Tag: Allan Hancock College

Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees place local funding measure on November 2026 ballot

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees voted unanimously June 16 to place a local facilities funding measure on the November 3, 2026, ballot, allowing voters throughout the Allan Hancock Joint Community College District to consider whether to authorize funding for repairs, upgrades and modernization projects at the college’s facilities.

If approved by voters, the measure would authorize up to $290 million in locally controlled general obligation bonds to improve and modernize projects at Allan Hancock College locations throughout the district.

Bilingual report — Couple celebrates 20 years of learning together through Allan Hancock College’s Community Education Art Classes

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — For the past 20 years, Nick and Deborah Carpenter have shared a tradition that has become an important part of their lives: taking Community Education art classes together at Allan Hancock College.

Over two decades, the couple has explored a variety of creative pursuits through the college’s tuition-free art offerings, developing new skills while building lasting memories. Among their most meaningful projects were creating the rings they later exchanged on their wedding day.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts EMS and Paramedics graduations

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated a new group of graduates from its emergency medical services and paramedicine academies May 29.

The college hosted two separate ceremonies for both programs at its Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.

“Today marks the culmination of their dedication, sacrifice and hard work,” Hancock EMS and Paramedicine Coordinator Sean Newton said. “They are ready to serve their communities with skill and compassion.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrates graduates at 2026 commencement ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of 1,196?graduating students at the college’s 105th?commencement?ceremony.

“No matter what path brought you to this moment, you should be proud of what you have accomplished,” Hancock Board of Trustees President Hilda Zacarias said to the more than 600 graduates who participated in the May 22 ceremony, which took place on the college’s athletics field at its Santa Maria campus. “Wherever your path leads, know that you leave here with knowledge, experience, confidence, and the ability to create opportunity for yourselves and for others.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College unveils new interactive art installation by Emerita Nancy Jo Ward

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the unveiling of “IllumiNation,” a new large-scale interactive art installation created by Fine Arts Professor Emerita Nancy Jo Ward, during a special ceremony held May 19 inside the college’s Fine Arts Complex.

Installed on the second floor of the Fine Arts Complex near Room 209, the immersive piece uses light, color, motion, and abstract forms to transform the hallway into a dynamic artistic environment that invites reflection and interaction.

“I wanted it to feel like a form of communication or language,” Ward said. “Something that invites curiosity and creates a calming, welcoming space for people.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 16 retiring faculty and staff

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — On May 20, Allan Hancock College honored the dedication and service of 16 retiring faculty and staff members during a heartfelt ceremony that celebrated decades of contributions to student success.??

?This year’s retirees, who contributed a combined 323 years of service to the college, include full and part-time faculty members, classified staff and other employees from the college’s many programs and departments.

“Our retiring employees have devoted years of talent, care, and hard work to supporting our students and strengthening this college community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Their influence can be seen not only in the programs they helped build, but in the countless lives they impacted along the way.”

Allan Hancock College celebrates 2026 Transfer stars

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the 2026 graduates who will continue their education at four-year universities at its annual University Transfer Stars Celebration on May 15 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

Hosted each year by Hancock’s University Transfer Center, the event allowed Hancock’s transfer students to celebrate their achievements with their friends and family as they prepare for a new chapter in their educational journeys. More than 200 “transfer stars” were invited to this year’s celebration.

Participating students, many wearing apparel from their respective universities, received a commemorative?transfer?medallion, took photos with their soon-to-be university peers, and listened to messages of support from Hancock staff and their fellow?transfer?students.

Early College Program helps Orcutt Academy High School (OAHS) students graduate with college degrees from Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — This spring, a group of Orcutt Academy High School (OAHS) seniors will achieve something few high school students can claim: graduating with associate degrees from Allan Hancock College while completing high school.

The students are part of the first cohort in Orcutt Academy’s Early College Cadre (ECC) program, which allows students to complete college-level coursework while earning high school diplomas. This year, 26 students from the program are expected to participate in Hancock’s commencement ceremony on May 22, marking the culmination of four years of rigorous academic work.

