President's Office

Reports to the Board of Trustees

Each month, President Kristina Whalen gives a report on college activities, honors and achievements during the regular meeting of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District Board of Trustees.

View Board Reports Archive

April 7, 2025 Board Meeting

AWARDS

Pauline Brown Wins Classified Employee of the Year 

Congratulations to our Classified Employee of the Year – Pauline Brown!  We’re thrilled to announce that Pauline Brown has been selected as the Foothill-De Anza Community College District Classified Employee of the Year! Nominated by her peers and chosen by senior leadership, Pauline is being recognized for her exceptional leadership, joyful spirit, and deep commitment to equity and student support.

Her transformative work at the BIPOC Center and partnerships with community organizations have strengthened our college’s ability to support vulnerable students and foster an inclusive campus community.

Thank you, Pauline, for being a beacon of empathy, integrity, and student advocacy. 

RECOGNITION

Umoja Students Travel to Ghana

The Foothill College Umoja Community just wrapped up its first week in Ghana. They visited the University of Ghana and a village to learn how Kenté Cloth is made, attended a Ghanaian wedding, participated in a drum and dance class, walked through the tree canopy in Kakum National Park, and had an emotional visit to the  Assin Manso Slave Market and “The Last Bath,” Then, the group saw the “Door of No Return” at Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle. Thank you to Brandon Younger, Dokesha Meacham, and Tiffany Rideaux for sharing this valuable experience with this year's Umoja Community cohort!

Next on Tap for Foothill's Experiential Learning Study Abroad Program — Kyoto, Japan Spring 2025

Laurence Lew and Eric Reed landed in Japan today for the start of 8-weeks of study dedicated to "Data Analytics for Social Good."

The program merges technology and business acumen with immersive cultural experiences. Courses taken will contribute to a Data Analytics Certificate, with a special emphasis on utilizing data analytics to foster social change. The program integrates practical data skills with rich cultural exploration, creating an unparalleled, interactive educational experience that equips students with valuable, sought-after expertise. 

EVENTS

March 21 • Adult Education Consortium Regional Convening

Thank you to AVP Teresa Ong for bringing together local adult education stakeholders to discuss expanding pathways incorporating dual enrollment under Assembly Bill 1122. The teams, including deans, faculty, staff, and local Adult Ed partners, are working to help more adult learners complete their high school graduation requirements and transition to college. 

March 18 • Empowering Voices – SLI Impact Team Poster Exhibition

Thank you to Sophia Kim and the STEM Impact team for organizing an inspiring exhibit showcasing student posters highlighting stories of underrepresented students in STEM at Foothill College. The campus community gathered in the 1900 Administration Lobby for a reception March 18 to learn about the stories of student journeys of breaking barriers and empowering future generations! Stop by the Administration Lobby while the posters are still on view this month.

March 14 • Los Alto Rotary Pasta for Vets

Thank you to the Los Altos Rotary, Stephanie Crosby, Richard Saroyan and the FHDA Foundation for hosting the March 14 Pasta for Vets event. The Rotarians raised more than $50K to help support our Veterans at Foothill.

STRATEGIC UPDATES

Another Milestone in Strategic Planning – Listening Sessions

The Foothill Education Master Plan team, led by Stacy Gleixner, met with local community stakeholders, including local K-12 leadership and Adult Education partners, business leaders, and community partners during multiple meetings in March.

INVITATION TO THE BOARD

April 9: Silicon Valley Venture Pitch & Panel, 5-8 p.m. in Dining Hall 

Get inspired by the latest trends in venture, technology, and entrepreneurship in the heart of Silicon Valley. Don't miss this opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights from successful professionals. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, this event is sure to spark your creativity and drive for success. Food and non-alcoholic drinks will be served. Moderated by Silicon Valley Impact. This is the second round from the Bay Angels Pitch event in January. Note: Event rescheduled from last month due to power outage on campus.

RSVP for Tickets

 

April 17: TEDxFoothill College • 6–8 p.m. • Appreciation Hall 

Join us in celebrating how small ideas and actions can create significant positive change. Students and staff will share their stories and ideas on how something small can lead to something big. We hope to see you there.

Register to Attend

 

May 3: Day on the Hill and Possible Self • 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

This annual community day will feature workshops on Transfer and Financial Aid, Campus Tours, and opportunities to register at Foothill in addition to an opportunity to meet faculty and staff. Possible Self will feature local companies, our faculty and staff, and colleges showcasing STEAM careers.