Graduates prepare to serve Ventura County communities through careers, continued education and community leadership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Community Colleges of Ventura proudly celebrates more than 5,000 graduates during 2026 commencement ceremonies
Graduates prepare to serve Ventura County communities through careers, continued education and community leadership
CAMARILLO, Calif., May 22, 2026 — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) this week celebrated the achievements of more than 5,000 graduates during commencement ceremonies held across its three colleges: Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College on May 20, May 21 and May 22.
The Class of 2026 earned a collective 4,768 certificates and 8,237 degrees, reflecting thousands of hours of academic study, hands-on training, internships, clinical experience and workforce preparation. Graduates will continue serving communities throughout Ventura County as educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, skilled technical workers, business leaders and community advocates.
This year’s graduates represent the diversity, resilience and ambition of Ventura County. Many balanced academics with jobs, family responsibilities and community leadership while pursuing certificates and degrees designed to open doors to transfer opportunities and high-demand careers.
“Commencement is one of the clearest reminders of why community colleges matter. The Class of 2026 reflects the very best of Ventura County, with graduates who balanced work, family, service and education while pursuing their goals,” said Dr. Rick MacLennan, Chancellor of the Ventura County Community College District.
“This moment belongs to our students. Their stories reflect the diversity, strength and spirit of Ventura County, and their success is a powerful reminder that when we invest in people, support them with care and lead with equity, entire communities rise together,” said Gabriela Torres, Chair of the VCCCD Board of Trustees.
As graduates prepare for the next chapter of their educational and professional journeys, the college presidents reflected on the significance of commencement and the impact of the Class of 2026:
“Our graduates reflect the strength, diversity and determination of Ventura County. Many are the first in their families to earn a college credential, and their success represents not only personal achievement, but expanded opportunity for families and entire communities. We are honored to celebrate them and all they have overcome to reach this milestone,” said Dr. Julius Sokenu, President of Moorpark College.
“As we celebrate the Class of 2026, we honor not only our students’ academic achievements, but also their perseverance, resilience and determination. Each graduate’s journey reflects the power of education to transform lives, strengthen families, and uplift entire communities. We are incredibly proud of our students and excited to see the impact they will make in the world,” said Dr. Cynthia Herrera, President of Oxnard College.
“As Ventura College concludes its centennial year, this graduating class serves as a powerful reminder of the institution’s enduring mission to expand opportunity and transform lives. We are proud to celebrate students who now join a century-long legacy of achievement and community impact,” said Dr. Luca E. Lewis, President of Ventura College.
About Ventura County Community College District
The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 116-campus California Community College system and serves approximately 30,000 students annually. The District’s three colleges — Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura — offer programs in general education for degrees and certificates, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, career technical education and provide opportunities to engage in co-curricular campus activities. For more information, visit vcccd.edu.
Media Contact:
Outreach and Marketing
Ventura County Community College District
communications@vcccd.edu