Kelsey Mayeda knows firsthand the impact of a community college education. As a California Community College alumna, she understands the meaningful role the institutions play in shaping a student’s journey.
“I knew that I wanted to be a part of that journey for future students. Choosing to go to a community college was one of the best decisions I made in my life. I had the freedom and opportunity to explore who I was and what I wanted to do.”
Kelsey attended Chabot College for two years and was a member of their award-winning Forensics (Speech and Debate) Team. She went on to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree from California State University (CSU), Sacramento and a master’s degree from CSU, Long Beach in communication studies.
Her academic journey paved the way for a decade of teaching at community colleges across California. After returning to the Bay Area, she was drawn to DVC’s communication studies department, making it her top choice when seeking a teaching position.
“I am so glad that I found my way to DVC, it has been one of the most supportive campuses I’ve worked at, not only for students but for faculty and staff as well.”
Kelsey joined DVC’s San Ramon campus in 2018 as an adjunct communication studies instructor. In 2021, she became the Faculty Tutoring Coordinator, where she played a key role in bringing the Library/Academic Support Center (L/ASC) to life.
“Working in the L/ASC sparked my interest in student services, so when the opportunity arose last year to take on a new role as the Senior Program Coordinator of Student Services and Basic Needs, I jumped at the chance, and I am so glad that I did.”
What does Kelsey enjoy most about her new role? “Connecting students with the services they need to succeed has been incredibly fulfilling.” Kelsey adds that a top priority in her new position is expanding services for San Ramon students.
“I want to ensure that students have access to the resources they need easily and efficiently regardless of which campus they are on.”
To support this goal, she launched the “Connection Corner,” partnering with student services offices at the Pleasant Hill campus to bring regular office hours to San Ramon.
Additionally, Kelsey has expanded basic needs resources for San Ramon students, introducing refrigerated food lockers that provide convenient access to free grocery items from the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.
She says what really inspires her every day is the students she’s serving. “When I teach, I am inspired as I watch students come out of their shells and grow as speakers and communicators. When I’m in my office meeting with students about their struggles - housing, food, mental health, and family stressors, I’m inspired by their drive and perseverance. Working with students who want to learn and become the best versions of themselves keeps me going.”
Learn more about student support services at DVC San Ramon!
