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Orange Coast College Dean of Students Dr. Derek Vergara is the recipient of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Region VI Community College Professional Award for 2022. Dr. Vergara was recognized at a virtual awards ceremony on Nov. 14.
“This [award] is presented to an individual who has demonstrated active involvement with the profession, NASPA, and community college research, policies and/or practice,” says Region VI Awards Chair Jennifer Pagala Barnett. “Nominees must show evidence of contributing to the creation of a campus environment that promotes student learning and development, as well as to providing innovative and responsive services that address student needs.”
A member of NASPA since 1987, Dr. Vergara credits the organization with benefitting his development as a student affairs professional. “Engaging within a wide network of student affairs professionals throughout the country and learning about relevant best practices in student affairs has helped me become a more skilled practitioner and educator,” he says. “I have had the opportunity to serve on committees and contribute to scholarly research and journals, all of which has helped me to grow professionally.”
Dr. Vergara has been at Coast since 2013. He has served in various roles, including as Dean of Title IX and Student relations, where he helped develop Title IX protocols, working to ensure that students have the opportunity to safely report and to receive care and support resources if they experience any forms of harassment, sexual assault, or other gender-based discrimination or violence. In his current role as Dean of Students, Dr. Vergara was instrumental in the planning of OCC’s new Student Union, which provides a space for student clubs and organizations to meet formally, as well as provides a place for students to study, meet new friends, or simply to sit, relax, and recharge after a busy school day.
“Dr. Vergara’s commitment to students and Orange Coast College is exemplary,” says Vice President of Student Services Madjid Niroumand. “His leadership philosophy and student success advocacy have been instrumental in the continuous enhancement of the areas he oversees. We are happy to have him as a critical member of the Student Services leadership team.”
