The Messenger – March 2025
Student Success
Compton College is Accepting Applications for Summer and Fall 2025
Applications are now open for enrollment at Compton College for the 2025 summer sessions
and fall semester. As a lower-cost alternative to four-year colleges/universities,
Compton College offers top-quality academics and is both a gateway to higher education,
and for some, an alternative to four-year institutions. Students may apply online
in a few easy steps: http://www.compton.edu/apply/. Complete the steps to enrollment now to be ready to register for classes in April.
Registration for summer 2025 classes begins April 15 and fall 2025 registration begins
April 29. Students are encouraged to plan now and not wait until the last minute.
Summer classes begin June 23 and fall classes begin August 23, 2025.
Compton College offers a convenient, affordable education and essential resources
for traditional and non-traditional students—all in an encouraging environment that
provides personalized student support to put you on the road to success. Students
of all ages may earn an associate degree or certificate, transfer to a four-year university
or train for a job. Our Career Education programs give students an opportunity to learn a new trade, make a career change,
and acquire or upgrade skills to re-enter the workforce with training that takes as
little as 18 months to complete.
First-Time College Students Attend Compton College Nearly Free
The Oliver W. Conner College Promise fee waiver program is now available to ALL first-time
college students regardless of age or where they reside. This includes students who
attended Compton College while still in high school under our dual enrollment programs.
First-time college students (full- or part-time) who meet the eligibility criteria
will have their $46 per unit enrollment fees waived at Compton College for two years
(up to 15 units per term). Apply at https://www.compton.edu/college-promise/index.aspx.
Students Encouraged to Apply for Compton College Scholarships
In addition to offering state and federal Financial Aid that many students are eligible
to receive, the Foundation for the Compton Community College District annually awards
numerous scholarships to students to help finance college. In the past five years,
the Foundation has awarded more than $176,200 in scholarships to more than 450 Compton
College students. We encourage all currently enrolled students to apply for scholarships
now through March 31, 2025.If a student needs assistance with the 300-word Personal Statement for the application, they should visit the Student Success Center or Transfer & Career Center (Student Services Building, Room 266).
Online application and more information at the link: https://www.compton.edu/admissions-aid/financial-aid/scholarships.aspx
Scholarships are beneficial to students trying to offset the cost of a college education. Scholarships do not need to be paid back and are awarded based on specific qualifications, talents, or merit often without regard to financial need. Current Compton College students may apply online for multiple scholarships with just one application. The annual scholarship application period is usually fall through early spring of the following year. Apply online at https://www.compton.edu/admissions-aid/financial-aid/on-campus-scholarships.aspx.
Compton College Receives $1.9 Million Grant to Support Transfer Success
Compton College recently received a $1.9 million grant from the Ballmer Group, a significant
gift that will assist the college’s efforts to improve academic pathways and ensure
students have what they need to complete their coursework and transfer to a university
as quickly as possible. This grant will support Compton College in three main areas:
staffing, student programming, and technology. The Ballmer Group is committed to improving
economic mobility and opportunity for youth and families in the United States.
“This substantial grant will help us strengthen the transfer culture on campus, which
requires a focused effort from the entire college,” said Compton College President/CEO
Keith Curry. “Students need proactive advising at the beginning and during their community
college journey, so the process is streamlined, creating a path to graduation. This
means a path with only the classes needed – no more needing additional classes and
taking unnecessary classes – these barriers to transferring must be removed at the
start. Everyone has a different transfer path in higher education, we are here to
help make it happen.”
Read more
Alum Spotlight: Terrance Stewart
“Compton College gave me an opportunity to improve my life circumstances when so many
others wouldn’t,” said Terrance Stewart, a 2010 graduate of Compton College. Stewart
credits his experiences at Compton College for restoring his self-esteem, building
his leadership abilities, and giving him a strong foundation upon which to pursue
higher degrees.
“There is something special about Compton College and the people who work there,”
Stewart explains. “Faculty members and administrators recognized my potential and
always encouraged me to do more. They recommended I join student government; no one
had ever asked me to be something important.” To aid in his success at community college,
he took advantage of every resource available to him such as financial aid, Extended
Opportunity Programs and Services, academic counseling, tutoring, the student worker
program, TRIO, the Transfer Center, and Upward Bound.
The strong foundation at Compton College laid the path for Stewart to transfer and
graduate cum laude from the University of California, Riverside with a bachelor’s
degree in ethnic studies, then earning a master’s degree in higher education administration.
During the UC Riverside 2013 commencement ceremony, Stewart was honored with the Marguleas/Weiman
Humanitarian Award (one of many awards he’s received), which is presented to a graduating
student who is recognized as a “true volunteer and role model.” He was also named
2011-2012 Student Organization President of the Year for his leadership and service
to the UC Riverside Student Disability Union and the following year the Student Disability
Union was named Organization of the Year.
