It is a great honor to serve as the President of the Ventura County Community College District Retiree’s Association. My decision to volunteer for this position happened because leadership is important to me and any organization. Since I joined the organization upon retiring in July 2023 I have attended multiple social events. It was apparent how much connecting with colleagues meant to the participants. The fact that there are so many active committees in this organization also demonstrated the level of commitment to all retirees.
I have been asked what my goals for the future or this organization.
These are my initial goals subject to change and improvement.
1. Continue to expand outreach to reach all new and old retirees to encourage them to join the organization.
2. Provide brief in-services at the start of the socials as well as the annual meeting that are relevant to the retiree population including: Computer for Seniors, Tips on how to handle the Isolation and Loneliness which can occur after retirement or the loss of a loved ones etc. I am open to suggestions.
3. Increase visibility by meeting with District Leaders, AFT and SEIU, the Academic and Classified Presidents and the heads of the foundations . I hope to: Spread the Word
Many of you know that VCCCDRA started out as a social organization. The purpose of the organization has expanded to include: oversight of medical benefits, scholarships for deserving students, awareness of issues that may occur that would effect retirees, a newsletter, blogs, new and improved web site,,, with more advances to come.
2026-2027 will be a year of challenges and opportunities. If you are not involved think about it- the rewards to you are immeasurable. Bring a friend to the social- what an opportunity to share ideas and connect.
I look forward to working with each of you in the next two years.
Mary Jones, President