Stories

Ventura College changed one student’s life—and went on to transform an entire family’s future. From a first-generation college student to eight children attending or graduating from VC, this is a story of opportunity, resilience, and the power of education across generations.

After graduating high school, Alexis enrolled at Ventura College, a decision that became one of the most meaningful in her life. Ventura College provided the education, confidence, and sense of community that shaped her career in communications and nonprofit leadership. Today, she proudly serves Ventura County and shares her story with young people as a reminder that success doesn’t follow a single path.

Starting with a goal of becoming a registered nurse, this Ventura College graduate built a career in critical care, served on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, and ultimately earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UCLA. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education, perseverance, and believing in what’s possible.

Ruth Trejo Aguilar, a proud Ventura College alumna from the class of 1954, pursued her interests in commerce, music, dance, and photography while living in Ventura. After graduating, she built a rewarding 47-year career with Bank of America and married fellow alumnus Jim Aguilar, a former Ventura College quarterback who later transferred to Pepperdine University.

Sulema Limon is a Ventura-based entrepreneur, co-founder and CFO of JSL Mastery Paving, Inc., and first-generation college graduate whose journey from Ventura College to CSUN exemplifies the transformative power of education, mentorship, and perseverance.

Ventura College was always part of my story — from the swapmeet to the Dean’s list — but what I didn’t expect was for it to rekindle my love of learning, introduce me to a passion for math I never knew I had.

From freshman of the year on the Ventura College track & field team to managing high-profile catering events for Wolfgang Puck in Hollywood, my journey has been shaped by the discipline, coaches, and experiences that started right here

Diagnosed with cancer twice before finishing my AA, I showed up to class with no hair and a singular goal—and more than a decade later, that refusal to quit at Ventura College led me to a BA, an MA, teaching credentials, and 12 years of teaching high school English and Art.

From public school teaching to corporate sales to marketing and entrepreneurship, none of my milestones would have been possible without the confidence, curiosity, and foundation that Ventura College gave me.

From a gap year abroad to graduating Magna Cum Laude at UC Davis, and now enrolling in USC’s Clinical Psychology graduate program, Holly Guzman credits Ventura Community College for showing up at every pivotal turn in her journey

Natalie Galvan graduated from VC in 1993 with her Associate Degree in Nursing and went on to build a decorated four-decade career — earning the March of Dimes Nurse of the Year award in 2007 for her community education work before retiring in 2019.

Gary Anglin is one of the most respected coaches in community college athletics, spending over 36 years with the Ventura College Athletic Department coaching both football and baseball.

From typing memos as a division secretary in 1985 to teaching Geography as a professor today, she never left Ventura College — and after 41 years, it’s clear she never plans to.

From captain of the volleyball court to champion of her community, Monica’s journey through Ventura College gave her the grit, leadership, and confidence to build a life devoted to serving others.

Juan never left his hometown or gave up on his dream, proving that perseverance and Ventura College can take you exactly where you’re meant to go.