SBCCD Trustees Honor Gloria Macias Harrison and Dr. Anne Viricel with Emeritus Status

It’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of two leaders who shaped the future of SBCCD and its students.

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. —On December 13, the San Bernardino Community College District Board of Trustees unanimously granted “emeritus” status to former trustees Gloria Macias Harrison and Dr. Anne L. Viricel, recognizing their years of dedicated leadership.

Harrison and Viricel, who stepped down on June 30, 2024, were honored for their impact on the district, which serves Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Valley College, KVCR Public Media, and the Economic Development and Corporate Training Center.

Emeritus status is reserved for those who meet strict criteria: at least eight years of continuous service, significant contributions to the district’s growth, and a commitment to expanding educational opportunities for the community.

It’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of two leaders who shaped the future of SBCCD and its students.

Gloria Macias Harrison

Harrison, who served on the board from 2012 to 2024, was celebrated for her decades-long commitment to education and student success.

Board Chair Dr. Stephanie Houston praised Harrison’s impact, stating:

• “Gloria Macias Harrison’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in shaping our district’s success. Her passion for education and commitment to student achievement have set a strong foundation for our future.”

Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez highlighted Harrison’s influence on the district:

• “Trustee Macias Harrison’s deep knowledge of higher education, governance, fiscal matters, and regional dynamics has profoundly shaped how we support our students. Her leadership on the board was a guiding light, ensuring we provide high-quality education and career training for both today’s and tomorrow’s students. We honor her exceptional service with deep gratitude and look forward to her continued involvement in the community she loves and serves so passionately.”

Dr. Anne L. Viricel

Dr. Viricel, who served on the board from 2015 to 2024, was recognized for her leadership and dedication to expanding access to higher education.

Board Chair Dr. Stephanie Houston also commended Dr. Viricel’s service:

• “Dr. Viricel has been a remarkable leader, not only within our district but also on a statewide level. Her unique perspective as a university-level business professor, nonprofit executive director, community advocate, mother, and grandmother enriched every decision we’ve made as a board. We congratulate her on her new chapter and remain deeply grateful for her contributions to our district and the wider community.”

Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez reflected on Dr. Viricel’s contributions:

• “Dr. Viricel’s wisdom and leadership were instrumental in expanding access to higher education and creating opportunities for our community. Her steady guidance as board chair during the pandemic helped us navigate challenging times and set a solid foundation that will benefit our students for years to come. I’m deeply grateful for her distinguished service and especially for her passion for arts education, which has greatly enriched our community’s cultural landscape.”

The SBCCD Board of Trustees expressed its gratitude for both Harrison and Viricel, whose legacies will continue to shape the district’s efforts to serve its 20,000 students and the broader Inland Empire community.

From left: SBCCD Student Trustee Hadi Nator, Trustee Carlos Aguilera, Trustee Cherina Betters, Student Trustee Nelva Ruiz-Martinez, Trustee Frank Reyes, Trustee Nathan Gonzales, former Trustee Gloria Macias Harrison, Trustee John Longville, Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez, former Trustee Anne Viricel, Trustee Stephanie Houston, and Trustee Joseph R. Williams at the District Boardroom on Dec. 13, 2024.