New governing board trustee Humberto Peraza is off to a strong start according to community members who attended his welcoming reception recently. Peraza is a long-time community activist who has served on the executive board of Planned Parenthood, and as a member of Political Action Front and the League of Conservation Voters. He has also served as chief of staff for Congressman Bob Filner.It was his relationship with Filner that helped to gain the congressmen’s help blocking the deportation of cross-country star Ayded Reyes. Filner arranged for Reye’s release from INS detention just in time for her to win the Southern California championship.

“I think Peraza is an excellent addition to the board after so many years of representing the community with Senator Barbara Boxer and Congressman Filner,” said Jason Wells, clerk of the San Ysidro School District Governing Board. “He’s an expert on the community and an excellent representative for the community.”

Peraza said his main focus “is to make sure SWC gets back on the right track.” He has quickly gained the respect of many faculty members, including Professor of History Laura Ryan, who praised Peraza for quick, decisive action in the Reyes incident.

“We’re so lucky to have him,” said Ryan. “He immediately took action. In less than 24 hours he had got the ball rolling and had gotten Filner involved in the matter.”

Assistant Professor of Reading Dr. Sylvia Garcia-Navarrete agreed.

“I’m really excited about our board and I think he’s going to make a positive change to SWC and the community,” she said. “He’s not going to allow us to go back to those tumultuous times. I see him making SWC shine.”

Garcia-Navarrete said the work of the board is very important right now as the college tries to get back on its feet after four years of poor leadership and near loss of accreditation.

“I wish them all good luck and hope they continue with their superhero work behind the scenes,” she said.