With sadness, VCCCDRA has learned of the recent passing of Karen Van Cleave on February 19, 2020. Karen was the Financial Aid Supervisor for many years at the District headquarters at 71 Day Road.
Harry Culotta remembers Karen:
“[Karen’s] position required close coordination, not only with the financial aid supervisors at each of the colleges, but also with the U.S. Department of Education and other federal agencies providing grants and loans to students. She was also responsible for all federal operational and financial reporting in connection with those programs.
“I worked closely with Karen on the accounting and financial reporting aspect of her responsibilities. She was a truly delightful lady to work with, showing great compassion for students and staff alike, especially staff members like Laura Campbell and Marian Carrasco (then a classified employee) who worked in her department. After retiring from VCCCD, Karen and her husband Bob moved to Alabama, where they lived for the rest of their lives. After Bob passed away, Karen worked for awhile at a state college near their home. As a Facebook friend, Karen would occasionally send me a message asking what changes were taking place with employee benefits, and I would give her the pertinent information.
“Karen’s passing serves as another reminder of our mortality. We miss her as a colleague, but enjoy the precious memories of her friendship.”
We have found no published obituary for Karen Van Cleave.
Retired (February 2015); Dean, Career and Technical Education, Oxnard College (2008-2015); Professor, Business, Oxnard College (1992-2008); Adjunct Professor, Business, Business Information Systems, Moorpark and Ventura Colleges (1976-1992); Intermediate Steno Secretary, Moorpark and Ventura Colleges (1970-1974).