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A Future of Promise & Hope

Volume X, Issue 5, October 28, 2024
In our October issue, SMC in Focus celebrates the arc of transformation that has led Santa Monica College alumni from here to, well, just about everywhere! MIT. The opportunity to perform alongside a jazz legend. USC. An associate dean & career counselor who returned to the place that changed their lives. Also, an in-depth look at a newish program that is training Corsairs for careers in 21st century architecture. Enjoy this glimpse of excellence—it really is just a glimpse.

Daniela “Danny” Davalos and Les Armstrong

From SMC to MIT

SMC alumni Daniela Davalos and Les Armstrong became graduate students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to pursue their respective passions for safer spaceflight and fighting climate change.

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Claire Anneet

Jazzed to be at USC

Serendipity and a solid thumbs-up from jazz legend Stanley Clarke helped this promising young vocalist find her place on the bandstand.

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Jose Hernandez with colleagues Giselle Gradilla and Aaron de la Torre

Committed Counselor

Personal reasons drive Associate Dean Jose Hernandez’ passion for ensuring that all new students are supported in their academic journey at SMC.

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Jessica Trachtenberg

Doing Her Duty

Career counselor Jessica Trachtenberg is changing students’ lives at the place that changed hers, with creativity, heart, and a joyous sense of duty.

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Christyanne Melendez at the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro

Bragging Rights

A Geology instructor makes it to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. SMC Fashion students turn unsaleable garments into treasures. A Life Science instructor helps release endangered butterflies.

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Architecture and Interior Architecture Design students

Architecture’s Back!

Architecture has made a comeback at SMC, just in time to prepare Corsairs for a field that is evolving in the information age.

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