Foreword

Dear Merced College Colleagues,

As we settle into a new academic year, shaped by new rhythms and routines, I am reminded that Merced College is defined not only by excellence, but also by change—the kind of change that transforms individuals and strengthens our entire community. Change at Merced College is never just about one person; it is always “greater than me.”

In this issue, you will meet students like Eligio Villareal and Reza Aliakbar, whose journeys from our Adult Education and Noncredit classes to associate degree programs and beyond demonstrate that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and to create change that leads to growth and success.

You will also read about Sandi Goudy and Jagadeesh Bhimireddy, two members of our Information Technology Services team whose work and expertise have earned recognition at the state level. Their steady leadership in an ever-changing field is not just allowing Merced College to maintain secure and effective services for our campus community, but also helping other colleges to do the same. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and grateful to have them on our team.

Former Merced College baseball star Jo Oyama truly embodies the idea that proactive change can lead to positive growth. Undersized as a freshman, the Japan native transformed his body and built the strength he needed to become an MVP, and then to excel at UC Irvine and in the minor leagues. His blossoming baseball career is just getting started, and we can’t wait to see the next chapter of his story unfold.

Finally, I invite you to get to know one of our newest leaders, Dean of Innovation Kody Stimpson, whose work will help guide us as we explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence and virtual reality to support learning, outreach, and operations. His efforts underscore how embracing new tools and perspectives helps us change in ways that benefit every student.

Taken together, these stories remind us that Merced College is a place where people bring their best and become their best—and in doing so, they create change that is always greater than any one of us. Let’s embrace that spirit of collective transformation and celebrate the ways change makes us stronger together.