Since 2019, Terrance Stewart has worked at the Alliance for Safety and Justice (ASI)
in three positions with increasing responsibility. Currently, Stewart is a Time Done
national training director for the Time Done Project at the Alliance for Safety and
Justice, a national organization dedicated to transforming the criminal justice system
and the advancement of racial and economic justice. Stewart works with local Time
Done chapters across the country to develop and implement needed training programs
to help remove barriers to success for those rebuilding their lives after past convictions.
He has also led teams of individuals who advocate for criminal justice reform at state
governments, speaking with elected officials as agents of change. He trains groups
to use this advocacy framework to meet with elected officials.
Read more
Alum Spotlight: Joshua Jackson
Compton College alumnus Joshua Jackson is honoring the legacy of paying it forward
modeled by his beloved grandfather’s ministry as a local bishop. While attending Compton
College (class of 2017), Jackson served as Associated Student Government (ASG) president
where he laid the groundwork for advocacy, leadership, and service, looking for ways
to assist students in need.
“Attending Compton College was everything to me!” said Jackson. Having finished high
school with a surprising 1.7 GPA due to several factors, including a difficult and
uninspiring learning environment, Compton College helped me reassociate with education.”
Jackson earned a 4.0 GPA during his first semester at Compton College. Upon graduating
from Compton College with an associate degree in political science, he transferred
to UCLA, graduating in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in African American studies.
He is currently researching universities for his graduate studies and plans to enroll
in a master’s program to earn a degree in either public policy or social work.
Today, he is a college advisor at Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles helping students
forge their path in life, sometimes against the odds. This is more than a career to
him; it’s something he is innately driven to do. Outside of his job, he often becomes
a personal mentor to the students after they graduate from Crenshaw High. Some students
still call him for advice while attending college and beyond. He makes himself available
to them without question.
“As a college advisor working with high school students, I try to be similar to the
faculty and staff role models I had at Compton College,” said Jackson. “I try to have
that same kind of positive influence with students that my mentors did with me. They
just cared. They listened, and they encouraged me through my doubts.”
During his second year at Compton College, Jackson met another student who shared
his beliefs and passions. He and Dayshawn Louden, who served as ASG vice president,
set out to see how they could enact positive change together through their roles in
student government.
At a Compton College Brothers to Sisters Club meeting during the 2016-2017 school
year, two students spoke up during a “Real Talk” session and shared they were homeless.
This moment inspired Jackson and Louden to begin advocating for student housing and
assistance with basic needs. They went to Compton College President Keith Curry with
their ideas and information about many students they had talked with who were struggling
with food and housing insecurity.
A Student Homeless Task Force was established to address housing, food, and basic
needs for the student body and soon a food pantry opened on campus. Students were
also invited to use the gymnasium showers, if needed, and were offered bathroom kits
and supplies. Curry began the years-long process of researching funding avenues for
on-campus student housing and then applying for a state grant through Assembly Bill
183.
Jackson admits that, as an alumnus, he feels a responsibility to support and stay
involved at Compton College. “During my time as ASG president, the student council’s
goal was to always keep the ‘community’ in community college,” he said. “Compton College
has become a benchmark for student equity and access. I believe it is important for
current and future student leaders and alumni to continue passing that legacy. I have
a duty to utilize the platforms I’ve been given to bring light to this important work
and the unsung heroes, and I take that very seriously.”
Coming full circle through their advocacy, which began eight years ago, both Jackson
and Louden were invited to speak at Compton College’s recent groundbreaking ceremony
for the new 250+ bed student housing facility being built on campus with a targeted
completion date of summer 2027. The two remain close friends today and, along with
other like-minded individuals, continue their service to others both inside and outside
of their careers.
“My hope is that students and alumni are inspired in their own journey and also give
back to the Compton College community,” said Jackson. “Leadership, advocacy, and paying
it forward can bring so much fulfillment; your success can fuel the success of others.
I’m hearing about many students having similar experiences to mine at Compton College,
which lets me know it is truly a transformative and special place.”
Alum Spotlight: Dayshawn Louden
Nationwide, less than 5 percent of youth raised in foster care graduate from four-year
universities and only 2-6 percent complete a degree from a two-year college, according
to the National Foster Youth Institute. During Compton College’s 2017 Commencement
Ceremony, graduate and former foster youth Dayshawn Louden’s cap was adorned with
the words “I’m not supposed to be here.” The statement also references the fact that
only 7 percent of Black men in the U.S. earn an associate degree.