Launched in 2022 through a partnership between Hancock and OAHS, the ECC program allows students to complete a 60-unit associate degree pathway during grades 9-12. The program includes a combination of concurrent enrollment classes taught during the school day at OAHS, college coursework offered before the school day at OAHS and summer classes at Hancock.

Bilingual report — Registration underway for Allan Hancock College’s annual Women’s Fire Camp

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invites women ages 15-25 to get a first-hand look at life as a firefighter at Hancock’s annual Women’s Fire Camp. The camp will be held May 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

Women who sign up for this event will work with staff from Hancock’s fire technology program and the college’s state-certified Fire Academy. Several female Hancock College Fire Academy graduates, who are now professional firefighters, will be on hand to share their knowledge and experience. Participants will take part in various team-building exercises and hands-on training with the techniques and equipment used by firefighters.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors noncredit students at recognition ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of its noncredit students at its annual Noncredit Recognition Ceremony May 1 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The celebration, held in Boyd Concert Hall, highlighted the perseverance and accomplishments of students who completed noncredit certificate programs, including family childcare license preparation, commercial truck driving and income tax preparation. The ceremony also recognized students who completed English Language Development (ELDN) courses, earned their GED Equivalency Certificate or achieved U.S. citizenship through the college’s noncredit offerings. More than 426 certificates were completed in noncredit programs at Hancock during the 2025–2026 academic year.

“Noncredit programs are essential to ensuring that education remains accessible to everyone in our community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “These students are a powerful example of what can be achieved when opportunity meets determination.”

Bilingual report — Former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera to visit Allan Hancock College for reading and workshop

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College will welcome acclaimed poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera for a special poetry reading and community zine workshop April 24 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus.

The free event, which is open to the public, will offer attendees the opportunity to hear from one of the nation’s most influential literary voices and participate in a collaborative, hands-on creative workshop.

Herrera, the son of farmworkers, was born in Fowler, California, and has spent more than five decades shaping American poetry through his writing, teaching, and community engagement. He served as Poet Laureate of the United States from 2015 to 2017, becoming the first Mexican American to hold the position, and previously served as California’s Poet Laureate.

Santa Barbara duo wins international competition, Allan Hancock College faculty among winners

by Community Contributor • March 27, 2026 • Comments Off

Click here for the entire media release en español SANTA MARIA — An Allan Hancock College piano faculty member is taking her talents to one of the world’s most prestigious stages after winning an international music competition with a fellow…

Bilingual report — Cloverlane Foundation funds new ‘Jaws of Life’ for Allan Hancock College Fire Academy

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2026 • Comments Off

“This investment by the Cloverlane Foundation will make a real difference in how we prepare students for the field,” said Fire Academy Coordinator Leonard Champion. “Access to professional-grade equipment like this elevates the quality of our program and gives our students a meaningful advantage when they enter the workforce.”

Allan Hancock College announces line up for Spring concerts

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting the community to enjoy a series of live musical performances this spring featuring student musicians, faculty artists, and special guest performers in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus.

These performances are open to the public on the following dates, times, and locations:

Allan Hancock College’s Fine Arts Faculty Show now on Feb. 9 through March 12

by Community Contributor • January 27, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s Fine Arts faculty are showcasing a wide range of creative work during the Fine Arts Faculty Show, on view February 9 through March 12 at the Ann Foxworthy Gallery on the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The exhibition features work by Hancock’s Fine Arts instructors across multiple disciplines and media, highlighting the depth and diversity of creative practices shaping contemporary art today. An opening reception will be held February 11 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.

“Our Fine Arts faculty are accomplished artists and dedicated educators who model what it means to engage with art as a lifelong practice,” said Elizabeth Russell, Foxworthy Gallery co-director. “This exhibition gives our community the opportunity to experience the breadth of ideas, materials, and approaches our faculty bring to both their studios and their classrooms.”

