Following a nationwide search, Dr. Marilyn Flores has been named the next president of San José City College (SJCC).
“Dr. Flores is a distinguished educational leader with a proven track record of advancing institutions and improving student success,” said Dr. Beatriz Chaidez, San José – Evergreen Community College District chancellor. “After reviewing dozens of applications from a deep and diverse pool of highly qualified candidates, conducting two rounds of interviews, and virtual candidate forums, I’m confident that we have found the right leader for SJCC.”
A first-generation college graduate and second-language learner herself, Dr. Flores has held a variety of leadership positions over her more than 25 years of service in the California Community Colleges system, including, most recently, as Superintendent/President of Rio Hondo College in Whittier, Calif.
Before her role at Rio Hondo, Dr. Flores served as Interim President of Santa Ana College and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Santiago Canyon College. Her prior experience also includes serving as both the Chief Instructional Officer and the Accreditation Liaison Officer. Her administrative experience includes instruction and deanships at Santiago Canyon College and Las Positas College, as well as earlier leadership roles at Riverside City College.
“I am deeply honored to step into this role, and I extend my sincere thank you to the chancellor and board of trustees at SJECCD for providing me with this wonderful opportunity to lead San José City College,” Dr. Flores said. “I am honored to join an excellent team and to work alongside the students, faculty, and staff to support SJCC’s innovative work and ensure access, equity, and success for the diverse community we serve. Together, I look forward to building on the College’s strong foundation and advancing our shared mission with purpose and commitment.”
A Wheelhouse Fellow from UC Davis, Dr. Flores earned her Ph.D. in institutional leadership and policy studies from the University of California, Riverside. She also holds a master’s degree in education from UCLA and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a concentration in education and Spanish, also from UC Riverside.
While the SJECCD board approved her appointment as a trustee at its December 9, 2025, meeting, Dr. Flores is scheduled to assume her new role as SJCC president on January 12, 2026.
