Citrus College received an award in student success from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) on April 15 in Orlando, Florida. Citrus was the only community college in California to be recognized at this national award banquet among over 1,100 colleges. President and Superintendent Geraldine M. Perri was in Orlando at the Awards of Excellence Gala to accept the award on behalf of Citrus.
“I was really filled with a great sense of pride,” said Perri, “knowing that so many people who have worked so hard for so many years could be recognized and validated with this award.”
Back in Glendora, the award was celebrated on April 29 with a party in honor of the faculty, staff and students who contributed to the level of success that earned Citrus the award. Hayden Hall was filled with a cheerful spirit as people enjoyed food, drinks, Night Shift’s set and each other’s company. The awards Citrus earned were on display at the entrance in a glass case for everybody in attendance to admire and photograph.
“When I walked in this room today, I was absolutely joyful,” said Susan M. Keith, president of the Board of Trustees, “with Night Shift playing, with everybody gathering and seeing the award, and seeing everyone here—all representatives of the people who brought that award to us, it truly felt just absolutely joyful.”
Perri, Keith, Gerald Sequeira and Arvid Spor gave a round of congratulatory and grateful speeches and shout-outs before handing the microphone back over to Night Shift to keep the party going.
All four speakers attributed the ability of Citrus to achieve this recognition to the many programs that have been carried out aimed directly at student success. These contributions include the Promise Program, the I Will Complete College program, the introduction of Associate’s Degrees for Transfer and the Dual Enrollment program.
“So much of what we do is a team effort,” said Sequeira, “it’s not like any one group on campus is the only pivotal piece of what we do.”
After the round of speeches was complete, the music and the celebration proceeded into the early evening as faculty, staff, and students gave themselves some well-deserved pats on the back for their achievement.