Allan Hancock College kicks-off Spring 2026 classes

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College welcomed thousands of students back to campus this week as spring 2026 classes began January 20 at the college’s Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center.

Both campuses were buzzing with activity as students arrived for the first week of the semester. More than 10,800 credit and noncredit students enrolled in spring classes at Hancock, a 7% increase from the 2025 spring semester.

“Our staff and faculty are excited welcome students to campus for spring classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our students come to Hancock with big goals, and we are committed to providing the support, guidance, and resources they need to succeed from day one.”

Bilingual report — July 28; Aug. 3, 10 — Allan Hancock College offering free Bulldog Express enrollment workshops

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2026 • Comments Off

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Allan Hancock College celebrates Nursing and EMT Program graduations in Lompoc

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College celebrated a new crop of first responders and healthcare workers as a combined 137 individuals graduated from the college’s fire, emergency medical technician (EMT), and nursing programs on Dec. 11 and Dec. 12.

The fire and EMT academy graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc, while the nursing graduation took place at the Marian Theatre on the college’s Santa Maria campus.

A total of 30 cadets graduated from the fire academy on Dec. 11, marking the end of a rigorous 18-week program consisting of 624 hours of classroom and field instruction. Before the ceremony, the cadets gave a live demonstration of the skills they learned at the academy, including running fire hoses, dousing burning cars and extricating “victims” from vehicle wrecks outside the PSTC’s burn tower.

Bilingual report — Single-Parent Allan Hancock College students receive free Thanksgiving meals

by Community Contributor • November 25, 2025 • Comments Off

provided students who are single parents with a?turkey?and other Thanksgiving meal items free of charge.

A total of 105 individuals and families stopped by the Hancock EOPS+ program’s Fall Harvest Turkey Giveaway booth outside the college’s Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center on Nov. 25, where Hancock staff provided them with everything needed to prepare a Thanksgiving meal. The packages included a?turkey, potatoes, beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, stuffing, pumpkin pie, whipped cream, and butter. Turkey?preparation and cooking instructions were also included.?

Cash for College 2-day event (Nov. 19-20) travels to Paso Robles High School to assist students with financial air applications

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

The event will provide seniors from Paso Robles, Liberty and Independence high schools with hands-on support to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act applications before the upcoming priority deadline.

Bilingual report — Registration open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting new and returning students to register now for winter and spring 2026 classes, which offer hundreds of opportunities to earn a degree, transfer to a university, gain job skills or explore new interests.

Open registration for both terms began Nov. 6, with classes available in a wide range of subjects and flexible formats across Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, Lompoc Valley Center, and online. Winter session classes begin Dec. 15, and spring semester classes start Jan. 20.

“Winter and spring are great times for students to stay on track, get ahead, or start something new,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We want our students to know that Hancock is here to help them earn a degree, train for their career or continue their education by transferring to a university.”

Retired Allan Hancock College instructor Nancy Jo Ward selected for XV Florence Biennale

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Retired Allan Hancock College Graphic Design Professor Nancy Jo Ward has been selected to exhibit her mixed-media work at the XV Florence Biennale in Florence, Italy, Oct. 18–26, 2025.

Ward, who recently concluded 27 years of service at Hancock, will present three works— titled Anna-Louise, Katerina and Selia—at the prestigious international exhibition. Her invitation places her among an international roster of more than 500 artists and designers more than 80 countries.

Ward’s practice blends digital technology with traditional materials to explore psychological portraiture, memory, identity and the aesthetics of post-internet culture, an approach that aligns with the Biennale 2025 theme, “The Eternal Union Between Light and Darkness.”

Bilingual report — Application deadlines near for Hancock’s BSN Pathway and EMT Program

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is helping local students and healthcare professionals take the next step in their careers with two upcoming program application deadlines — including the college’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pathway, developed in partnership with California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI), and the spring 2026 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) academy.

Allan Hancock College English instructor publishes new thriller novel ‘Sea of Glass’

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College adjunct English instructor Patrick Shattuck has published his latest novel, Sea of Glass, a contemporary thriller infused with elements of magical realism.