That day, Louden was presented with his associate degree in political science and
transferred to University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) on scholarship the following
fall, graduating in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in social studies, with an emphasis
in ethnic studies, and a minor in education.
“As a result of Compton College’s supportive environment, I received my first A and
was on the dean’s honors list for the first time ever,” said Louden. “That instilled
this belief in me that ‘I can make a plan, set goals, follow through with that plan,
and be successful in matriculating.’ I believe that is also why I was able to transfer
to and graduate from the No. 1 public 4-year university in the U.S.”
Today, Louden is a case manager of permanent supportive housing (PSH) at Brilliant
Corners, a nonprofit organization and subcontractor for California’s Department of
Mental Health. Brilliant Corners provides housing and support services to people experiencing
homelessness or transitioning from institutional settings. PSH case managers serve
an important role in breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing long-term, holistic
support tailored to each client’s needs. Their work helps ensure that people with
complex challenges—such as disabilities, mental health issues, or substance use disorders—can
maintain stable housing and improve their quality of life.
Attending Compton College set the wheels in motion for Louden to hone his advocacy
and community service leadership. He teamed up with other like-minded students to
find ways to help those struggling to complete college and earn degrees. One classmate,
Joshua Jackson, became a lifelong close friend and fellow advocate. During their second
year at Compton College, they ran for office in the Associated Student Government,
Louden serving as vice present and Jackson serving as president. “Joshua and I are
like peanut butter and jelly. He knows how to inspire and lead a team, and my thing
has always been data and analytics to inform and support our work,” Louden said.
The two student leaders immediately gathered feedback by talking to Compton College
students, staff, and faculty to gain information about challenges and needs on campus.
Discovering there was a growing number of students on campus facing housing and food
insecurity, they brought a group of homeless students to Compton College President
Keith Curry’s office so he could learn about the issues they were facing. Shortly
after, a Student Homeless Task Force was established to address housing, food, and
basic needs for the student body and soon a food pantry opened on campus. Students
were also invited to use the gymnasium showers, if needed, and were offered bathroom
kits and supplies. Curry began the years-long process of researching funding avenues
for on-campus student housing and then applying for a state grant through Assembly
Bill 183.
Coming full circle through their advocacy, which began eight years ago, Louden and
Jackson were invited to speak at Compton College’s recent groundbreaking ceremony
for the new 250+ bed student housing facility being built on campus.
“I extend my gratitude to all the Compton College faculty and staff members who served
as vital role models and mentored me, especially the late, great Ikaweba Bunting [former
division chair, social and behavioral sciences] and Joseph Lewis [former student services
advisor],” said Louden. “They taught me the power of using my voice to enact change,
and that I was in a position to be a social servant, if you will, to assist others.
I am proud of the legacy they passed on to me.”
Research shows that interacting with and witnessing successful alumni of color provides
students with tangible examples of what they can achieve. It reassures them that people
who share their backgrounds have navigated similar challenges and succeeded.
“One opportunity we have identified for Compton College and other community colleges
is the importance of engaging alumni as active mentors,” said Louden. “The institutions
are trying, but there is a vital need for students of color to receive guidance from
alumni who come from similar backgrounds. There is a deficit in mentorship; I challenge
alumni to consider reaching out and volunteering as a mentor. I didn’t get to this
point without the many people that lifted me up and helped me in my life.”
Through his own experiences and his work, Louden has come to realize he can reach
many former foster youth because of his shared experiences. There are approximately
20,000+ youth who age out of the foster system and must then determine how forge their
paths in life.
“I’ve made it my mission in life to increase the higher education graduation rate
for underserved populations, especially former foster youth,” said Louden. While continuing
his career as a case manager assisting the unhoused, he plans to enter a graduate
program at either the University of Southern California or California State University,
Long Beach to earn a master’s degree in social work. In the future, he would like
to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving foster youth as a psychological
and behavioral therapist with his own practice.
Facilities News
Compton College Breaks Ground for New Student Housing
The Compton Community College District held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new
86,000-square-foot Student Housing facility on the Compton College campus on January
17, 2025. This new student housing facility will provide necessary accommodations
for Compton College students (both individuals and those with dependents), offering
them a place to call home while they pursue their educational goals.
The Compton College student housing facility will be located at the northeast corner
of campus. The award-winning architectural design for the new student housing includes
two three-story buildings to house affordable student living quarters with 100 percent
occupancy earmarked for eligible low-income students.
The facility will provide three types of living configurations: 50 traditional units
with access to shared bathrooms and common spaces, 50 semi-suite units with bathrooms
and access to common spaces, 50 studio units for single occupants, for a combined
total of 250 student beds, and one residential director studio unit.
