State of the College to Highlight Progress

State of the College to also highlight new development

PALM DESERT — Less than two weeks before voters will decide what is arguably one of the most important elections in recent memory at College of the Desert, the State of the College will be held.

“COD Rising,” a vision of College of the Desert’s future growth across its campuses, is the focus of this year’s State of the College address on Wednesday, Oct. 26, in Indian Wells.

Superintendent/President Martha Garcia, Ed.D., will provide details about some of the College’s upcoming projects, including the Palm Springs Development Project, Roadrunner Motors in Cathedral City and the Indio campus expansion.

Garcia will share information about the College’s student-focused programs and services such tutoring, counseling, wellness, food pantries and financial support that ensure students’ full range of needs are addressed. In addition to on-campus clubs that provide specialized assistance to veterans, LBGTQIA+ and other student groups, the College has partnered with FIND Food Bank on an innovative volunteer opportunity to create a debt-free pathway to college.

“College of the Desert is expanding and modernizing its programs and facilities so we can continue to provide a first-in-class education to thousands of students across the Coachella Valley,” Garcia said in a prepared statement. “These opportunities are due in large part to the foresight of our Trustees, the generosity of our donors and the bond funding that has been approved by voters. And also, the contributions our employees make to ensure student success.”

The annual State of the College address will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, 44400 Indian Wells Lane. Reservations can be made through Oct. 21 by calling 760.773.2561 or clicking here.

College of the Desert will also kick off the 40th anniversary of the COD Foundation, which has raised and gifted more than $100 million for the College since 1982.

The Foundation is celebrating the myriad ways donors and patrons have helped students create their tomorrows. Donor-supported programs include scholarships, internships, and EDGE/plEDGE, which provides college prep support and two years of free tuition for recent graduates of Coachella Valley high schools.

“College of the Desert is here to help students spread their wings, whether their dream is to transfer to a four-year college or learn career skills,” Garcia said.

Presenting sponsor MAAS Companies is joined by platinum sponsors Amazon, Eisenhower Health, the COD Foundation and Helen and Alan Greene and Jessica and James Greene in bringing “COD Rising” to the attendees. Tickets are $125 per person and sponsorships are available.

For more information, visit codfoundation.org or collegeofthedesert.edu.