John Romo has been a resident of Santa Barbara for nearly 50 years, and served as president of Santa Barbara City College from 2002 to 2008.
John began his career at SBCC in 1977 as an instructor of essential skills and director of the Reading/Study Skills Center. He went on to hold the posts of dean of instructional services, vice president for academic affairs, and vice president for the Continuing Education Division. He served the college for more than 35 years.
From 1999 to 2002, John served as the chief operating officer for the National Office of Planned Parenthood in New York City.
Since retirement in 2008, John has continued to work with community colleges serving as an executive search consultant assisting districts in recruiting and hiring college executives.
John has also made involvement and giving back to the community among his top priorities. He has served on numerous boards at the local, state, and national level. He currently serves as the chairman emeritus of the board for Direct Relief, an international humanitarian nonprofit.
John and his wife Mary are extremely proud of their two sons, Dan and Ben, and value every moment they can spend with their three beautiful and intelligent grandchildren Max, Mia, and Ruby.
