Communication from the Chancellor
Publications
Chancellor Sonya Christian writes commentary to address key issues facing California higher education. These pieces typically highlight challenges such as access, equity, funding, and student success, while also proposing policy solutions and innovative practices. Through these writings, the Chancellor aims to influence public policy, share best practices, and foster dialogue among educators and stakeholders across the state.
Jobs for the Future
November 9, 2026
The Next Era of Apprenticeship: Building a New Pathway Through College
Co-author Maria Flynn, President & CEO, Jobs for the Future
Jobs for the Future
October 8, 2026
Access Is Not Enough: California’s Proactive Approach to Elevating Careers via Skills-Informed Degrees
Co-author Maria Flynn, President & CEO, Jobs for the Future
Hechinger Report
May 1, 2026
EdSource
December 21, 2025
Don’t fight veterans on earning college credit for their military experience
EdSource
October 31, 2024
California climate initiative could unlock new opportunities for community college students
CalMatters
May 10, 2024
The emerging California job industry that is AI-proof | Opinion
Lift Your Voice: Leadership Institute for Tomorrow
Issue #3
November 2023
Showcase of the voices of leaders who are shaping the landscape of education
EdSource
October 16, 2023
Community Colleges are Key to Solving California’s Toughest Challenges
Public Comment Letters
This collection features Chancellor Sonya Christian’s public letters, policy comments, and statements on issues affecting California Community Colleges, including workforce pathways, student success, innovation, and educational opportunity.
Comments on Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR)
in response to Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) Docket ID ED-2026-OPEPD-2542 (September 22, 2026).
Comments on Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization (AIM) Proposed Rule
in response to Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization Docket ID ED-2025-OPE-1042 (September 21, 2026).
Comments on OMB Proposed Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance
in response to OMB-2026-0034 (Uniform Guidance Rule) (July 7, 2026).
Webinar Series
System webinars are available in the Vision Resource Center (VRC) and are located in the Chancellor’s Office System Webinars section.
Featured Videos
In the Media
This collection of articles and podcasts highlight how Chancellor Christian has furthered the work of the California Community Colleges. The articles provide diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the state’s community college system and recognize her contributions to driving systemic change and fostering innovation.
Panels and Speaking Engagements
To the Field
2026 Veterans Day – Let me introduce you to Wesley Leon-Barrientos
Twelve years ago, I met a remarkable young man, Wesley Leon-Barrientos, a student at Bakersfield College.
Honoring the Heroes of the San Diego Mosque Tragedy
Today we honor the heroes whose courage helped prevent even greater tragedy at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
California Community Colleges Communication – Veterans Day 2025
Today, we pause to honor the veterans in our community – students, faculty, staff, and family members – who have served our nation with courage and commitment.
Supporting Our Students to Stay on Their Educational Pathway | Nov. 12, 2024
This last week, I received numerous messages from colleagues across our system and thought I would drop you a note.
Let me start by reaffirming that the California Community Colleges’ mission remains unchanged. Our colleges continue to be places of support and opportunity for everyone, including our undocumented students. Education empowers individuals to break cycles of poverty, shape their futures and contribute meaningfully to the world. Access to quality education must be universal, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can learn, grow and thrive.
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) | Nov. 10, 2024
It is a great time to be at the California Community Colleges.
The Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) initiative aims to recognize and validate the skills and abilities that have been gained by diverse learning experiences of our students and future learners, particularly veterans, apprentices, and working adults. By equating skills to college credit, we can accelerate progress toward degrees and certificates that align with industry needs. This effort will require unprecedented cooperation between our colleges, intersegmental partners, workforce agencies, labor unions, business leaders, industry, and community partners. You have heard me say over and over again that we are in the age of large-scale collaboration and cooperation.
Chancellor Christian Quoted
Below are some examples of Chancellor Sonya Christian being quoted in the media. Her comments reflect her leadership and commitment to advancing higher education in California.