Photo Courtesy of SWC
By Carmina C. Sanchez
Silvia Cornejo, Southwestern College’s versatile jack-of-all-trades, is now the master of academic affairs.
Cornejo was named Vice President of Academic Affairs after serving just over a year as the interim VPAA following the dismissal of Sam Agdasi in early 2025. She said she hopes to bring continuity and stability to the position which has suffered from high turnover for decades. Cornejo had previously served as dean of the Higher Education Center at San Ysidro and Otay Mesa.
“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity,” she said. “I am so happy to have been chosen to serve in this capacity.”
Academic Senate President Caree Lesh said Cornejo will make an excellent VPAA.
“She has a deep commitment to our community and an extensive history and breath of service,” Lesh said. “(Cornejo) is a good listener and a highly effective collaborative leader who understands the role and perspectives of students and faculty.”
Cornejo said her experience across instruction, coordination and administration has shaped her perspective. She has built relationships that will help her to strengthen collaboration and connectiveness, she said.
“I am here to serve,” she said. “Leadership is a responsibility rooted in respect and care for others.”
Southwestern College has been developing experimental binational programs that Cornejo said reflect the college’s place in a transborder region. She said she is eager to continue supporting Assembly Bill 91 efforts that allow low-income Mexican students living within 45 miles of the border to attend borderlands community colleges at in-state tuition rates.
“We are extending educational opportunities into another part of our community,” she said. “San Diego County and Tijuana are connected in so many ways. Education benefits everyone in our region.”
Cornejo emphasized the importance of reaching students earlier, particularly those who may not be thinking about college.
“Early exposure can reshape what students believe is possible,” she said.
A bilingual, bicultural leader who grew up in the South Bay, Cornejo said her connection to the college is deeply personal.
“This is home,” she said. “This is where I’ve always wanted to be.”
College president Dr. Mark Sanchez said he looks forward to continuing his professional partnership with Cornejo.
“I am very proud of Silvia,” he said, “she represents the best of Southwestern College. “She works collaboratively with faculty, classified professionals and administrators to advance the district’s mission. Silvia has played a key role in major institutional initiatives, such as Options Middle College High School, crossborder academic partnerships, and efforts to strengthen enrollment integrity and strategic planning.”
Southwestern College faces challenges with funding and operates in a complex political climate, Cornejo said, but is a powerful force for good.
“We transform lives,” she said. “We help people to see a new way forward.”
She offered reassurance for students.
“We all feel uncertain at different times in our lives,” she said. “We want to support you through the journey.”
