Joe Garcia

09/17/2025

The CNCC flight training program is one of the best in the nation. Check it out. It’s worth the drive.

08/07/2025

The Sturgis rally is a great place to see interesting custom bikes and to ride beautiful roads but there are also some great hiking options like Black Elk Mountain and Bear Butte. I’m glad I got to enjoy all of it.

06/27/2025

Thank you to The Colorado Sun for the opportunity to share my perspective on how we can—and must—invest in Colorado’s future by expanding access to education and opportunity for all.

Our future depends on it.

Talent is found in all our Colorado communities and ethnic groups. But while talent is universal, opportunity is not.

06/24/2025

Earlier this month, I attended my final board meeting as Chancellor of the Colorado Community College System. It’s been an incredible journey working alongside so many dedicated people committed to student success and expanding opportunities across our state.

I’m deeply grateful for the chance to serve, lead, and learn from this amazing community. As I prepare to retire on June 30, 2025, I want to thank every student, faculty member, staff, and partner who has been part of this journey. Together, we have made a difference.

I look forward to what’s next with a full heart and appreciation for the work still ahead for CCCS.

Earlier this month, Chancellor Joe Garcia attended his final board meeting as leader of the Colorado Community College System, closing a remarkable career dedicated to higher education and public service.

Since joining CCCS in 2018, Chancellor Garcia has been a visionary force, championing student success, expanding access, and driving innovation statewide. His leadership strengthened institutions, built meaningful partnerships, and launched transformative programs like Bridge to Bachelor's and Colorado Online.

As Chancellor Garcia prepares to retire on June 30, 2025, we celebrate his lasting legacy and deeply thank him for his commitment to students, faculty, and communities across Colorado.

05/22/2025

Yesterday afternoon, I took part in Tepeyac Community Health Center's annual Tortillas for Tepeyac fundraiser—and was named the 2025 Tortilla Titan!

A big thank you to Tepeyac Community Health Center for hosting such a fun and meaningful event!

04/11/2025

I’m incredibly honored by the Colorado General Assembly’s recognition and grateful for the kind words from my colleagues at CCCS.

It’s been a privilege to serve students, educators, and communities across this great state—and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together. The work continues, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Reflecting on a bipartisan legacy of expanding access, fostering partnerships, and championing equity in Colorado education

02/13/2025

After more than 35 years in public service and higher education, I am announcing my plans to retire as Chancellor of the Colorado Community College System, effective June 30, 2025.

Serving CCCS has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together—from launching the Bridge to Bachelor’s transfer program and Colorado Online to expanding opportunities for students across our state. It has also been a privilege to support and hire 11 of CCCS’s 13 current college presidents, ensuring strong leadership for our system’s future.

Beyond CCCS, my journey has taken me through roles as Colorado’s Lieutenant Governor, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and President of WICHE. At every step, my commitment to equity and access in education has remained unwavering.

While this chapter is coming to a close, my passion for advancing education and opportunity will never fade. Thank you to the incredible colleagues, students, and partners who have made this work so meaningful.

Read more about my journey and reflections here: https://cccs.edu/press-releases/cccs-chancellor-joe-garcia-announces-planned-retirement/

11/21/2024

Community colleges are a critical source of talented and motivated students, and "elite" universities will benefit from recruiting them.

Since the Supreme Court gutted affirmative action, racial diversity has dropped.

11/12/2024

I was honored to participate in Pikes Peak State College's Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony yesterday, a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans within the CCCS community and beyond. Growing up in a military family, I know firsthand the commitment, resilience, and strength that our service members bring to every aspect of their lives.

Thank you to the PPSC Student Veteran Organization for organizing this meaningful event, and to all who joined us in honoring those who have served. Your dedication and sacrifice do not go unnoticed.

11/04/2024

Thank you, Dr. Mordecai, for your leadership at CCA and for your service at the national level on the Board of HACU.

So grateful for the leadership of the Colorado Community College System Chancellor, Joe Garcia CCCS. Yesterday, he delivered an insightful keynote address at the HACU - Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Latino Student Success Institute Luncheon.

09/18/2024

I have flown with CNCC instructors and they are great. This program is definitely worth the drive!

Soar to new heights with CNCC’s Flight Program! Dreaming of a career in aviation? Or maybe you just want to experience the freedom of flying? Look no further than Colorado Northwestern Community College’s Flight Program! We offer comprehensive training that prepares you for the skies. Visit: https://cncc.edu/degrees/cte/aviation-tech/index to learn more.