The Santa Ana College Foundation (SACF) is excited to announce the appointment of a new slate of officers for the 2024-2025 term. This leadership transition is a critical moment for the Foundation as it embarks on new initiatives and strategic planning following the successful completion of a three-year, $6 million comprehensive campaign.
Introducing Our New Board Officers
Leading the SACF as the new board president is David Valentin, former chief of police for the city of Santa Ana and a proud Santa Ana College alumnus. David, who participated in the Puente learning community program, reflects on this full-circle moment, saying, "It is an honor to lead the Santa Ana College Foundation. As an alumnus, I am deeply committed to advancing the college's mission and ensuring our students have the resources they need to succeed. Our diverse board exemplifies servant leadership, and we are poised to make a significant impact."
Joining David is Vice President Teresa Gonzalez-Anaya, director of Customer Marketing & Sales Promotions and Events at Northgate Gonzalez Markets. Teresa shared, "I am excited to serve as vice president and work alongside a dedicated team. Our collective efforts will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the future of Santa Ana College."
Yareiry Alba, another proud Santa Ana College alumnus and a senior project manager at Elevance Health, is the new secretary. Ed Halverson, a certified public accountant, continues his role as treasurer, providing steady financial oversight and guidance.
The SACF is also pleased to introduce two new senior advisors, Mark McLoughlin, president of High School Inc. Academies Foundation and Ken Purcell, National Vice President of Sales (Retired) First American Title. Their extensive experience and leadership will be crucial as the board navigates new projects and opportunities.
Board Members
Other notable board members include:
- Alex Barrera, senior director of Education & Facilities, Cordoba Corporation
- Lewis Bratcher, retired administrator Santa Ana Unified School District
- Alberta D. Christy, retired business officer Citibank
- Dennis Farrell, commissioner (retired), Big West Conference
- Juan Gonzalez, manager of Public Affairs, SoCal Gas
- Madeline Grant, faculy, Business Division, Santa Ana College
- Jose A. Hernandez, owner & attorney, Law Office of Jose Alfredo Hernandez, APC
- Jena Jensen, vice president, chief advocacy & public policy officer, CHOC Children's
- Ignacio A. Muñiz, principal, Santa Ana Unified School District
- Jayne C. Munoz, adjunct faculty, English
- Ramiro Ochoa, vice president, Business Development, Westport Properties, Inc.,
- Fortino Rivera, CEO, Staffing Solutions
- Christina Romero, executive director, College Advancement & Foundation, Santa Ana College
- Sam Ruiz, business owner & founder, Café Cultura, Euro Caffe
- Dan Stefano, fire chief, city of Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue
- Dr. Annebelle Nery, Santa Ana College president
Strategic Vision and New Initiatives
The Foundation is at a pivotal juncture. Over the next few months, the board will assess the successes of the recent campaign, evaluate the initiatives that have benefited students, and strategize on future goals to ensure the college's continued prosperity. The successful completion of the $6 million comprehensive campaign is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the board and the generous support of donors.
Dr. Annebelle Nery, president of Santa Ana College, stated, "We are embarking on a new chapter for the Santa Ana College Foundation (SACF). With this new leadership team, we are well-positioned to advance our mission and support our students in innovative ways. I'm excited about the new goals which will elevate our community for years to come."
Looking ahead, the SACF is excited to announce several upcoming projects, including the launch of a new website before the end of 2024 and new scholarship marketing opportunities designed to leverage the generous contributions of donors. The SACF is also proud to have received the CASE Bronze Microsite Award, recognizing excellence in digital communications.
The Santa Ana College Foundation remains dedicated to fostering a legacy of excellence and diversity. This new slate of officers is ready to lead the charge in achieving the Santa Ana College Foundation's strategic objectives and ensuring the continued growth and success of Santa Ana College.
For more information, please contact the SACF office at (714) 564-6091.
About Santa Ana College:
Santa Ana College (SAC), founded in 1915, serves more than 54,600 students yearly. At present, SAC students can work toward completing an associate degree, university transfer, career/workforce training or a bachelor's degree in occupational studies. As part of Santa Ana College, the School of Continuing Education located at Centennial Education Center offers free classes throughout the community for adults of all ages and academic backgrounds. Santa Ana College is an award-winning college and was recently ranked as one of the nation's top two-year colleges awarding associate degrees to Latino and Asian students and named one of the best community colleges in California by Intelligent.com. The college is also recognized throughout the state for its comprehensive workforce training programs for nurses, firefighters, law enforcement and medical personnel. Santa Ana College is one of two comprehensive colleges under the auspices of the Rancho Santiago Community College District.
