed appreciation to all involved, acknowledging the leadership team and the College Council for their collaboration. The project is expected to have a significant impact on the college’s academic offerings and workforce development efforts. It was emphasized that this initiative will enhance the services provided to the community, faculty, staff, and students.

 
This item concluded with a reminder that the California Master Plan for Career Education would be discussed in the next College Council meeting, and members were encouraged to review the plan before that discussion.

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LGBTQ+ Affinity Group Presentation

Pelusi and the team presented a proposal to formally establish a new LGBTQIA+ affinity group on campus under the name DAPA (De Anza Pride Association). The group is seeking official recognition and representation within the college’s shared governance structure.

The presenters—Jamie (Pride Center Coordinator), Thomas Ray (Dean of Language Arts), Lauren Gordon (English Instructor), and Susana Ramirez (Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Faculty and Co-Director of the Pride Center), Melissa Aguilar (Co-Director of the Student Success Center) —provided an overview of the group’s work and historical context. They emphasized that DAPA’s formation builds on decades of LGBTQIA+ organizing at De Anza and within the district, including the development of the Pride Center, Pride Learning Community, LGBTQIA+ Studies courses, and the Queer & Now Conference.

The presentation also noted that De Anza College has a long history of LGBTQIA+ advocacy, including a reported milestone of being among the first community colleges to offer domestic partner benefits in 1993. Much of the college’s progress in this area has been led by student activism, including efforts to establish all-gender restrooms and inclusive signage.

DAPA formally requested to be added as an official affinity group with representation on shared governance bodies. Council members discussed implications for bylaws and representation. Academic Senate and Classified Senate representatives expressed support and indicated they would begin the process of updating bylaws to include DAPA, aiming for implementation by the 2025–2026 academic year, or sooner where possible.

The group reiterated the importance of formal representation given the national context for LGBTQIA+ rights and the need for institutional support.

Following discussion, a motion to approve DAPA as an official De Anza College affinity group was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Pelusi agreed to provide the presentation file for posting on the College Council website.

The Council acknowledged the work and commitment of DAPA members and expressed appreciation for their leadership.

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President's Update 

President Torres provided a comprehensive update, recognizing the many important developments underway at the college and within the district. The update included the following key items: 

Sanctuary District Resolution 

• President Torres congratulated the district on the successful passage of a board resolution declaring the district a Sanctuary District. The resolution was passed unanimously by the Board of Trustees, with only minor edits that did not affect its intent.
• Appreciation was extended to the task force—including faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and students—whose collaborative efforts made the resolution possible. 
• President Torres reminded the group that while this is a meaningful step, federal oversight remains a reality. In cases involving subpoenas or warrants, legal compliance is still required. He emphasized that any such matters should be referred to his office. 
• He acknowledged the bravery of those who testified at the board meeting and stressed the importance of upholding the district’s values of equity and community.

International Student Visa Terminations 

• An update was provided regarding federal actions affecting international students. Six De Anza students have had their visa status terminated, down from an earlier, possibly overstated number due to some data discrepancies. 
• The ISP (International Student Programs) team, under the leadership of Nazy Galoyan and Dr. Mieso, has been highly proactive in contacting students, offering support, and connecting them to legal resources. 
• President Torres addressed a recent student newspaper article that misrepresented the college’s response, clarifying that affected students had been contacted and supported appropriately. A request for correction has been submitted. 

Vision 2030 Convening

• President Torres shared highlights from the Bay Area Community College Consortium “Vision 2030” convening, which he attended along with other district and college representatives. 
• The convening focused on aligning the district and college efforts with the state’s Vision 2030 goals, using performance data from recent years and projections through 2029–2030.
•  Emphasis was placed on the strong collaboration between De Anza, Foothill, and district representatives in developing strategies to move forward. 
• These conversations will inform upcoming strategic planning, including the 2025–2026 College Strategic Plan and related master plans. 

Career Education Master Plan – Homework Assignment 

• President Torres encouraged members to review the newly released Career Education Master Plan from the Governor’s Office, which is linked in the meeting agenda. 
• The plan will be discussed at the May College Council meeting to explore opportunities for De Anza College to engage with and contribute to state career education goals. 
• The discussion will help identify actionable areas, responsible parties, and necessary resources. 

