Ross is running for the Glendale Community College district to achieve some clear goals:
A successful GCC Trustee ensures the college meets its educational goals while continuously improving the student experience. Ross would actively seek student feedback to understand what's working, what isn't, and how the Board can make meaningful improvements - whether through more interactive learning, increased awareness of opportunities and internships, greater class availability, or improvements to campus facilities.
Enrollment has fallen since COVID. Due to how community colleges are funded, increasing enrollment can significantly increase funding that the college receives. Increased funding means more resources for students, a better student experience, better working conditions for faculty and staff and a more thriving campus.
Ross believes part of the solution to increase enrollment starts with students themselves. Young people increasingly get their information through social media, making students the most authentic voices to share the GCC story online. Businesses and organizations across every sector already leverage these platforms effectively. I believe that Glendale College can do the same - by investing in a focused, student-driven social media strategy. This approach can help strengthen enrollment efforts.
Strong colleges depend on the people who power them. Improving benefits for faculty and staff, especially adjuncts, means fair wages, equitable working conditions, and access to health, mental-health, and professional support.
By protecting faculty rights, supporting collective bargaining, and strengthening shared governance, GCC can create a healthier, more sustainable workplace that allows educators to focus on teaching and mentoring students. When faculty and staff are supported, students benefit from higher-quality instruction, stability, and a stronger campus community.
A trustee is also responsible for overseeing resource allocation and this includes approving contracts, labor agreements and other decisions on how the college spends money. One of the pillars of Ross' core beliefs is that students, faculty and staff should be treated fairly, adequately compensated and have a safe and supportive workplace. This should apply across the board with no exceptions. Without happy and supported employees and students, the college cannot fully blossom.
I believe everyone should have an equal seat at the table and that in order to attract good talent, there should be good benefits.
For students, reduced costs of goods on campus, deals and partnerships at local businesses are all things that should be considered to improve their overall experience.
Southern California is not a cheap place to live and the city of Glendale is no exception. Students come from diverse backgrounds, and some face housing instability or lack secure housing altogether. Ross believes it is the Board's responsibility to explore options for student housing or improved access to affordable accommodations. Students already juggle academic demands, extracurricular commitments, and work responsibilities; worrying about finding safe, stable housing near campus should not be another burden they have to carry.
Cutting down travel time, removing or easing the pressure of finding a place to live, and allowing students to focus on their studies all will increase the performance of the student body and make GCC a success.
