Campus Updates from Dr. Avila
Dear Gavilan Community,
As we approach the end of October, the semester has settled into its steady pace. Students are focused, classes are full, and the campus feels purposeful.
This point in the year reminds us how much depends on daily effort. Across the college, people are doing the work that keeps students supported, helping them stay enrolled, meet basic needs, and move closer to their goals.
It's also a good time to revisit the basics of campus safety. Our recent earthquake drill was a reminder that preparedness is part of caring for one another. Taking a few minutes to review emergency procedures, update contact information, and stay alert to our surroundings helps keep our community ready and resilient.
You can also download the free GavSafe App to quickly connect with security, request an escort, or access safety resources right from your phone. Android Play Store | Apple App Store
Thank you for the effort and care you bring each day. It makes a real difference in our students’ lives.
Warm regards,
Dr. Pedro Avila
LSRC Topping Out Ceremony
On September 22, Gavilan College celebrated the topping out of the new Library and Student Resource Center, marking a significant step forward in the project’s construction. Students, employees, trustees, and community partners gathered to sign the final steel beam before it was lifted into place. The event recognized the teamwork behind the project, from the planning and design teams to the construction crews on site each day. Once complete, the LSRC will serve as a central hub for student learning, connection, and support.
Employee of the month
Christina Salvin - June 2025
Full-Time English Instructor
Christina Salvin creates a classroom environment where every student feels capable and supported. Her work in the Writing Center and her dedication to student success reflect her deep compassion and commitment to learning.
Through her guidance, students gain confidence, skill, and a lasting belief in their own potential.
Thong Vang – July 2025:
Counselor/Coordinator, Higher Aspirations Program
In just over a year, Thong Vang has strengthened the Higher Aspirations program through innovation, organization, and care. He has expanded student access, streamlined processes, and built trust with the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students he serves. His leadership exemplifies Gavilan’s mission and values.
DEIAA Champion Award
Gavilan College was recognized with the DEIAA Champion Award at the annual Association of Chief Human Resource Officers (ACHRO) Conference. This honor celebrates the College’s successful cluster hire initiative and its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism.
The award reflects the hard work of the Human Resources team and the collaboration of our campus community. Together, we’re building a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.
Sustainability Resolution
The Gavilan College Board of Trustees adopted a resolution in support of climate change mitigation and environmental sustainability. The resolution affirms the District’s commitment to the California Community Colleges’ 2030 Climate Change and Sustainability Goals, which call for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding renewable energy, and advancing sustainable practices across campuses.
The resolution highlights Gavilan’s role in promoting responsible environmental stewardship and supports continued collaboration among students, faculty, and staff to expand sustainability programs, reduce waste, and integrate environmental awareness into college operations and learning.
Student Equity Plan
Dean of Counseling, Student Success, and Equity Diego Espinoza presented an overview of the developing 2025–2028 Student Equity Plan, which outlines Gavilan’s strategy to close equity gaps and strengthen outcomes for disproportionately impacted student populations.
The new plan builds on lessons learned from 2022–2025, guided by updated student data and a collaborative planning process that included more than 50 faculty, staff, students, and administrators. It focuses on enrollment, retention, completion, and transfer, emphasizing cultural humility, accountability, and community engagement.
When finalized, the plan will align with statewide goals and reinforce Gavilan’s commitment to equity and student success.
Dr. Nick Park Presents Sabbatical Research on Sexual Minority Parenthood
Dr. Nicholas Park shared findings from his Spring 2025 sabbatical project, which examined parental desires and procreative triggers among sexual minority parents. Drawing on interviews with 51 parents in California and Nebraska, his research explored how perceptions of identity, family visibility, and relationship dynamics shape decisions around parenthood.
Dr. Park’s work contributes to a deeper understanding of how social, cultural, and policy factors influence family formation and provides insight into how institutions can better support diverse parenting pathways.
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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