College of the Canyons delivers an accessible, holistic education for students to earn associate degrees, certificates, and credentials, to prepare for transfer, and to attain workforce skills. The College champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and global responsibility, while providing clear pathways in an engaging, supportive environment where all students can successfully achieve their educational goals.
DR. JASMINE RUYS
Acting Superintendent-President
How can we best support our students and help ensure their success? That’s the underlying question guiding every decision we make at College of the Canyons.
Our team of faculty, staff, administrators and Board of Trustees is singularly focused on growing student access, strengthening student engagement on campus, and supporting continued student success. And, as you’ll read in this report that summarizes our accomplishments from the 2024-25 academic year, we continue to be successful in delivering the programs and services that help our students not only reach, but actually exceed, their goals.
Whether they are teaching in person or online, offering support services outside of the classroom, or managing the college’s behind-the-scenes operations, the people of College of the Canyons work together to create a campus culture that celebrates acceptance and support, and fosters student confidence, resilience, and the belief that they can achieve their dreams no matter the obstacles.
That commitment to service extends off-campus and into our community. College of the Canyons is well-known for its spirit of collaboration, and by working with local business and industry, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, we have enhanced the quality of life for our students, as well as for residents of the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond.
Our success is a collective effort, and we are so appreciative of the many partners, especially our generous Foundation donors, whose support and expertise have facilitated our accomplishments.
Thank you for your belief in us, and your continued partnership in helping us to create a college where students know they can find everything they need to achieve success.
With deep appreciation,
2,791 DEGREES CONFERRED TO THE 2,103 STUDENTS IN THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2025
$265,000 SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS AWARDED BY THE COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS FOUNDATION TO 242 STUDENTS
$14,141,668
GRANT REVENUE GENERATED TO SUPPORT INNOVATION AND STUDENT SUCCESS
$18,625,000
CAPITAL RAISED BY CLIENTS OF THE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER AT COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS
55.62 SECONDS TIME POSTED BY HAZEL RHODES TO WIN COC’S FIRST 400M STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN TRACK AND FIELD
2,103 Graduates in 2025
1,641 Associate of Arts/Science Degrees
Students Served
40,987
2024-25 Unduplicated Headcount
Attendance
1,150 Associate of Arts/ Science Transfer Degrees
2,555 Certificates of Achievement & Specialization
Median wage increase of students who completed career education courses 21%
Students By Ethnicity
Students By Age
INNOVATION & DISTINCTION
BSBP PROGRAM HONORED WITH STATE AWARD
Launched in January 2025, College of the Canyons’ Bachelor of Science in Building Performance (BSBP) program received the California Building Energy Modeling (CalBEM) Foundational Step Forward Award for its contributions to advancing building energy modeling. Hosted by Southern California Edison on behalf of the state’s investor-owned utilities, CalBEM promotes systemic solutions that support California’s climate goals. The BSBP program offers a cost-effective pathway to careers in highperformance building design, preparing students for Certified Energy Analyst exams, architectural licensure, and opportunities in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.
COLLEGE RECOGNIZED FOR STUDENT VOTING
COC EMPLOYEE NAMED 2025 CISOA RISING STAR
Hsiawen Hull, executive director of infrastructure and information security at College of the Canyons, received the 2025 Rising Star Award at the California Community College Chief Information Systems Officers Association (CISOA) Technology Summit for his leadership in advancing COC’s cybersecurity posture and statewide training initiatives. Hull has helped guide the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and other institutions in adopting security technologies, while also leading sessions on cybersecurity, vendor assessment, and safe tech purchasing. CISOA represents IT professionals across California’s community colleges, providing advocacy, training, and education.
College of the Canyons was named a 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, recognizing its commitment to increasing student voter participation. The college hosted 16 “Engage the Vote 2024” events to encourage civic engagement ahead of the November general election, led by the Center for Civic and Community Engagement, Intercultural Center, Engage the Vote Action Team, Associated Student Government, and NAACP Santa Clarita. The college also created voter information guides and candidate resources. ALL IN supports more than 1,075 institutions nationwide in promoting nonpartisan civic learning and democratic participation, with the goal of fostering informed, engaged citizens.
