Foreword

Dear Merced College Colleagues,

At Merced College, service is more than a value. It’s part of who we are.

Whether through military duty, public safety, education, or simple acts of support, our people find purpose in helping others. And as this issue of the Blue Devil’s Advocate reminds us, service is one of the most powerful ways to create change that is always greater than me (∆ > ME).

In this month’s stories, you’ll find students, alumni, and colleagues whose paths reflect that truth.

Veterans like Michael Herrero and Nicholas Rommel share how our Veterans Resource Center became a place to find community, rebuild confidence, and rediscover purpose after military life. Their experiences remind us that the strength found in serving others never fades; it simply takes on new forms.

We are proud to highlight three remarkable Blue Devil alumni who now serve in leadership and on the front lines of public safety in our region. Casey Wilson, the new Merced Fire Chief; Dayton Snyder, Police Chief in Dos Palos; and Monica Marrot, a proud new Gustine Police Reserve Officer. Their journeys demonstrate how education and training at Merced College continue to ripple outward, shaping the well-being of our communities.

You’ll meet brothers Nicky and Michael Newsom, whose family’s story spans geography and generations of military and community service, and whose return visit to campus last spring was a touching reminder of the lifelong bonds that begin here.

Finally, we spotlight Grace Perez, who supports our veterans every day as part of the VRC team. Her compassion and commitment reflect something we see day in and day out at Merced College—people who bring their best and become their best by helping others succeed.

This issue celebrates those who serve not for recognition, but because they believe in something larger than themselves. Their stories show that service, like change, is never about one person. It’s about what we build together, and how those efforts strengthen our college, our community, and our shared future.