The book tells the story of Shannon Delaney, a teenager overshadowed by her brilliant twin sister and caught in a web of secrets, shifting loyalties and a mysterious glowing glass orb that reveals haunting visions of love, loss and truth.

“I’ve always been a storyteller—I was that kid in class who everyone wanted to hear read first,” said Shattuck. “Now, as both a teacher and writer, I still love creating stories that keep readers turning the pages and looking for what comes next.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students design signs for Nature Preserve

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2025 • Comments Off

A group of nine students in the college’s art, graphic design and multimedia programs teamed up with fine arts instructor Tellef Tellefson and staff from The Nature Conservancy’s Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve, located in Lompoc, to design interpretive signage for the Jalama Campground, located adjacent to the preserve.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts Career Exploration Day for high school, college students

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invited more than 1,300 local high school and college students to its Santa Maria campus on Oct. 3 for the college’s annual?Career?Exploration?Day.

The in-person event provided participating students with the opportunity to explore potential career paths and learn more about the college’s academic and career technical education programs.

?“Career Exploration Day gives students a chance to connect with industry professionals,” said Hancock Career Counselor David Hernandez. “It opens their eyes to companies and career paths they might not have considered.”

Bilingual report — New students get a warm welcome at ‘Hancock Hello’

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invited more than 1,800 new students to attend a “Hancock Hello” orientation event on Aug. 12 at the Santa Maria campus.

During the event, the new Bulldog students and their parents were able to learn more about Hancock and the programs and support services the college offers. Attendees met faculty and staff, learned more about college departments and student clubs, and took campus tours.

“I really like Hancock Hello because you get to see all these new faces and help them feel welcome,” said Jaci Rayas, a Hancock student ambassador who worked the event. “It’s great for students and their parents to see everything that’s here for them and see that they have a support system here.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College fire academy selected for Metallica Scholars Initiative

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

“This is an exciting opportunity to support our students and respond to critical workforce needs in California,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “With the support of the Metallica Scholars Initiative, we can help more students—many from historically underserved communities—overcome financial barriers and launch meaningful, life-saving careers.”

Allan Hancock College invites new students to ‘Hancock Hello’ orientation events on Aug. 5, 12

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting new students and their families to kick off the academic year with fun and informative Hancock Hello orientation events held this August at the college’s Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center.

Hancock Hello is designed to help first-time students and their families get connected, feel confident and prepare for a successful college experience. The Lompoc Valley Center will host its Hancock Hello event on Aug. 5, from 4 to 6:30 p.m., and the Santa Maria campus event will be held on Aug. 12 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

“Hancock Hello is a great opportunity for incoming students and their families to get familiar with campus life,” said Hancock Outreach Coordinator Patricia Prado-Rios. “It’s a fun and informative way to feel prepared and excited for the year ahead.”

Allan Hancock College encourages students to register for Fall classes

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is still accepting registrations for the upcoming fall semester, which begins Aug. 18.

“Fall is a great time for students to take that next step,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Whether they are pursuing a degree, a certificate, or just exploring something new, our faculty and staff are here to support their success.”

With hundreds of classes available in-person and online, there’s never been a better time for students to pursue their educational goals.

Cloverlane Foundation launches Nurses Project for students at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • June 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The nonprofit Cloverlane Foundation announced the launch of the Nurses Project, a new program to provide textbooks and other educational resources for nursing students with the initial savings for students of $35,000. Allan Hancock College is the first school selected to participate in what is intended to become a multi-college program.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College, California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) announce new bachelor of science in nursing partnership

by Community Contributor • June 2, 2025 • Comments Off

“This collaboration with CSU Channel Islands is another example of how Hancock is working to remove barriers and create seamless pathways for students to pursue higher education and meaningful careers,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Nurses are in high demand across the state, and this program will help our students advance their careers while serving their communities.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrates graduates at 2025 Commencement Ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of 1,287 graduating students at the college’s 104th commencement ceremony.