COLLEGE HONORED FOR PLACEMENT IN BLACK MATH SUCCESS
College of the Canyons was named a 2024 Champion for Excellence in Placement in Black Math Success by the Campaign for College Opportunity, recognizing its implementation of equitable course placement policies. Ranked No. 2 among California community colleges, COC achieved a 70.8% success rate of Black students completing transfer-level math within one year during 2022–23. The college modernized its math curriculum with credit support for courses from trigonometry to statistics and modularized developmental support through continuing education, supported by collaboration between Instruction, Student Services, and Institutional Research. The recognition highlights the college’s efforts to remove barriers, accelerate student success, and promote equitable access to higher education.
COLLEGE RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR ANTIRACISM PROJECT
College of the Canyons was one of 25 recipients of the 2024 Open Education Awards for Excellence, recognized for its Open for Antiracism (OFAR) project, which helps faculty use Open Educational Resources and open pedagogy to create anti-racist instructional materials and teaching practices. Co-led with the Community College Consortium for Open Educational Resources, OFAR received the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award. Launched in 2020, the project was developed to support faculty in making their teaching anti-racist while providing training and resources to do so.
PURCHASING DEPARTMENT RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
For the fourth consecutive year, College of the Canyons’ Contracts, Procurement, and Risk Management (CPRM) department received the 2024 Annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® (AEP) award from the National Procurement Institute, recognizing its innovation, professionalism, and leadership in procurement. Among 198 national recipients, the award honors organizations that excel in e-procurement, productivity, and adherence to public procurement standards. CPRM ensures all purchases comply with Board of Trustees policies, state laws, and competitive bidding requirements, safeguarding public trust and taxpayer dollars. The sevenmember team processed approximately $49 million in purchase orders, reflecting their commitment to fiscal responsibility.
COLLEGE EARNS ZERO ENERGY DESIGN DESIGNATION
College of the Canyons was one of only two community colleges nationwide to receive the 2024 Zero Energy Design Designation from the U.S. Department of Energy for its innovative Bachelor of Science in Building Performance (BSBP) program. The designation recognizes programs that go beyond basic building science education, preparing students to design and construct sustainable, energy-efficient buildings through advanced curricula and practicums. The first program of its kind in California, the BSBP program launched in early 2025.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
MANUFACTURING DAY INSPIRES LOCAL STUDENTS
Approximately 300 local high school students received hands-on introductions to the latest manufacturing technologies during Manufacturing Day. Representatives from companies such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Honda Performance Development were on hand at the college's Interim Advanced Technology Center to demonstrate technologies and share potential career paths with students.
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JOB FAIR CONNECTS APPLICANTS WITH EMPLOYERS
The college’s Employment Center hosted its spring semester Santa Clarita Job Fair to provide job seekers with employment opportunities in numerous industries and career fields. Organized in partnership with the City of Santa Clarita, JVS SoCal/ AJCC, SCV Economic Development Corporation and Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, the event featured nearly 100 employers seeking to fill entry-, midand upper-level positions.
ANOTHER SCV BOOK FESTIVAL ON THE BOOKS
The college hosted the second annual Santa Clarita Valley Book Festival at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center to promote the joy and power of reading and celebrate local authors. The daylong event featured more than 80 local authors, as well as information booths and literary workshops. All proceeds from the free event benefited the students and programs of the English Department.
VITA OFFERS FREE TAX PREPARATION SERVICES
The college’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offered free tax preparation services to qualifying individuals, including persons with disabilities and limited English-speaking skills. The VITA volunteer program is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and certifies business accounting students to work under the supervision of experienced tax practitioners and IRS agents to prepare tax returns.
COC HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL
The college hosted its third annual International Animation Festival (IAF) showcasing student animation from high school and college levels worldwide. With more than 500 submissions from more than 60 countries and no submission fee, the festival provided a platform for young animators to share their work, engage in cross-cultural dialogue, and gain recognition. Led by Dr. Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine, dean of International Affairs & Global Engagement, and Jeffrey Baker, animation program coordinator, IAF also fosters connections among peers, encourages discussions on global topics—highlighting climate change in light of recent Los Angeles fires—and inspires interest in the future of animation.
