Welcome

By Mark Muckenfuss

Educational leaders from Cal State Monterey Bay and Monterey Peninsula College celebrated a new agreement between the two schools at a morning signing ceremony on Monday, March 24, at the CSUMB University Center. 

The Lobo Otter Pathway Program will smooth the transition for students earning an associate degree at MPC who wish to transfer to CSUMB and is targeted toward students who do not meet the requirements to attend a CSU after high school or who are returning to school after an extended break. CSUMB recently entered a similar agreement with Hartnell College.

CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones said the new program will “provide local high school students with a clear, supportive roadmap to complete their associate degree for transfer and continue their education at Cal State Monterey Bay.”

She said the agreement was one more way in which MPC and CSUMB are teaming up. 

“Together, we are making a difference,” she said. “Together, we are making incredible strides in strengthening the educational pipeline in our region.”

Marshall T. Fulbright III, MPC’s president and superintendent, said the cooperative effort was an example of reinvigorating historical ties between the two schools. 

“We’re bringing back to life what had been the norm years ago,” Fulbright said. 

He said the new program shows the commitment both schools have in improving not only students’ lives, but the larger community as well. 

“Creating a better future is not just about having a vision, it’s about taking action,” he said. “It’s about showing students that they can [succeed], and that we believe in them from the start, that they belong in higher education, and we will be walking with them every step of the way.”

He turned toward Quiñones.

“Your vision, your commitment are inspiring,” he said, adding that he appreciated the dedication and collaboration of other CSUMB administrators who had worked with their counterparts at MPC to finalize the agreement. 

“I will join your raft if you will join our pack,” he said.

The new program allows students to apply to both schools simultaneously with one application. With guaranteed admission to CSUMB, students will have a clear pathway to earning an associate degree and going on to pursue a bachelor’s degree.  

The two schools collaborated in recent years on a nursing program that allows students to concurrently enroll in both institutions and complete an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2½ years. Quiñones said she looked forward to more collaboration with MPC in the future.

“I’m hoping the door we’re opening will remain open so we can provide more opportunities for our students,” she said.