New Leadership Appointments at Long Beach City College
Long Beach City College (LBCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three dynamic leaders who will join its administrative team, enhancing the college's commitment to student success and operational excellence. Candace Jones has been selected as the Vice President of Administrative and Business Services, Rick von Kolen has been appointed as the Associate Vice President of Human Resources, and Fabiola Huerta has taken on the role of Director of Administrative and Business Services.
Dynamic New Leadership Team for LBCC
The LBCCD Board of Trustees expressed their enthusiasm for the new appointments, recognising the potential impact that these leaders will have on the college’s mission. Uduak-Joe Ntuk, the Board President, remarked, "We welcome these Higher Education Rock Stars to our outstanding leadership team at Long Beach City College. Their combined expertise will enhance the college’s overall business operations and strengthen our abilities to support employees to perform at a high level." This sentiment underscores the progressive vision the college aims to achieve in the coming years.
Advancing Student Success and Equity
Dr. Mike Muñoz, LBCC President, emphasised the timeliness of these appointments, stating, "Candace Jones, Rick von Kolen, and Fabiola Huerta join us at a pivotal moment as we work to advance student success and equity at LBCC. Their leadership will play a critical role in ensuring that we deliver exceptional resources and opportunities that empower our students to achieve their goals and thrive in an inclusive learning environment." This commitment to modernising facilities, integrating technology, and fostering diversity amongst faculty reflects the college's drive to enhance the student experience.
Roles and Responsibilities
Each appointee brings a wealth of experience that will be beneficial to their respective responsibilities at the college. Candace Jones will manage the district-wide operations related to fiscal oversight, facilities, business, and technology services. Reporting directly to her, Fabiola Huerta will be responsible for procurement and contracts, while also overseeing mail and reprographic services.
Experience and Expertise
Candace Jones has valuable experience as the Assistant-Superintendent/Vice President of Business and Administrative Services at Pasadena City College. Her track record includes progressive roles at the University of California, Office of the President, UCLA, and Pepperdine University, culminating in a solid foundation of skills. She holds a Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in History from Pepperdine University and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. program with Saint Mary’s College of California.
Rick von Kolen brings a robust 20 years of higher education experience to his new role. Previously, he worked with CSU Long Beach as the Employee Relations Director, along with the Los Angeles Community College District. His educational background includes a Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. This blend of legal and human resources expertise positions him well to handle the complex landscape of college employee relations.
Fabiola Huerta’s position will benefit from her 16 years of public sector experience, where she excelled as city manager and city clerk for La Habra Heights. Helming fiscal policy reform and enhancing accountability in her previous role laid a strong groundwork for her capabilities at LBCC. Huerta earned her Master of Arts in Humanities from Mount Saint Mary’s College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a Minor in Speech Communications from California State University, Fullerton.
About Long Beach City College
Long Beach City College plays a pivotal role in the community by serving over 35,000 students each semester across its two campuses. The institution is dedicated to preparing students for successful transitions, whether toward baccalaureate institutions or career pathways. It plays an integral part in supporting local businesses and elevating economic development initiatives. The college fosters an environment of equitable learning and academic excellence, thereby promoting workforce development through high-quality educational programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What roles have been newly appointed at Long Beach City College?
Candace Jones is the new Vice President of Administrative and Business Services, Rick von Kolen is the Associate Vice President of Human Resources, and Fabiola Huerta is the Director of Administrative and Business Services.
What is the focus of the new leadership team?
The new leadership team is focused on enhancing student success, equity, operational efficiency, and modernising resources at Long Beach City College.
What experience does Candace Jones bring to LBCC?
Candace Jones has previously served as the Assistant-Superintendent/Vice President at Pasadena City College and has held various roles within the University of California system.
How does Rick von Kolen's background suit his new role?
With 20 years in higher education and extensive experience in human resources and employee relations, Rick von Kolen is well-positioned to address the needs of LBCC's workforce.
What initiatives does the college focus on for student development?
LBCC is committed to modernising facilities, integrating technology, and ensuring its faculty reflects the diversity of its student body to enhance the overall student experience.
