Contract Approved for New College of the Desert Superintendent President
Dr. Martha Garcia pledges to build on ‘culture of success’
At its regularly scheduled meeting today, the Desert Community College District Board of Trustees ratified the contract of Dr. Martha Garcia, who assumes the role as the new Superintendent/President of College of the Desert.
“Dr. Garcia is a proven leader who understands and welcomes the unique and diverse
needs of our students, and I am confident she will do great things at College of the
Desert,” said Board Chair Aurora Wilson.
Dr. Garcia most recently served as the Superintendent/President of Imperial Valley College, where she developed numerous government-funded programs to serve underrepresented students.
“College of the Desert is well known for its commitment and innovative approach to serving students. I am excited to join the College and look forward to building upon its culture of success and taking it to an even greater level,” said Dr. Garcia.
Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Garcia’s tenure runs through June 30, 2024. She will be the eighth president to lead the College in its 63-year history.
Dr. Garcia has been employed in a California community college since 1999 and has held several positions under student and academic services. She earned a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Counseling from National University, a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University, and an Associate Degree from Imperial Valley College.
A proud product of the community college system herself, Dr. Garcia hopes that her educational journey can inspire others.
“Education plays an important role in our society. My parents were farmworkers who didn’t speak English, and I was the first in my family to go to college,” said Dr. Garcia. “I hope students in the Coachella Valley can see themselves in me and know that anything is possible through education. It’s both a privilege and an honor to give back to these students and inspire the next generation of leaders.”