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EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE DEBUTS
On April 25, the college hosted the first annual Empowerment Conference at the University Center. The all-day conference featured a series of innovative workshops, resources, panels, and keynote speeches designed to enhance the academic, career, personal, and financial development of all members of the campus community.
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COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS HONORED ITS 2025 GRADUATING CLASS DURING THE COLLEGE’S 56TH ANNUAL COMMENCEMENT CELEBRATION ON FRIDAY, JUNE 6, IN COUGAR STADIUM.
• 2,791 DEGREES CONFERRED TO 2,103 STUDENTS WHO PETITIONED FOR GRADUATION
• 106 MAJORS REPRESENTED
• 827 STUDENTS EARNED TWO OR MORE DEGREES
• 880 STUDENTS GRADUATED WITH HONORS – 3.5 GPA OR HIGHER
• 127 VALEDICTORIANS – 4.0 GPA OR HIGHER
“KEEP YOUR FOCUS ON THE END GOAL AND JUST KNOW THAT IF YOU KEEP GOING ONE STEP AT A TIME, ONE DAY AT A TIME, EVENTUALLY YOU'LL GET TO YOUR GOAL, AS LONG AS YOU KEEP GOING FORWARD.”
–
Zoe Hollenbeck, who reached her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse after overcoming addiction and experiencing tremendous loss.
“THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO WILL HELP YOU. DON’T LISTEN TO THE NEGATIVITY. IF YOU WORK HARD AND BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.”
– Samantha Miranda Rodriguez, a two-sport student-athlete who earned an associate of science degree in fire technology and joined the ranks of 90,000 female firefighters in the country.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
FISCAL RESOURCES EXPAND SERVICES TO STUDENTS
By leveraging a diverse mix of funding sources—including state, federal, and private grants— the college continually expands and enriches student enrollment, programs, and services, all while maintaining a strong record of fiscal responsibility. Since 2002, it has earned the highest possible rating on 98 percent of its financial and performance audits, which evaluate the district, the College of the Canyons Foundation, and voter-approved general obligation bonds.
2024-25 Revenues
GENERAL FUND)
2024-25 Expenses (UNRESTRICTED GENERAL FUND)
2024-25 GRANT REVENUE
$14,141,668
$1,250,000 – REBUILDING NURSING INFRASTRUCTURE, CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES CHANCELLOR’S OFFICE
This grant will fund new simulation equipment and technology for students pursuing healthcare careers. Faculty will also receive professional development opportunities, learning vital skills for training the next generation of healthcare workers.
$200,000 – STATE AND LOCAL CYBERSECURITY EFFORTS, CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES (CAL-OES)
Funding will build upon and strengthen the college's existing cybersecurity planning and training efforts, ensuring it is prepared to identify and prevent potential cyberattacks.
$287,485 – OPEN LEARNING INITIATIVE, AXIM COLLABORATIVE
In collaboration with the Open Learning Initiative (OLI) at Carnegie Mellon University, the college will rapidly develop and deploy open courseware modules that train faculty to use generative AI in instructional practices. This adaptive courseware will improve student outcomes, resulting in more robust learning at reduced cost.
ACADEMIC INNOVATION
COLLEGE LAUNCHES FIRST BACHELOR'S DEGREE
College of the Canyons launched the Bachelor of Science in Building Performance program –its first bachelor’s degree – in January 2025. The program is an extension of the architectural drafting and technology associate degree program. The first of its kind in California, the 120unit degree prepares students for careers in high-performance building design, including roles as Building Energy Modelers, Building Information Modeling (BIM)/Computer Aided Design (CAD) technicians, or Sustainable Building Certification consultants, while also preparing them for the state-recognized Certified Energy Analysis exam. The program includes a projectbased internship to enhance job readiness.
