Foreword
“We are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by sharing the stories of remarkable women who exemplify strength, perseverance, and dedication.”
Dear Merced College Colleagues,
March is a time to reflect on the contributions, resilience, and leadership of women in our communities, across industries and throughout society. At Merced College, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by sharing the stories of remarkable women who exemplify strength, perseverance, and dedication.
In this issue, you’ll read about four women whose hard work and expertise help keep Merced College running smoothly every day. They share insights from their careers, the mentors who shaped them, and the advice they offer to other women navigating their own paths.
You’ll also meet three inspiring alumnae who are giving back to the Los Banos community through careers in education—one as a professor at Merced College and two as educators in local school districts. Their journeys reflect the power of education in transforming lives and shaping future generations.
Another powerful story comes from alumna Gameelah Mohamed, who overcame intense personal hardships to rebuild her life through education. She now advocates for survivors of trauma, turning her own experiences into a source of strength and support for others.
And we are excited to feature a Q&A with alumna and head softball coach Suzanne McGhee, whose passion for sports and mentorship has shaped the lives of student-athletes on and off the field.
Beyond these stories, Merced College is marking Women’s History Month with special events that honor and empower women in our community. From discussions on leadership and mental health to moments of reflection and relaxation, these events remind us of the importance of supporting and uplifting one another.
This month—and every month—we celebrate the women of Merced College: the students, faculty, classified professionals, leaders, and alumnae who inspire us every day with their strength, enthusiasm, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Thank you for joining us in recognizing the incredible contributions of women at Merced College and beyond.
Sincerely,
Chris Vitelli, Ed.D. Superintendent/President
“This month—and every month—we celebrate the women of Merced College: the students, faculty, classified professionals, leaders, and alumnae who inspire us every day with their resilience, enthusiasm, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”