Medical Center Update 

• A new Letter of Intent has been received from the County regarding the proposed medical center on campus. 
• The letter reflects a willingness to engage in dialogue around: 
  
  • Increasing student access to internships, particularly in programs with required clinical hours (e.g., Nursing, MLT). 
    
  • Revisiting the proposed location of the center to minimize impact on student use areas, including the flea market.
• President Torres shared his confidence that the college can advocate successfully for expanded clinical placements by emphasizing the strength and structure of De Anza’s healthcare programs. 

President Torres concluded by thanking all those involved in these critical efforts and encouraged continued communication and collaboration as these initiatives develop.

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Enrollment Management Spring Quarter Update

The update on Spring Quarter enrollment revealed that as of the current date, enrollment is up by 0.7%. This follows the trend observed in previous quarters, where the quarter started with lower enrollment but ended with an increase. The growth can be attributed to fewer fraudulent enrollments compared to last year, as well as the addition of late-start classes. This year, the college added approximately 12-15 more late-start sections than last year, which is expected to further boost enrollment figures. It is projected that by the end of the Spring Quarter, enrollment will increase by 2-3%, leading to an overall growth of 4-5% for the year. This projection includes the successful Summer session and the positive growth across the three main quarters. 

In terms of the breakdown, online enrollment has increased by 4%, while in-person enrollment has seen a slight decrease. Resident enrollment is down by 1%, whereas nonresident enrollment has risen by 14%. Specifically, Latinx enrollment is down by 1%, while Native American enrollment has increased by 47%. However, this increase in Native American students is from a smaller population, so the percentage rise appears larger. Enrollment in the "Other" category is down by 18%, while the "Unknown" category saw a 16% increase. Pacific Islander enrollment has decreased by 7%.

The slight decrease in resident enrollment, coupled with potential federal policy changes that may affect nonresident students, is a concern. To address this, the college is focusing on expanding alternative access points for students, such as dual enrollment programs. Outreach efforts will continue to target underrepresented groups, particularly Latinx and Native American populations, to address concerns about safety and barriers to education.

Retention efforts have been successful, with recognition given to the team for their continued efforts to drive enrollment. The college also plans to adopt a standardized attendance accounting method in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This change will affect Full-Time Equivalent Students (FTES) calculations and is expected to increase FTES figures. This shift will provide further opportunities for growth.

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 academic year, the college is focusing on areas such as dual enrollment, non-credit programs, and short-term vocational courses to diversify its offerings. While traditional credit enrollment has been maximized, further growth will depend on exploring alternative offerings, such as weekend courses and flexible scheduling, to meet the needs of working students and underrepresented populations.

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Highlights from Report Out

Marybell Arebalo, the ACE VP, was introduced warmly, and although she could not attend the meeting in person, she joined via Zoom. Marybell expressed her gratitude for being part of the executive board and shared that she is honored to serve, despite being in the Child Development Center, where state guidelines currently limit her in-person availability. She hopes to meet everyone in person at a future opportunity.

Several key events were discussed, including the APASA Scholarship Ceremony scheduled for May 15th and the Black Graduation Celebration on June 18th. The Classified Senate Day is set for tomorrow, May 11th, at the De Anza campus, available both in person and via Zoom. 

The DALA Graduation is set for Friday, June 20th, at the Smithwick, and a Mother’s Day fundraiser hosted by DALA will take place in May, with further details to be provided.

The personnel request for the 2025-2026 academic year is due by April 30th. Members were reminded to contact the tri-chairs for questions to attend their office hours.

A special thanks was given to everyone who contributed to the Classified Professional Day, and appreciation was shared for those who helped with securing donations. Gratitude was also extended to the board for their support of the sanctuary campus resolution, which is especially meaningful to the community.

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Good of the Order

The Open House scheduled for April 26th is expected to have a successful turnout with numerous showcases. Communications staff and instructional teams have worked collaboratively on this event.

Dr. Torres proposed consideration for goal-setting for the 2025-2026 academic year be discussed at upcoming meetings, potentially starting conversations in May and June. The goal-setting process would involve surveying the College Council at the end of the year to assess progress, and this feedback would guide future planning for subsequent years.

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