November 30, 2023
Dear SRJC Community,
First, I would like to thank the many faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and students who participated in the Vice President of Student Services screening committee, attended or viewed recordings of the candidate forums, and provided feedback via the comment form. Your participation was pivotal throughout this process and helped me in making this important hire for our District.
I am pleased to announce that I will be recommending Dr. Molly Senecal as the new Vice President, Student Services, for Santa Rosa Junior College. Pending approval from the Board of Trustees at the December meeting, Dr. Senecal’s first day will be Monday, January 8, 2024.
Dr. Molly Senecal has over fifteen years of experience in higher education and currently serves as the Dean of Student Success at Folsom Lake College, where she leads various student services and support programs, serves as the Title IX Officer, and has been instrumental in securing grants to expand access to services and close equity gaps. Her contributions have resulted in Folsom Lake College being recognized for its commendable work in awarding an increased number of associate degrees for Transfer (ADT) to Latinx students, and she has been recognized by the Chancellor’s Office as an Exemplary Community College Leader.
Dr. Senecal's extensive background extends beyond the California Community College system and includes work in K-12 and CSU systems, as well as community-based advocacy for individuals with disabilities. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from UC Davis, and a master’s in Public Administration from USC.
Dr. Senecal's visible leadership and open-door policy are a testament to her commitment to supporting faculty, staff, and students, and she is known for her warm, caring approach. Dr. Senecal embraces her identity as a Deaf, bilingual woman and is known for her work in championing student access and empowerment, particularly for those who have historically faced marginalization within educational systems. In her personal life, she enjoys backpacking, trail running, photography, and volunteering in the community. She and her partner are the proud parents of six adult children and a black Labrador Retriever named Levi.
In closing, I would like to acknowledge and thank our colleague, Robert Ethington, for serving as the Interim Vice President of Student Services over the last year. During a time of great transition for SRJC, Robert’s work was crucial in helping us continue to advance in many key areas, such as opening our new student housing facility, Polly Hall, navigating the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, such as students’ mental health and basic needs, building a culture of humility and well-being throughout student services, and supporting Guided Pathways efforts, to name a few. Robert’s dedication, heart, and loyalty to the college is evident in all he does.
Please join me in expressing our appreciation for Robert’s great work, and in giving Molly a warm welcome to SRJC.
In community,
Dr. Angélica Garcia, Ed.D.
Superintendent/President
707-527-4431, angelicagarcia@santarosa.edu
