Rea has dedicated his life to championing education, health,
environmental issues and policy changes
(Santa Ana, CA) – The Rancho Santiago Community College District (RSCCD) Board of Trustees recently recognized Mr. Jose Rea for his contributions to the Santa Ana community and outstanding service to the Rancho Santiago Community College District. Mr. Rea was recognized at the April 29 meeting of the RSCCD Board of Trustees.
Mr. Rea served at UC Irvine for nearly three decades – initially in the Minority Science Research Programs for underrepresented students at UCI’s School of Biological Sciences; and subsequently in the university’s School of Medicine as the founding director for the Program in Medical Education for the Latino Community (PRIME-LC).
While Mr. Rea retired from UCI in 2016, his efforts within the community have remained strong. He utilizes his vast experience in higher education administration to volunteer in the non-profit sector … currently serving as the Executive Director of the ALMA (Aspire, Learn, Mentor and Achieve) Science Academy and Mentorship Pipeline which promotes STEM careers among disadvantaged youth. He’s also served on numerous boards and initiatives within Santa Ana, and, importantly, supports the Rancho Santiago Community College District as a current member of the Chancellor Search Committee.
“Mr. Rea has dedicated his career and his life's work to championing education, health, environmental issues and policy changes in the Santa Ana community and beyond,” stated Raul Rodriguez, Chancellor, RSCCD. “He is an advocate for social justice equality in the Latino community, and for immigrants, racial/ethnic minorities and economically disadvantaged populations.”
“I am honored to be recognized, but more importantly, to have represented the ‘voice of the community’ in the search for the next RSCCD chancellor. After all, as an immigrant and product of a community college myself, education has opened many doors for me throughout my life,” stated Rea. “We reside in a privileged county with so many opportunities and believe Santa Ana College and Santiago Canyon College can help ensure pathways to opportunities for our local residents.”
About Rancho Santiago Community College District
Santa Ana College and Santiago Canyon College are public community colleges of the Rancho Santiago Community College District, which serves the residents of Anaheim Hills, Orange, Santa Ana, Villa Park, and portions of Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, and Tustin. Both colleges provide education for academic transfer and careers, courses for personal and professional development, and customized training for business and industry.
From left to right: RSCCD Board Vice President Claudia C. Alvarez; Mr. Jose Rea and
RSCCD Board President Phillip Yarbrough
