Cynthia E. Azari, Ed.D.. Courtesy photo.
CAMARILLO — Oxnard College President Cynthia Azari announced this week that she plans to retire June 30, 2019, to spend more time with family in New York and Southern California. Dr. Azari led Oxnard College beginning in March 2016 and has made an indelible mark on the campus.
Dr. Azari worked to increase dual enrollment, oversee renovation of facilities and classrooms, and expand student access initiatives and outreach to the Oxnard community. She has been a strong supporter of the 15 to Finishprogram that guides students through a two-year community college experience to successful completion for students taking at least 15 units every semester coupled with financial support. Oxnard College has seen an increase in numbers and successes over these past three years. Her leadership and commitment to the college and community have helped the college serve nearly 7,500 each year.
Ventura County Community College District Chancellor Greg Gillespie stated, “I appreciate Dr. Azari’s three years of service to the college and community. I wish her well in her retirement.” Dr. Gillespie will soon start the process to select an interim president and work with current college and district leadership during the transition.
About Oxnard College: Established in 1975, Oxnard College is a fully accredited California Community College (part of the Ventura County Community College District), providing 10,000 students a year with academically excellent undergraduate study and career technical education programs. Students may choose from over 60 educational disciplines, culminating in transfer degrees, associate degrees and certificates. Oxnard College has strong articulation agreements established with the University of California and California State University systems, as well transfer partnerships with private universities and colleges. Oxnard College is also home to some of the state’s leading athletic programs, including a championship soccer team. To learn more, please visit www.oxnardcollege.edu
About Ventura County Community College District: The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 115-campus California Community College system, and serves more than 32,000 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, please visit www.vcccd.edu.