“Whether your journey here was fast and focused or winding and full of unexpected turns, today is the moment where it all comes together,” said Hancock Board of Trustees President Hilda Zacarías. “It is a joy to celebrate with you.”

Allan Hancock College celebrates 2025 Transfer Students

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated 2025 graduates who will continue their education at four-year universities at its annual University Transfer Celebration on May 16 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

Hosted each year by Hancock’s University Transfer Center, the event was an opportunity for Hancock’s transfer students to celebrate their achievements with their friends and family as they prepared for a new chapter in their educational journeys. More than 300 transfer graduates and their families were honored at this year’s celebration.

Participating students, many wearing apparel from their respective universities, received a commemorative transfer medallion, took photos with their soon-to-be university peers, and listened to messages of support from Hancock staff and their fellow transfer students.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts fire and EMS Graduations in Lompoc

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College celebrated a new crop of first responders on May 16 as a combined 68 cadets graduated from the college’s fire and emergency medical services (EMS) academies.?

The graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.??

“This graduating class embodies the future of public safety,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “They’ve undergone rigorous training and are ready to step into their roles as first responders, serving and protecting our communities.”

Bilingual report — Three community champions named at 2025 Hancock Honors recipients

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College announced the recipients of the 2025 Hancock Honors, presented by CoastHills Credit Union. This annual celebration recognizes individuals and organizations making a lasting impact on the college and the communities it serves.

This year’s honorees are the late community banker and philanthropist Jim Glines, retired Hancock faculty member and veteran Dr. Henry Davis, and the Santa Yne Valley Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to enriching lives throughout the Santa Ynez and Los Alamos Valleys.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors noncredit students at recognition ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of its noncredit students at its annual Noncredit Recognition Ceremony on Friday, May 9, at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The celebration, held in Boyd Concert Hall, highlighted the perseverance and accomplishments of students who completed noncredit certificate programs, earned their GEDs, completed English Language Development (ELDN) courses, or achieved U.S. citizenship through the college’s noncredit offerings.

More than 200 students completed noncredit programs at Hancock during the 2025 academic year.

“This event shines a light on the hard work and determination of our noncredit students, many of whom have overcome significant personal and academic obstacles to reach their goals,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers. “We’re proud to celebrate their success and the life-changing impact of these programs.”

Bilingual report — Twelve cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2025 • Comments Off

“Today is not an ending, but rather a beginning,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Vincent Wasilewski. “It is the beginning of a career in one of the most demanding and rewarding professions anywhere.”

All 12 graduates of CORE Academy Class #19 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students to work as correctional officers. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, contraband, arrest and control, physical fitness training, CPR/First Aid and emergency vehicle operations.

Bilingual report Allan Hancock College hosts art, music, dance and film events (and ?Folklórico Invitational Concert) May 1 through 19

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2025 • Comments Off

Hancock will host the 2025 Folklórico Invitational concert and dance performance on May 1-3 at 7 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus. Performers include Hancock students, as well as talented dancers from Righetti, Pioneer Valley and Santa Maria high schools, as well as members of the community. Tickets are $10 each and are available at https://www.hancockcollege.edu/pathways/creative-arts/tickets.php.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College sparks conversation on future of AI at summit

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College welcomed more than 200 students, educators, industry leaders and community members to its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit on April 18 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The event, a first of its kind for the college, brought together experts from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, LinkedIn, Cal Poly, Moorpark College, Berkeley College and Hancock for a day of engaging discussions, keynote presentations, breakout sessions and panel conversations. Topics included AI trends, practical applications, ethical considerations and how artificial intelligence is reshaping education, employment, and everyday life.

Bilingual commentary — Allan Hancock and Cuesta Colleges receive grant to develop high-tech hubs, cybersecurity degree

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College have been awarded state funding through Uplift Central Coast’s Catalyst Predevelopment Grant initiative to establish the AHC/CC High Tech Hubs: Diversifying Careers Through Education project.

