Spotlighting Lieutenant Mike Jensen:
A Community Protector at Rancho Santiago Community College District
In May of this year, Mike Jensen took on the role of Lieutenant at Santa Ana College, bringing with him decades of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to community engagement. Jensen's journey to this position is one of passion, dedication, and a desire to make a difference.
Jensen's career path began in an unexpected place: finance. Despite finding success in the corporate world, he felt confined by the office environment. With a background in college sports, Jensen missed the camaraderie and team spirit that he had thrived on. "I wanted to help people," Jensen reflected. "I'm kind of shaped as a protector. I wanted to be part of the law enforcement team."
Not content with a desk job and seeking opportunities beyond his native Midwest, Jensen looked out of state for a new beginning. He found his calling with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, where he served for nearly 30 years. His dedication and leadership earned him the position of lieutenant for the Orange County Transit Authority. Even after retiring in 2018, Jensen's commitment to public service didn’t wane. He joined Santiago Canyon College as a sergeant, drawn by a personal connection—both of his children had attended the college.
At Rancho Santiago Community College District (RSCCD), Jensen quickly recognized that his role differed from traditional law enforcement. The campus, with its outstanding safety record and virtually non-existent crime statistics, presented unique challenges and opportunities. "The crime statistics here are basically nil. It’s a very safe campus, and obviously, that’s our first priority," Jensen explained. "But it’s nice to be able to take the next step where you’re just able to relieve the anxiety of the students when they come in with trivial concerns."
Jensen finds great satisfaction in addressing the everyday worries of students, such as parking issues. "A lot of these students stress over, 'Where am I going to park? Did my permit go through?' If we can put their minds at ease about that, they can focus on their classes and education," he said.
The opportunity to have a positive, personal impact on students' lives is one of the most rewarding aspects of Jensen’s work. "Now I’m able to touch a lot of lives in a more personal way instead of just in law enforcement where you show up, you handle the call, and move on to the next call," he shared.
With a vision for fostering a more welcoming and approachable atmosphere, Jensen has made community engagement a top priority. He understands that many students may feel uneasy around law enforcement, and he is committed to breaking down those barriers. "We need to be out there and be approachable to the students who feel uncomfortable around police," Jensen said. "If there’s something going on, they’re our eyes and ears. We can only be on campus so much. I need to instill a culture where people are comfortable just picking up the phone and calling us, even if it’s myself. I don’t have any problems giving out my personal cell number."
Jensen’s belief in the value of community colleges is deeply personal. Two of his children attended RSCCD colleges, and he sees the system as an excellent starting point for students' careers. "The community college system in California is awesome. There are so many benefits to it now," he said. "The four-year universities are basically almost pricing themselves out of the market. The community college system is a great way to start out; there’s no better place to begin your first two years."
Jensen’s pride in his children’s achievements reflects his own values. His son now works at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, following in his father's footsteps, while his daughter has built a career in the Air Force. Jensen’s story is one of a protector, a leader, and a mentor—someone who has dedicated his life to serving his community and creating a safer, more welcoming environment for all.
As we recognize First Responders at Rancho Santiago Community College District, Lieutenant Mike Jensen stands out as a hero who embodies the spirit of service and commitment to others. His impact on the campus and the lives of the students he serves is a testament to the difference one person can make.
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