Southwestern College’s main campus was built on a former lima bean farm in 1964 and this year marks the school’s 57th birthday. Architecture has replaced agriculture and linguistics has shoved aside lima beans.
After nearly six decades, though, the mission remains the same.
Student Services specialist Jenny Marasigan has worked at SWC for 13 years and has seen great change in the college.
Samson the police dog takes part in the festivities by posing for photos outside the Student Center
SWC celebrates over five decades of serving the community with sparkling cider and cake
On Sept. 13, the day of the on- campus celebration, she expressed her appreciation for the college and South Bay community working together for the students’ education and success.
“The college has adapted programs to succeed and reach students’ goal,” Marasigan said. “Having that guided pathway gives the college more structure, and for me that is the most important thing. This birthday is a celebration of student success that we continue to cater to in the South Bay area. It has become the students’ safe haven. We welcome them with open arms. Even the MTS
and trolley station are working with us to help the border students.”
SWC’s positive impact on prior staff and alumni showed through retirees participating in the celebration, greeting students and sharing old experiences. Kathy Tyner worked at SWC for 28 years and retired in 2017 as the VP of Academic Affairs.
“The biggest changes I have seen throughout the years at SWC are the new construction, new staff and streamlined curriculum,” Tyner said. “I just love the college. It is family to me and I love the students, the great impact on the community, and the commitment to our students and community.”
Music played and the Jaguar cheerleaders performed, lifting the spirit of the students and administrators in attendance while conversation and laughter filled the ears of people passing by.
First-time attendees were amazed to see the close knit community. Veteran Resource Center coordinator Jonathan White has worked at SWC for three years and enjoyed his first Jaguar birthday celebration.
“I enjoy watching the campus grow
with the new construction, increase of student programs, and the support system for Dreamers”, White said. It is wonderful and shows the community what this college symbolizes.”
Catherine Hall, who is undeclared, said she attended the celebration to see what the college had to offer to its community members.
“So far I am loving the environment and community here at SWC,” said the 18-year-old. “It feels welcoming and a fun way to get to know stuff. Today we got some cake, cider and got to pet the police dogs.”
ASO Vice President of Public Relations Jazmine Escamilla, 19, communications major, encouraged students to sign birthday cards and share personal experiences while being a student at SWC. She said the purpose of public celebration was to ensure students are interacting with faculty and learning about the resources the college offers.
“I think this celebration is something special considering the fact that a lot of people did not have the opportunity to be educated and sometimes others do not really understand the difficulties of being a student here today,” Escamilla said.
