The Valley College Connection

Scott Weigand

Be Inspired! Welcome to The Valley College Connection, where Scott Weigand and a rotating team of Valley College hosts engage in conversations about success with educators, students, and community members. Each episode features a guest who shares how they planned, persevered, and overcame challenges to get where they are today. The show also highlights the programs, services, and supports that make a difference in students’ lives at Los Angeles Valley College. The Valley College Connection is produced by KVCM Monarch Radio at Los Angeles Valley College. www.lavc.edu/kvcm

  1. 11/26/2025

    Interview with Dr. Barry Gribbons, President of LA Valley College

    Shared on behalf of KVCM, this episode of the Valley College Connection, this episode features President Dr. Barry Gibbons as he spotlights the college’s focus on access, equity, and student success for all learners. He discusses the expanding dual enrollment and Promise efforts that remove enrollment fees and help thousands of local high school students transition directly into college. Dr. Gibbons also offers a first look at transformative new facilities like the Valley Academic and Cultural Center, Valley Academic Hall, and Sage Hall, and explains how they support high-impact CTE programs and a vibrant on-campus experience.

    48 min

  2. 11/06/2025

    Interview with Pamela Villaseñor, Executive Director of Pukúu Cultural Community Services

    In this episode—co-hosted by Dr. Alex Ojeda—we’re joined by Pamela Villaseñor, Executive Director of Pukúu Cultural Community Services, founded by members of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians. We explore how Pukúu advances Indigenous empowerment through culturally grounded community services and scholarships, housing initiatives for Native elders, and youth-led advocacy such as policy work around Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples. The conversation also highlights Indigenous Peoples Day, the purpose of land acknowledgments, and ways colleges like Los Angeles Valley College can honor Indigenous land, language, and culture through authentic partnership. If you’re interested in building lasting campus–community collaborations, this episode offers a clear and hopeful roadmap.

    44 min

  3. 06/05/2025

    Podcast with Rising Scholars: Support, Impact, and Second Chances at LAVC

    In this episode, we spotlight the Rising Scholars Program at Los Angeles Valley College, which provides guidance, resources, and a supportive community for students impacted by the justice system. Learn how the program is making a meaningful impact on our campus and beyond.

    45 min

  4. 05/28/2025

    Interview with Dr. Barry Gribbons, President of Los Angeles Valley College

    Shared on behalf of LAVC’s KVCM Radio show Way Out West, this episode features Los Angeles Valley College President Dr. Barry Gribbons as he reflects on current college initiatives, including the development of new campus buildings, and reaffirms his commitment to student success and long-term campus growth.

    25 min

  5. 04/02/2025

    Hpri "Rip" Geru-Maa (MBA), Office Assistant-Umoja Black Scholars

    Join us on the Valley College Connection podcast for an inspiring conversation with Hpri "Rip" Geru-Maa, Office Assistant for the Umoja Black Scholars Program. In this episode, Rip shares his powerful journey—from growing up in a large family and overcoming personal hardships to finding his passion in education and mentorship. Rip discusses the importance of culturally relevant engagement, community support, and the transformative impact of programs likeUmoja. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on resilience, advocacy, and the role of education in shaping lives.

    40 min

  6. 03/13/2025

    Edgar Perez, Professor of ESL, Academic Senate President

    Dive into the inspiring journey of Professor Edgar Perez on the Valley College Connection podcast! Discover how he overcame challenges as an undocumented immigrant and rose to leadership roles at Los Angeles Valley College. Tune in for valuable insights on education, resilience, and community engagement.

    53 min

  7. 11/21/2024

    Nat Guerrero: Counselor/Coordinator LAVC Rainbow Pride Center

    Nat's work focuses on inclusion, connection, and empowering students to embrace who they are. Listen in as she shares highlights from her own academic journey and the vital role the Rainbow Pride Center plays in building community, supporting mental health, and fostering an inclusive campus for students and staff at LAVC.

    43 min

  8. 05/30/2023

    Dr. Alex Ojeda, Coordinator Next Up/Guardian Scholars

    Dr. Alex Ojeda's work at Valley College is focused on supporting current and former foster youth attending Valley College. Listen to his personal story and find out how his doctorate degree helped to open the doors that incarceration closed. Produced/Edited by Ozzie Flamenco

    55 min
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About

Be Inspired! Welcome to The Valley College Connection, where Scott Weigand and a rotating team of Valley College hosts engage in conversations about success with educators, students, and community members. Each episode features a guest who shares how they planned, persevered, and overcame challenges to get where they are today. The show also highlights the programs, services, and supports that make a difference in students’ lives at Los Angeles Valley College. The Valley College Connection is produced by KVCM Monarch Radio at Los Angeles Valley College. www.lavc.edu/kvcm

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