For Larry Galizio, PhD, SBCC was the catalyst for his decision to pursue a career in higher education. Today, Larry is the president and CEO of the Community College League of California where he advocates for and supports all 113 California community colleges.
Who: Larry Galizio, PhD
Profession: President and CEO, Community College League of California
How long were you at SBCC? 1981-1982
What was your focus while at SBCC? From a purely academic standpoint, my focus was on doing well enough in my general education courses to transfer successfully to a UC institution. However my larger focus and purpose was to counterbalance my overzealous focus on sports and socializing in high school and to become a responsible and productive citizen.
Best Memory? Apart from the sheer beauty of the area and being on the coast, it was the intellectual inspiration and learning that was stimulated by the fantastic faculty at SBCC.
How did the SBCC experience influence your professional path? My experience at SBCC was the catalyst for my decision to pursue a career in higher education.
What are you doing now? I serve as president and CEO of the Community College League of California. The League is responsible for advocating and supporting all 113 California community colleges.
How are you making an impact on the world? As the League’s mission is to advocate and strengthen California’s community colleges, we are helping our 113 colleges in their comprehensive mission of providing opportunity for all Californians to position themselves for a richer and more fulfilling life.
Why is SBCC an important educational institution for the Santa Barbara community? Not only is it an exceptional public institution of higher education, but it is a cornerstone of the community with innumerable benefits to area residents.
Are you proud to be a Vaquero Alumni? I am. As the catalyst for my undergraduate experience culminating in a degree from UC Berkeley, my graduate work leading to a PhD, and my career as a community college faculty member, program director, and ultimately college president, SBCC has been central to a lifetime of opportunities to pursue higher learning and a fulfilling career.
