Jennifer Taylor-Mendoza tapped to lead West Valley College
West Valley College has named Jennifer Taylor-Mendoza, PhD as its 13th president. Taylor-Mendoza comes to the Saratoga community college from the College of San Mateo, where she served as president; her first day on the new job is Aug. 24.
“West Valley College is the destination for upward economic mobility for generations of Santa Clara County residents,” said Taylor-Mendoza in a statement. “I pay tribute to the great work of my predecessors by continuing to focus on strategic planning, policy reform and professional development to enhance student access and achievement.
“Leadership matters, and I realize my role during this pivotal time in our nation as we work towards a more just society for our communities, no matter the political winds,” she continued. “I am excited to work collectively with the chancellor and board of trustees to move the district forward as we continue the great work in considering new directions, innovations and opportunities.”
A community college alumna, Taylor-Mendoza holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University Los Angeles, a master’s degree in counseling from CSU Northridge and a PhD in education from Claremont Graduate University.
The West Valley-Mission Community College District board of trustees announced her hiring last week.
“After an extensive nationwide search process, we are confident in the decision made by the college search committee and look forward to what lies ahead for the college under her leadership,” said board president Adrienne Grey in a press release.
Taylor-Mendoza has more than 20 years’ experience in the California Community College system, having served as vice president of instruction, dean of academic support and learning technologies director. She co-wrote “Minding the Obligation Gap in Community Colleges: Theory and Practice in Achieving Educational Equity.”
“Even with a large pool of diverse and highly qualified applicants, Dr. Taylor-Mendoza stood out as the clear choice. Her experience, natural ability to lead and the innate passion she has for service and education distinguished her as the right candidate to lead the college,” said West Valley-Mission Community College District Chancellor Bradley Davis. “I have every confidence she will help West Valley realize its vast potential, and I couldn’t be happier for the college to begin a new day with a leader of her caliber at the helm.”
Taylor-Mendoza also serves on the Cabrillo Education Foundation, California Community College Athletic Association, Half Moon Bay’s Coast Pride and Human Investment Project Housing. She is a legacy founder and former board director of Umoja Community Education Foundation, a global organization dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of African American and other students.