In a historic first, Merced College President Chris Vitelli delivered the 11th Annual State of the College address from the heart of the Westside, bringing the community together at the Merced College Los Banos Campus to celebrate a year of bold innovations, expanding opportunity, and transformative partnerships.
Vitelli addressed a crowd of hundreds in the Los Banos Campus quad on April 7, sharing highlights from the past year with a focus on academic innovation, student support, community partnerships, and employee well-being.
“As we reflect on the remarkable progress Merced College has made this year, it’s clear that we are on a path of extraordinary growth and innovation,” Vitelli said. “Our success is not only a result of the hard work and dedication of our students, faculty, staff, and community partners, but also a testament to the enduring value of a community college education.”
The event included the presentation of the President’s Medallion to Larry and Georgeann Anderson of Anderson Homes, whose 2001 donation of 125 acres paved the way for a permanent Los Banos Campus to be constructed.
The new campus, which opened in 2007, has since grown to serve thousands of students and is now preparing for even more growth thanks to a $46 million bond measure passed by local voters in 2024.
“The Anderson Family has continued to be among the campus’s most loyal supporters,” said John Spevak, former Los Banos Campus dean and Vice President of Instruction, who introduced the family at the event. “Their donation was critical. … The campus was completed in 2007, on time and on budget, and has served thousands of students since that time, providing them with an education that would lead to a better life.”
Throughout his address, President Vitelli highlighted significant institutional achievements from the past year, including the reaffirmation of the college’s accreditation, strong enrollment growth, and strategic planning initiatives shaping the college’s next chapter.
Academic innovation stood at the forefront. Merced College has made headlines with its immersive virtual reality teaching environment, powered by Dreamscape Learn, and in its revolutionary approach agriculture education, which is helping students prepare for high-tech ag careers that serve the Valley and beyond.
Vitelli emphasized the college’s continued commitment to student well-being and success, from the new MESA Center to the expansion of the Career and Transfer Center, and resources like the food pantry and TimelyCare for mental health support. He also spotlighted initiatives to support faculty and staff, including expanded professional development, employee wellness programs, and a growing culture of gratitude.
The event’s Los Banos setting was fitting, given the sweeping investments underway on the campus. Recent additions include a new Child Development Center and Blue Devil’s Brew café, while plans for the Measure P bond funds call for a new Career Technical Education complex, expanded programs and services, and campus beautification projects.
The campus has also seen increased demand, now serving more than 4,100 students.
See this month’s Blue Devil’s Advocate for more on the Los Banos Campus
The president closed by reflecting on the bright future ahead for the college and the communities it serves.
“Looking forward, we are more committed than ever to providing access to high-quality education, driving workforce innovation, and fostering student success at every level,” Vitelli said. “To this community, on behalf of the Board of Trustees and our entire workforce, we thank you for your continued support and belief in the transformative power of education. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Merced College—one that serves our students, community, and future generations.”