This initiative aims to address regional workforce gaps by preparing the next generation of aerospace engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and skilled technicians in high-demand industries. The grant is part of Uplift Central Coast’s recent $9 million investment in 36 projects across six counties, supporting economic growth, workforce development, and equitable job opportunities.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts dance, rodeo, film and family events March 27 through April 11

by Community Contributor • March 21, 2025 • Comments Off

These community events include a performance by the college’s Commercial Dance Team, a two-day rodeo event, movie screenings and a family-friendly “Spring Fling” hosted at Hancock’s Lompoc Valley Center (LVC) campus.

Bilingual report — California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) to launch new bachelor’s degree offerings at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo are partnering to significantly expand access to in-person baccalaureate degrees in northern Santa Barbara County.

Beginning in fall 2026, Cal Poly will offer a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus, providing local students with access to a high-quality and affordable bachelor’s degree. Cal Poly is also committing to launching two additional yet-to-be-named bachelor’s degrees in 2028 and 2030.

Allan Hancock College hosts ‘Pathways to Success’ networking event

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2025 • Comments Off

The event aimed to strengthen relationships between educators and local employers, enhancing the college-to-workforce pipeline.

Approximately 300 attendees participated, including representatives from 16 industry sectors, Hancock faculty and staff, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee members, area high school educators and other community members.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College offers short-term Spring classes

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is encouraging students to earn additional college credits by enrolling in?short-term?spring?classes, which start on March 24.

Registration is underway for?short-term?spring?classes?in English, mathematics, history, anthropology, art appreciation, and more. Many of the?classes?are offered online and can be completed in just eight weeks.??

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery presents retrospective exhibition of Kam Jacoby photographic works

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Spanning 40 years of Jacoby’s career, the exhibition takes visitors on a visual journey from his early days as a student to his evolution as a professional photographer and educator. Jacoby’s work reveals a boundless curiosity, capturing beauty in everyday moments, patterns in nature, and the quiet dignity of historical or abandoned spaces.

“These groups of work are selections from over 40 years of photography,” said Jacoby. “Some projects were completed in a matter of hours or days, while others have developed over years. With each project, I set simple parameters—like camera choice or geographic area—to create a framework for exploration.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College buries time capsule at Lompoc Valley Center

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College staff, faculty and students gathered at the college’s Lompoc Valley Center to bury a time capsule in celebration of the LVC on Feb. 18.

The metal time capsule, which was designed and fabricated by Hancock welding professor Gabriel Marquez, contains more than 20 items gathered by college staff and faculty that represent history at the college between 2020 and 2024. The capsule will be unearthed in 2049 when the LVC celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College offers help with financial aid applications at ‘Cash for College’ workshops on Feb. 22

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2025 • Comments Off

?During the workshop, Hancock staff will be available to help participating students and their parents fill out a FAFSA (Free Application?for?Federal Student Aid) or a California Dream Act application. Students will also be able to apply?for?state and federal grants, including a Cal Grant, which offers?cash?for?college?and does not have to be repaid.?The application process takes about one hour to complete. Spanish-speaking staff will also be available.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts ‘Week of Welcome’ events for Spring students

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is celebrating new and returning students this spring semester with several Week of Welcome (WOW) activities in early February. WOW provides Hancock students with a chance to meet their peers and instructors, connect with clubs and resources, and receive free food and prizes.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District offer college classes in Guadalupe

by Community Contributor • January 28, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District have partnered to bring college-level courses directly to students in Guadalupe, expanding access to higher education opportunities within the community.

The new classes allow high school students in Guadalupe to enroll in general education courses for college credit. The classes include Communication Studies 101: Introduction to Public Speaking and Psychology 101: Introduction to Psychology and are held at the Guadalupe Senior Center.

Each course combines weekly in-person sessions from 5 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. with one hour of online instruction. The classes began on Jan. 21 and will run through May 14, with a capacity of up to 30 students per course.

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