AEROSPACE TEAM RECEIVES $300,000 NASA GRANT
The College of the Canyons Aerospace and Science Team (AST) received a $300,000, twoyear grant from NASA’s MOSAICS program to expand student access to research and career opportunities in science and space engineering. The funding will support mentorship for about 80 students, stipends for 40 student leaders, at least four NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory internships, and the establishment of an on-campus research and prototyping center. COC is the only community college to have participated in NASA’s High-Altitude Student Platform (HASP) for eight consecutive years. It also completed five RockSatX and three RockOn missions, most recently launching a greenhouse gas experiment aboard a NASA sounding rocket. The program partners with NASA JPL, Caltech, and other institutions to provide hands-on experience in astrophysics research and payload design, with past participants earning 137 scholarships and internships at NASA, Caltech, and aerospace companies.
TWO COC STUDENTS RECEIVE COOKE TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIPS
Students Daniel Begel (left) and Amir Erfan Shahla (right) were among the 90 community college students nationwide to receive scholarships from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation in 2025. The prestigious Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, which provides each student up to $55,000 per year for up to three years, is based on their academic achievements, unmet financial needs, persistence, and leadership qualities. Begel is transferring to University of California, Berkeley, to study electrical engineering and computer science, and Shahla will study biomechanical or mechanical engineering at Stanford University. More than 1,600 students from 212 community colleges applied to receive the scholarship. Aside from tuition aid, Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholars also receive comprehensive educational advisement, as well as opportunities related to internships, studying abroad, networking, and graduate school funding.
ACTOR MOJEAN ARIA LEADS MASTER CLASS FOR STUDENTS
Mojean Aria, an emerging Australian actor, talked all things film with College of the Canyons students enrolled in the Media Entertainment Arts program during an open master class on March 18. His oncampus visit included a public screening, Q&A session, and an acting and directing exercise with students. Recognized for his lead role as Jake LaMotta in “The Bronx Bull,” Aria also starred alongside Jason Momoa in the AppleTV+ original “See” and Antonio Banderas in “The Enforcer.” Aria is a recipient of the Heath Ledger Scholarship, which is awarded to emerging actors 18 to 35 years of age in memory of the late actor.
COLLEGE LAUNCHES CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENTIST PROGRAM
The college launched its Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) certificate program in fall 2024. Approved by the California Department of Public Health/Laboratory Field Services, the 24.5-unit program trains students to perform complex testing in clinical laboratories, preparing them for careers in the healthcare and biotechnology industries. Combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, the program allows graduates to earn a certificate of achievement in Clinical Laboratory Science and qualify for the state certification exam. The first cohort of 12 students was on track to graduate in fall 2025.
FINANCIAL AID ENABLES STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Financial aid continued to be a difference-maker for student achievement at College of the Canyons. In 2024-25, approximately 8,500 students received federal or state financial aid to pursue their academic goals at College of the Canyons. Collectively, the college administered $18.9 million in Pell Grants and more than $8.2 million of California College Promise grants to students. In addition, the college’s Foundation awarded $265,000 in merit scholarships funded by donors to 242 students.
EXPANDING ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR MILITARYAFFILIATED STUDENTS
The Veterans Resource Center served more than 600 military-affiliated students in 2024-25, a 7 percent increase over the previous year, with 22 percent more students using Veterans Administration education benefits. Military-affiliated graduates earned a 3.23 grade point average, with 30 percent achieving academic honors. The center also celebrated the strong start of its new Veterans Upward Bound (VUB)
STUDENT SERVICES
program, a federal grant opportunity that helped connect more than 70 veterans to academic advising, career planning, life skills workshops, and essential support.
CANYONS PROMISE STUDENTS CONTINUE TO EXCEL
Since its debut in 2017, the Canyons Promise program — which offers two years of paid college fees for eligible first-time, full-time students — has served 8,039 students and saved them more than $7 million in tuition costs. Canyons Promise students continue to academically outperform their peers. They have outranked other firsttime, full-time students in the areas of completion of transfer-level math and English in their first year (51% compared to 32%), fall semester to fall semester persistence (78% compared to 67%), and completion of a degree or certificate within three years (42% compared to 25%).
