The San Bernardino Valley College Foundation recently welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors. Sam Lucia and Robert Garcia both bring diverse and unique talents to the local community college system.

They are now part of a 23-member nonprofit 501(c)(3) foundation that supports San Bernardino Valley College students and academic programming in various ways. The board members assist with overseeing policy and operations. They also host fundraising programs for scholarships, and help promote awareness of higher education opportunities for the entire community.

Sam Lucia is deputy chief of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Mr. Lucia has served with the department in many capacities since he was hired in 1989. He is responsible for the Personnel/Information Services Bureau, which includes the Training Center, the Employee Resources Division, the Technical Services Division, the Desert and Valley Dispatch Centers, and the Records Division.

GarciaRobert Garcia is a lifelong resident of Redlands, and also a Valley College alumnus. From there, he served as a pilot in the Air Force from 1960 to 1981. Garcia, retired since 2009, holds a B.A. in History from the University of Hawaii and an M.S. in Systems Management from USC.

Beverly Powell, SBVC alumna and President of the SBVC Foundation Board of Directors, said she is excited to welcome both new members, who will actively further academic priorities for the students and the greater community.

“Sam’s outgoing and gregarious personality makes him a welcome addition to the Board, and his role as Deputy Chief for the San Bernardino Sheriff should allow the Foundation to enhance and expand on our long-standing relationship with Law Enforcement – including the Law Enforcement Academy scholarship program,” she said.

As a graduate of Valley College and now retired, she said Robert Garcia’s history of volunteerism and service with the Foundation also attests to his dedication to give back.

“He’s attended several Foundation events and recognized the work we’re doing, and just wants to help make a difference for students. Bob’s an alum and an Air Force veteran, and his perspective will be invaluable as the Foundation explores opportunities to serve our students,” she said.