Shared on behalf of KVCM, this episode of the Valley College Connection, this episode features President Dr. Barry Gibbons as he spotlights the college’s focus on access, equity, and student success for all learners. He discusses the expanding dual enrollment and Promise efforts that remove enrollment fees and help thousands of local high school students transition directly into college. Dr. Gibbons also offers a first look at transformative new facilities like the Valley Academic and Cultural Center, Valley Academic Hall, and Sage Hall, and explains how they support high-impact CTE programs and a vibrant on-campus experience.

In this episode—co-hosted by Dr. Alex Ojeda—we’re joined by Pamela Villaseñor, Executive Director of Pukúu Cultural Community Services, founded by members of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians. We explore how Pukúu advances Indigenous empowerment through culturally grounded community services and scholarships, housing initiatives for Native elders, and youth-led advocacy such as policy work around Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples. The conversation also highlights Indigenous Peoples Day, the purpose of land acknowledgments, and ways colleges like Los Angeles Valley College can honor Indigenous land, language, and culture through authentic partnership. If you’re interested in building lasting campus–community collaborations, this episode offers a clear and hopeful roadmap.

In this episode, we spotlight the Rising Scholars Program at Los Angeles Valley College, which provides guidance, resources, and a supportive community for students impacted by the justice system. Learn how the program is making a meaningful impact on our campus and beyond.

Shared on behalf of LAVC’s KVCM Radio show Way Out West, this episode features Los Angeles Valley College President Dr. Barry Gribbons as he reflects on current college initiatives, including the development of new campus buildings, and reaffirms his commitment to student success and long-term campus growth.

Join us on the Valley College Connection podcast for an inspiring conversation with Hpri "Rip" Geru-Maa, Office Assistant for the Umoja Black Scholars Program. In this episode, Rip shares his powerful journey—from growing up in a large family and overcoming personal hardships to finding his passion in education and mentorship. Rip discusses the importance of culturally relevant engagement, community support, and the transformative impact of programs likeUmoja. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on resilience, advocacy, and the role of education in shaping lives.

Dive into the inspiring journey of Professor Edgar Perez on the Valley College Connection podcast! Discover how he overcame challenges as an undocumented immigrant and rose to leadership roles at Los Angeles Valley College. Tune in for valuable insights on education, resilience, and community engagement.

Nat's work focuses on inclusion, connection, and empowering students to embrace who they are. Listen in as she shares highlights from her own academic journey and the vital role the Rainbow Pride Center plays in building community, supporting mental health, and fostering an inclusive campus for students and staff at LAVC.

Dr. Alex Ojeda's work at Valley College is focused on supporting current and former foster youth attending Valley College. Listen to his personal story and find out how his doctorate degree helped to open the doors that incarceration closed. Produced/Edited by Ozzie Flamenco

Sometimes when life provides you with opportunities, you need to drop out of school and grab them. How do you intertwine a career in performance with a commitment to lifelong learning? 0:59 – How did the discipline to become a state champion gymnast prepare you to be a professional musician? 11:16 – What jazz musicians inspired you? 13:39 – What is it like to play a gig? 18:40 – How did you get your first gig? 20:30 – Musicians need alternate streams of income. 24:58 – What are the character traits of a professional musician? 28:09 – What opportunities does a bachelor's or master’s degree create for a professional musician? 29:40 – What is commercial music? 32:48 – Always be ready to say, “Yes.” 34:46 – What was your worst gig? 36:04 – How do you practice piano? 39:38 – What music certificates and degrees does LAVC offer? Produced/Edited by Ozzie Flamenco Transcript

Learn how a career in respiratory therapy provides an inexpensive three-year pathway to a middle-class job that allows you to work anywhere in the US. Video of Graduating Respiratory Therapy Class of 2020 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGhL6UIH40U’ 3:19 – Working at Greg’s parent’s moving company. 6:34 – Words from an influential anatomy instructor. 8:14 – What is the application process for the respiratory therapy program? 17:25 – What does a respiratory therapist (RT) do? 22:24 – The LA Valley College respiratory program is a family. 23:32 – What are the two phases of the respiratory therapy program? 26:50 – What is the job market for RTs? 28:20 – What is one of the leading reasons why people die in the hospital? 30:32 – How much do RTs get paid? 35:09 – Does a bachelor's degree help if you have a RT license? 39:21 – What will the respiratory therapy bachelor’s degree at LA Valley College look like?