INSPIRE SCHOLARS AND NEXTUP PROGRAMS BEAT THE ODDS
The Inspire Scholars and NextUp programs, which serve current and
former foster youth, excelled at helping students earn degrees and transfer. Together, the programs celebrated 10 associate degree graduates who collectively earned 16 degrees. Additionally, nine students transferred to four-year universities. While national data show fewer than 10 percent of foster youth earn two- or four-year college degrees, the Inspire Scholars and NextUp programs achieved a 17.2 percent degree completion rate in just one year.
ON-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT BOOSTS STUDENT SUCCESS
By connecting students with oncampus jobs, the Volunteer Bureau and Student Employment department promotes campus involvement, which leads to increased retention and success. The department placed 484 students, including 137 who received Federal Work-Study financial aid, in various jobs at both campuses. The department also strengthens the college’s community connections by promoting on-campus volunteer opportunities, with 280 volunteers recruited.
FOCUS ON THE FUTURE
The college continued to modernize and upgrade facilities with funding from a variety of sources, including Measure E, the $230 million bond measure approved by local voters in 2016.
VALENCIA CAMPUS
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTER
The Advanced Technology Center (ATC) is the college’s flagship workforce development initiative to meet the growing demand for workers trained in advanced manufacturing and construction technologies. While an off-site interim facility has been handling a portion of this demand since mid-2023, plans for a much larger and more capable facility have gained significant traction. The Board of Trustees approved preliminary plans and an architectural contract to develop working drawings for a state-of-the-art 81,000-square-foot facility to be built adjacent to the parking structure on Rockwell Canyon Road. Those plans are expected to be submitted to the state’s architectural review agency in late 2025, with a decision coming approximately six months later. When completed, the permanent ATC will be able to accommodate a full complement of training programs in robotics, mechatronics, integrated advanced manufacturing, laser welding, milling and tooling, and CNC machining.
HEALTHCARE TRAINING PROGRAM LABS
Three classrooms in the West Physical Education building were remodeled to create labs for the new Physical Therapist Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant training programs.
BOYKIN HALL MODERNIZATION
Boykin Hall underwent a top-to-bottom renovation to bring it up to date with safety and architectural standards. Built in 1975 and one of the college’s first permanent facilities, the 26,000-square-foot science building was upgraded to meet seismic safety requirements and underwent a thorough replacement of all HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), electrical, plumbing, and data systems. The modernization was completed in late 2024.
ACCESSIBILITY UPGRADES
The multi-phase ADA Transition Plan ensures that all physical aspects of the college’s campuses comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Phase 3 – overall building and restroom access – is in progress. Already completed are Phase 1, which upgraded entryways and exits, and Phase 2, which ensured parking, signage, walkways, stairs, and ramps meet accessibility standards.
CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS
HEALTHCARE TRAINING PROGRAM LABS
Quad 3 modular buildings were renovated to create program-specific laboratories for two new healthcare training programs set to launch in fall 2025: Diagnostic Medical Sonography, which trains students for careers as ultrasound technicians, and Pharmacy Technology, which prepares students to work as pharmacy technicians.
WORKFORCE & ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT
The workforce and economic advancement division continued to drive regional economic growth by equipping students with in-demand skills and delivering customized training programs that help businesses and industries stay competitive.
LOW OBSERVABLE PROGRAM CONTINUES TO AIM HIGH
The Low Observable program, a partnership with Northrop Grumman, celebrated the graduation of its sixth cohort. This year, 13 students completed the training program and learned how to apply low observable (stealth) coatings used to make aircraft, sea, land, and space vehicles less visible to radar and other detection systems. To date, more than 70 graduates have entered the workforce, contributing their expertise to national defense efforts both in the U.S. and abroad.
UNIQUELY ABLED GRADUATES THRIVE
The Uniquely Abled Academy (UAA) marked the graduation of its sixth cohort. The CNC (computer numerical control) training program was recognized by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board as a “Top Performing” program in Los Angeles County after once again achieving an employment rate above 80 percent. To date, 14 companies have hired UAA graduates—an accomplishment that highlights the program’s growing impact and reputation for excellence.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING INSTITUTE SUPPORTS LOCAL BUSINESSES
The Employee Training Institute (ETI) successfully completed its seventh state-funded contract through the Employment Training Panel (ETP), securing $750,000 to provide ongoing
support for local businesses and industries. In total, ETI has obtained more than $10 million in ETP funding, strengthening the region’s workforce and helping employers remain competitive.
