Overview

Mariana Pacheco has officially joined the Cerritos College Board of Trustees after being sworn in by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia during the board's meeting on December 16. Pacheco, who represents Area #1, brings extensive experience in nursing education and administration to her new role.

Alongside Pacheco, other trustees were re-elected unopposed, ensuring continuity on the board. Pacheco expressed her commitment to enhancing educational access for students, particularly in light of ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic.

Key details

  • Mariana Pacheco was sworn in on December 16.
  • She was sworn in by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia.
  • Pacheco represents Area #1 on the board.
  • Other trustees returning for another four-year term include Carmen Avalos, Marisa Perez, and Dr. Sandra Salazar.
  • Avalos serves as South Gate's city clerk and teaches biology.
  • Pacheco has been the Director of Nursing for the VN, EMT, and Phlebotomy Program at Downey Adult School for six years.
  • Prior to her current role, Pacheco worked for 34 years as the clinical nursing director of outpatient services and employee health at LAC/USC Medical Center.
  • Pacheco is the mother of Downey Mayor Pro Tem Blanca Pacheco.
  • She emphasized the importance of providing resources for students to continue their education amid the pandemic.
  • Pacheco is eager to collaborate with fellow board members to support students and the community.
  • Trustees Avalos, Perez, and Salazar were re-elected uncontested.
  • Avalos was sworn in by South Gate Councilmember Maria del Pilar Avalos.

Context

The Cerritos College Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in overseeing the college's operations and ensuring that it meets the educational needs of its students. The recent election and swearing-in of Pacheco marks a significant transition as she brings her extensive background in nursing education to the board.

What happens next

As Pacheco begins her term, she will work alongside her fellow trustees to address the challenges facing students and develop strategies to improve educational access and resources, particularly in light of the ongoing pandemic.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding specific initiatives Pacheco plans to pursue or any immediate challenges the board anticipates are not confirmed.