California’s future workforce depends on colleges that deliver. To reach the State’s goal of 70 percent postsecondary attainment, California must educate 1,307,047 more adults within the next four years. Achieving that goal begins with access.
At the 2026 State of the College address, “Access in Action,” Cerritos College highlighted its commitment to turn access into success. The College continues to deliver on this purpose by expanding access to higher education, increasing opportunities to earn a bachelor’s degree, and strengthening workforce development pathways that prepare students for long-term career success. Cerritos College Board of Trustees President Dr. Dawn Green opened the program by emphasizing the College’s responsibility to deliver on its promises to the community, remove barriers, support students, and ensure meaningful returns on students’ investments in their education.
“Access means ensuring students get in, get through, and get ahead,” said Dr. Jose Fierro, president/superintendent of Cerritos College. “Higher education exists to create opportunities for social and economic mobility. Our role as a community college is to provide access points, not to remain complacent about barriers, and to continually reimagine how we can best serve our students and community.”
This year’s program focused on three key legislative initiatives developed by the college; each aimed at expanding access and strengthening student success. Building on the success of the Buccaneer’s Program, which increased CCCApply application completion rates by 66 percent and enrollment by 136 percent, AB 1636 will remove significant barriers in the college application process by automatically generating a student identification number and connecting students to support services earlier.
Cerritos College is also championing expanded access to bachelor’s degrees through AB 2136. The college is currently approved to offer two bachelor’s degrees: Dental Hygiene, launched in fall 2025, and the newly approved Field Ironworker Supervision program. AB 2136 would build on this success by expanding high-value bachelor’s degree offerings in automotive technology, paralegal studies, and public safety management, all aligned with critical workforce needs. Complementing these efforts, AB 2466 would expand access to paid work-based learning opportunities, including internships and apprenticeships.
Recognized as the #1 Hispanic-Serving Institution among California community colleges, one of the first Black-Serving Institutions in the state, Cerritos College offers the best Return on Investment in Los Angeles County. The college is committed to redefining access to education; it goes beyond simply opening doors to opportunities. Cerritos College fosters a culture of belonging, support, and achievement that empowers students to succeed well beyond their time in the classroom.
