Campus Updates from Dr. Avila
Dear Gavilan Community,
As we head into a new semester, I want to share some updates about the work happening across campus. These stories reflect your ideas, your effort, and your commitment to our students and each other. From new programs you’ve helped bring to life to projects moving us forward, there’s a lot to be proud of.
Looking forward to a great year!
Dr. Pedro Avila
Employee Scholars Pilot Program
The Employee Scholars Program pilot is moving forward with a $300,000 investment, thanks to all of your input. This program began as your idea and quickly became the most popular suggestion we’ve received. Now it’s becoming reality, opening new opportunities for professional growth and development across the college. Your voices made this happen, and we’re excited to see the impact it will have.
RANKED #16 IN CALIFORNIA FOR ROI - #5 IN BAY AREA
Last week, we were notified that Gavilan College ranked #16 out of 327 public and private colleges in California for return on investment. This ranking reflects our ability to offer students a low cost of instruction, help them avoid excessive debt, and prepare them for strong job prospects after graduation. Congratulations to everyone for the work that makes this possible.
2025 BEST EDUCATION PROJECT AWARD
Gavilan College’s Hollister Project has been recognized with the 2025 Silicon Valley Business Journal Structures Award for Best Education Project. This honor reflects the vision and hard work that went into creating a campus designed to expand opportunity and serve the growing needs of San Benito County.
The award will be presented at the annual Structures Awards on Thursday, September 11, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at the Marriott in downtown San Jose.
Culinary Academy Opening
We kicked off our Culinary Academy with Rebekah’s Children and Chef Carlos, joined by Dean Vins Chacko and our student services team. Students attended their first day, received an orientation, and learned about the many services available to them as Gavilan College students.
Construction and Facilities Update
You’ve probably seen the many construction and improvement projects taking shape across the Gilroy campus. The Library and Student Resource Center project is advancing. During the summer, a waterline replacement project started and is near completion. The theatre roof replacement is slated to begin soon. We’ll be sharing a more detailed facilities update, including progress on other projects, in a future President's Update.
Student Workers Pay Increase
At the June 10 Board Meeting, a new pay schedule for student workers was approved, an effort led by the Student Worker Committee, ASGC, and dedicated student representatives. Their advocacy, paired with leadership’s commitment to listening, is a strong example of shared governance in action.
Explore Updates from each area through the links below
Human Resources - Lucy Alvarez
Administrative Services - Marilyn Morikang
Student Services - Dr. Renee Craig-Marius
Academic Affairs - Dr. Moaty Fayek
Kind Regards,
Dr. Pedro Avila
Superintendent/President
5055 Santa Teresa Boulevard | Gilroy, CA 95020
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