Kern Community College District Announces Primavera Monarrez as Interim President of Porterville College

Bakersfield, CA--The Kern Community College District has appointed Primavera Monarrez as the Interim President of Porterville College.

Primavera Monarrez is a seasoned higher education professional with a distinguished twenty-year career in higher education encompassing both the two-year community college and four-year university landscapes. Her experience spans various roles, including administrator, manager, and area supervisor.

“I am honored to serve as Interim President of Porterville College,” said Ms. Monarrez. “I deeply respect PC’s legacy of excellence and unwavering dedication to student achievement. My experiences as a nontraditional student had a transformative impact on my life and launched my lifelong passion and dedication for the critical mission of higher education, specifically community colleges.”

Ms. Monarrez is a product of the California community college system and a first-generation college student, giving her a unique perspective in dealing with issues facing students in the central valley. She is a passionate leader who has demonstrated a deep commitment to student success placing students at the epicenter.

“The appointment of Primavera Monarrez as the Interim President of Porterville College is significant,” said Kern CCD Chancellor Steven Bloomberg.  “As we look to continue to build on the strengths of Porterville College, Primavera’s knowledge and first hand experience will ensure continuity and allow for a smooth transition during this time of change.”

Primavera Monarrez joined Porterville College in 2018 and has since served in several leadership roles, most recently as Vice President of Student Services at Porterville College (PC). Before PC, she held leadership positions at Taft College, Bakersfield College, and CSU, Bakersfield. 

Kern CCD Board of Trustees President John Corkins stated, “Porterville College is in the area I represent.  I have seen steady growth within the college, both with its student support programs and physical footprint.  It is an exciting time for PC and I have full confidence that with Primavera Monarrez serving as interim President, we will continue to see many successes.” 

Ms. Monarrez is a California State University, Bakersfield graduate with degrees in Sociology (BS) and Counseling/Student Affairs (MS). She passionately advocates for access to quality education and is deeply committed to the Central Valley, Tulare County, and Porterville communities.

Porterville College (PC), nestled in the heart of California’s Central Valley, is a two-year public community college offering a diverse range of associate degree and certificate programs. Founded in 1917, PC provides a wide range of associate degree and certificate programs and transfer pathways to four-year universities. The college is committed to providing affordable, high-quality educational opportunities to students in the surrounding communities. PC fosters a vibrant learning environment that empowers students to achieve academic goals and prepare for successful careers or transfer to four-year institutions.

Kern Community College District (Kern CCD) serves communities over 24,800 square miles in parts of Kern, Tulare, Inyo, Mono, and San Bernardino counties through the programs of Bakersfield College, Cerro Coso College and Porterville College. Governed by a locally elected Board of Trustees, the district's colleges offer programs and services that develop student potential and create opportunities for our citizens.