It is anticipated that several students may have dependents cohabitating with them
in the studio units which may increase the total occupancy of the building but will
not reduce the student bed count. Flexibility of furniture and unit organization is
critical to allow for lifestyle flexibility. The residential units will be connected
by a central common area with community kitchens, social lounges, study rooms, and
play areas. Covered bridges will link the buildings, ensuring equity and balance with
an overall building design that respects the campus’s architectural character while
infusing modern elements.
This construction project was made possible through an $80.3 million state grant funded
under California Assembly Bill 183. The current estimated completion date for the
student housing facility is summer 2027.
View photos from the event here
CCCD Looking for Candidates to Serve on Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee
Interested in getting involved with the Compton Community College District as a volunteer?
The Compton Community College District is currently accepting applications for consideration
in serving on the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee.The District is looking for the following committee members:
- member active in a senior citizens’ organization
- member active in a bona-fide taxpayers association
- members of the community at large
Per Education Code Section 15278, the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee informs the public concerning the District’s expenditure of revenues received from the sale of bonds authorized by the voters for facility upgrades and construction.
More information about committee member responsibilities and the application are available online.
2035 Comprehensive Master Plan
The final version of Compton College’s 2035 Comprehensive Master Plan was presented to the Compton Community College District Board of Trustees at its
December 10, 2024 meeting.The Compton College Facilities Master Plan (pages 78-95), which is part of the larger Comprehensive Master Plan, outlines a strategic vision for the future development of the college campus, focusing on new construction, renovations, and site improvements to enhance Compton College’s educational environment. It includes a summary of existing conditions of the campus today and the long-range vision for Compton College’s future campus.
New construction projects outlined in the Facilities Master Plan include:
- Student Union
- Student Housing – Phase 1 and Phase 2
- Physical Education (PE) Complex
- Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Facility
- Science Building
- Community Health Clinic
- Athletics and Community Zone Facilities
District News
Compton Community College District Board Meeting Scheduled for March 17
The next meeting of the Compton Community College District Board of Trustees is scheduled
for Monday, March 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in Room 212, located in the Student Services
Building at 1111 E. Artesia Boulevard, Compton, CA 90221.
All regular session Board meetings are open to the public. Closed session begins at
5:00 p.m.
The Board Agenda is posted 72 hours in advance of the meeting. Agendas are posted
on the BoardDocs website under the “Meetings” tab at: https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/compton/Board.nsf/Public.
Looking for Candidates Interested in Serving on CCCD Foundation Board of Directors
We are looking for candidates interested in serving on the Foundation for the Compton Community College District. Specifically, we are looking for those who are associated with organizations in the nonprofit sector. The Board meets monthly, and board members serve a two-year term.
Interested parties should fill out the Foundation Board of Directors Interest Form at www.compton.edu/district/foundation/foundation-interest-form
The Foundation for the Compton Community College District provides financial support, scholarships, and other needed resources to Compton College students, faculty, and staff for ongoing improvement of the academic environment. This is accomplished through partnerships with individuals and corporations in the surrounding areas.
Purpose:
The Foundation’s purpose is to help the District fulfill its role in serving the community in the following areas:
- Soliciting contributions and raising working capital to support the educational endeavors of the District;
- Provide financial assistance to the District by acquiring equipment, property, and supplies for the benefit of students, faculty, and staff;
- Establish and support programs/activities within the District that maximize academic achievement and enrichment;
- Raising and awarding scholarship funds for Compton College students; and
- Assisting needy and underprivileged members of our college community.
Other News
Information on Compton College Immigration Enforcement Policies
Compton College remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment free from harassment and discrimination. To uphold this commitment, on January 17, 2025, the Compton Community College District issued Administrative Regulation 3415 - Immigration Enforcement Activities, which aligns with Board Policy 1200 – Mission and Vision. An email communication informed students and employees about the new protocols.This regulation outlines the District’s legal responsibilities as a California higher education institution when dealing with immigration officers or agents on campus or when receiving subpoenas or warrants related to immigration enforcement. All District employees need to understand these obligations to ensure compliance with the law while supporting our community.
Please visit the Know Your Rights webpage, which now includes additional information to support the Compton College community. Beginning in February 2025, the District will send a monthly communication regarding immigration enforcement activities and pertinent information for employees and students.
We are here to support Compton College students every step of the way. Students are encouraged to reach out for assistance or to get questions answered. If you need more information or assistance, please contact the Associate Registrar (bdean1@compton.edu) in the Admissions & Records Office (first floor of the Student Services Building). Additional information is also available online at www.compton.edu/admissions-aid/admissions-records/ab540/.
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