Chancellor Sonya Christian Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Board of Governors Member Gary Reed
Contact: Melissa Villarin
Office: 916-327-5365
Office E-mail: MVillarin@CCCCO.edu
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian today issued the following statement on the passing of former Board of Governors for California Community Colleges Member Gary Reed:
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Gary Reed, a longtime advocate for education and communities across the Central Valley. As a board member representing a rural area, Gary brought a thoughtful perspective to statewide conversations about expanding higher education access, supporting student success, and strengthening the role of community colleges in California’s smaller communities. His dedication to public service and the people he represented will leave a lasting impact. With his passing, we have lost a devoted leader, educator, businessman, and community champion.
“On behalf of the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family, friends, and colleagues. He will be missed.”
Gary Reed’s service to the Board of Governors began in 2005, when he was appointed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was reappointed in 2015 by Gov. Jerry Brown and served the California Community Colleges until 2018.
Reed also served on the Foundation for California Community Colleges’ Board of Directors, from 2009 – 2025, and continued to serve on the Foundation’s Investment Advisory Committee until August 2026.
Reed attended Porterville College, graduating in 1966 with an associate degree in business administration. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Fresno State and a master’s degree in school management from the University of La Verne.
The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation, composed of 73 districts and 116 colleges serving 2.2 million students per year. California community colleges provide career education and workforce training; guaranteed transfer to four-year universities; and degree and certificate pathways. As the state’s engine for social and economic mobility, the California Community Colleges supports the Vision 2030, a strategic plan designed to serve our students, our communities, and our planet. For more information, please visit the California Community Colleges website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).