President Contreras Embarks on Intensive Listening Tour of Campus & Community
On July 1, 2024, Dr. Gilbert Contreras officially began his tenure as the 15th President of San Bernardino Valley College. His arrival marks a new chapter for the institution, as he is the college’s first permanent president since 2021, when President Diana Z. Rodriguez ascended to the chancellorship of the San Bernardino Community College District.
Just days into his presidency, Dr. Contreras represented SBVC at its third annual Summerfest on July 6, followed by an official meet and greet on July 8, allowing him to meet many of his new colleagues at SBVC and discuss their mutual perspectives and aspirations for the college.
On July 15, Dr. Contreras undertook a detailed campus tour, meeting with instructional deans to better understand the academic landscape of SBVC. The tours and meetings with individualized groups continued throughout the summer, allowing Dr. Contreras to meet with practically every area of campus. In many of these initial meetings, he expressed his preference for an open-door policy and his intention to foster a culture of inclusivity and open communication within SBVC’s campus and community.
"I look forward to connecting with Valley College in meaningful ways," Dr. Contreras said. "It will take some time to visit every area, but I am excited about the journey and the opportunity to work together to advance our college."