READY TO WORK PROGRAM EMPOWERS STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
In partnership with Carousel Ranch, the Ready to Work program continued its mission to empower students with disabilities through hands-on training and real-world experience. The program expanded partnerships with local employers in 2024-25, including Starbucks, Embassy Suites, COC’s Institute for Culinary Education café, Egg Plantation, and Salt Creek Grille.
2024-25 BY THE NUMBERS
2,110 clients/companies served
3,477 individuals served 760 entrepreneurs counseled
3,490 jobs created locally
$7,895,000 MILLION in client sales growth
$18,625,000 MILLION in client capital raised
CANYON COUNTRY CAMPUS
STEM EXPO SHOWCASES STUDENT PROJECTS
The College of the Canyons STEM Expo showcased outstanding research in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Hosted by the STEM Equity Alliance at the Takeda Science Center at the Canyon Country campus, the event exhibited a collection of academic and career-oriented projects undertaken by S-STEM Scholars in collaboration with faculty mentors.
PAUL WICKLINE NAMED CCC ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT
Dr. Paul Wickline, who has served College of the Canyons in multiple leadership and instructional roles since 2008, was appointed associate vice president of the college’s Canyon Country campus. A former associate vice president of instruction, Wickline led the expansion of the high school dual enrollment and inmate education programs, as well as partnerships with public safety agencies. He began his COC career as a tenure-track theatre faculty member, department chair, and producer, directing and producing numerous productions between 2008 and 2015. During that time, he helped expand theatre offerings and taught several classes at the Canyon Country campus.
MESA TRANSFER STUDENTS CELEBRATED
The MESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement) program celebrated the transfer of students to four-year institutions during a celebration dinner held at the Takeda Science Center at the end of the spring semester. Students will continue their studies at institutions such as Cornell, UCLA, Berkeley, UC Irvine, UC Riverside, San Jose State, Cal Poly Pomona, CSUN, and Loma Linda University.
OFTHE CANYONS COUGAR ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTS 10TH CLASS
ATHLETICS
The Athletic Department inducted the 2025 Hall of Fame class during its biennial Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center. Honored were Greg Herrick — Head Coach, Women's Basketball (1992-2022); Ruby Herrera — Softball, 2010 & 2012 All-American; Corey Honeycutt — Women's Track & Field, 2010 State Champion (800m); Carlton Spencer — Men's Basketball, 2004 & 2005 Western State Conference Player of the Year; 2010 State Runner-Up Men's Soccer Team.
CANYONS GOLF PROGRAMS
CLAIM THREE MORE STATE TITLES
The men’s and women’s golf programs combined to bring home three state titles (one team and two individual) during the 2024-25 campaign. In the fall, freshman Sahya Kitabatake won the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) women's golf individual state championship with a two-day score of one-over par (143-73/70) at Monarch Dunes Golf Club in Nipomo. The men’s team claimed its second straight 3C2A team state championship during a 36-hole tournament at the Bayonet Golf Course in Seaside. The Cougars shot a team score of 762 (376/386) to finish three shots ahead of runner-up Reedley College. The title is the program’s 12th overall. Canyons freshman Carson Diaz clinched the 3C2A men’s individual state championship after winning a playoff hole.
HAZEL RHODES RUNS TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN 400M
Freshman Hazel Rhodes stamped her name in the Cougars' track & field history book by winning the individual 3C2A State Championship in the 400m and earning Junior College All-American honors. Rhodes posted a season-best time of 55.62 to win the state title, edging out the reigning Southern California regional champion to become the college’s first state champion in the 400m event. The Saugus High grad is the third individual state champion in women's track & field program history, and the 10th for Canyons track & field all time.
