Foreword

Dear Merced College Colleagues,

As the academic year moves into its final stretch, April offers a moment to reflect on the many ways our campus community comes together to support students not only in the classroom, but across the broader experiences that define their time at Merced College.

In this issue of the Blue Devil’s Advocate, you’ll read about the evolving ways we celebrate student achievement. From new recognition events for certificate earners to celebrations for special populations, our college continues to find more inclusive and meaningful ways to honor the hard work of our students and the support of their families. These moments remind us that success takes many forms, and that each accomplishment deserves to be seen and celebrated.

You will also see how Merced College is extending its impact beyond campus through initiatives that connect our community to new opportunities. The recent completion of the Connecting Minority Communities grant represents a significant step forward in closing the digital divide, providing access to technology, training, and emerging tools like artificial intelligence for those who need it most. Efforts like these reflect our commitment to ensuring that progress is shared and that innovation remains accessible to all.

Our alumni profile highlights local teacher Jeff Rivero, whose work as an educator demonstrates the lasting influence of a Merced College education. By encouraging his students to pursue their passions and engage with real-world challenges, he is helping the next generation find purpose and direction in their own lives. His story is a reminder that the impact of our college extends far beyond our campuses and continues through the work of those we serve and support.

Finally, we invite you to get to know Professor Brandilyn Davidson, whose leadership in building new musical opportunities has brought students and community members together in truly meaningful ways. Her work reflects the creativity and collaboration that help define the Merced College experience and strengthen our sense of community.

Taken together, these stories reflect a simple but important idea that we’ve been emphasizing all year: Change is greater than any one of us individually (∆ > ME). Growth and success often happen through small, thoughtful changes, like how we celebrate students, how we serve our community, and how we create new opportunities for connection. As we approach graduation at the end of this month, those efforts come into focus, reminding us of the collective work that supports each student’s journey.