CONFERENCE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR
Tyrell Brown
Southern California Football Association National Division, Northern League Defensive Player of the Year
Sahya Kitabatake
Western State Conference Women’s Golf Player of the Year
Victoria Martinez
Western State Conference Women’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Year
Hazel Rhodes
WSC Female Track Athlete of the Year
Ethan Posthumus
Western State Conference Men’s Golf Player of the Year
ALL-STATE SELECTIONS
A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE CONTINUED
Canyons claimed team conference championships in: Women’s Cross Country, Women’s Volleyball and Men’s Golf, with individual student-athletes also combining to bring home six more individual conference titles: Antonio Moore, 110H & 400H — Men’s Track & Field; Monique Fulling, 100H & 400H — Women’s Track & Field; Ethan Posthumus — Men’s Golf; Sahya Kitabatake — Women’s Golf.
The Cougars also saw seven programs – men’s cross country, women’s cross country, football, men’s golf, women’s soccer, softball, and women’s volleyball – qualify for postseason competition in 2024-25. Men’s cross country, women’s cross country, and men’s golf advanced to the state championships. Women’s golf, men’s track & field, women’s track & field and women’s tennis saw individual student-athletes compete at state championship events.
Victoria Jamison Women’s Cross Country
Carson Diaz Men’s Golf
Ethan Posthumus Men’s Golf
Sahya Kitabatake Women’s Golf
Luis Rodriguez Football
Tyrell Brown Football
Cain Omuhundro Football
Dylan Flowers Football
Duhron Goodman Football
ALL-AMERICAN HONOREES
Victoria Jamison Women’s Cross Country
Luis Rodriguez (K) Football
Antonio Moore (110h) Men’s Track & Field
Hazel Rhodes (400m) Women’s Track & Field ALLCONFERENCEHONOREES 107
COUGARS GRADUATE TO NEXT LEVEL
The 2025 graduating class included more than 110 student-athletes who achieved a combined GPA above 3.38 and earned associate degrees and/or transferred to four-year institutions. They represent 15 of the college’s 17 intercollegiate athletic programs, and nine were dual-sport student-athletes.
COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS FOUNDATION
“Supporting students on their educational journey is incredibly meaningful to me. It was John’s wish and our way of leaving the world a better place...as far as I’m concerned, that’s the price of admission.”
- Karen Donato
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DESIGNERS
John Turturro changed lives through the power of design. For 12 years, the award-winning architect didn't just teach at COC— he inspired. As a mentor, he led students to championship victories and laid the groundwork for a thriving Architecture and Interior Design program. Following John’s passing in 2024, his wife Karen Donato honored his legacy with a transformative gift. Her generosity established the John Turturro Memorial Scholarship and named the John Turturro Design Lab on campus— ensuring his passion continues to shape future designers. Since opening in spring 2025, the lab has become a haven for students looking to express their creativity in a myriad of ways: 3D printing, architectural design, and the use of cutting-edge technology.
A POWERFUL REMINDER
MARLEE LAUFFER NAMED SILVER SPUR HONOREE
The College of the Canyons Foundation proudly hosted its 33rd Annual Silver Spur Celebration at The Langham Huntington in Pasadena, where Marlee Means Lauffer was honored with the 2025 Silver Spur Award for her commitment to the Santa Clarita Valley and her continued support of College of the Canyons. As the Foundation’s highest honor, the Silver Spur Award is given annually to an individual who has advanced the mission of College of the Canyons and benefitted the community. In her decades of service to the Santa Clarita Valley, Lauffer has done just that, shaping the growth of local institutions and uplifting countless lives through her philanthropic and civic leadership.
In bringing together scholarship recipients and the donors who made their dreams possible, the Foundation’s annual Scholarship Awards Celebration in May 2025 created a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of education. Guests shared dinner and meaningful conversations, with donors and students seated side by side, bonding over shared hopes and humble beginnings. The 2025 scholarship program provided 242 students with more than $265,000 in merit scholarships.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Dr. Edel Alonso • Mr. Fred Arnold • Dr. Carlos R. Guerrero • Ms. Sharlene Johnson • Ms. Darlene Trevino