On October 27, the Community College League of California (League) announced its selection of three outstanding California Community Colleges (CCC) alumni for the Distinguished Alumni Award during its Annual Convention. Among the recipients, Advaith Thampi, a graduate of Irvine Valley College (IVC), has been nominated by his peers and mentors to receive this prestigious recognition. The California Community College Distinguished Alumni Award honors and celebrates the achievements of individuals whose time at a California community college propelled them toward their educational aspirations and subsequent professional success. This accolade stands as a testament to their post- academic triumphs and their profound influence on the communities they serve.
“IVC is tremendously proud of Advaith Thampi’s dedication in serving fellow veterans and commitment to the transformative power of higher education,” said Dr. John Hernandez, President of Irvine Valley College.
Thampi who currently serves as a Stakeholder and Engagement Liaison for the Department of Veterans Affairs; Board of Veterans Appeals will be honored at a luncheon ceremony on Friday, Nov. 17, at the League's Annual Convention at the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells.
His nomination bio characterized his firm dedication as a veteran and advocate who embodies the military ethos "got your six" in civilian life. He was inspired by the events of 9/11, and after graduating high school in Bakersfield in 2005, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. Thampi served as a fixed-wing crew chief on C-130s from 2010, and excelled in systems support, aircraft operation, and maintenance while flying missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
In 2010, he was honorably discharged but faced the challenge of transitioning to civilian life. Thampi found solace and support at the IVC Veterans Services Center (VSC), which helped him reintegrate into civilian life and with VA benefits. He regularly volunteered at the VSC and participated in its expansion, demonstrating his commitment to fellow veterans. Thampi earned an associate degree in U.S. History at IVC, a bachelor of arts in political science from University of California, Irvine, and a juris doctorate from Chapman University.
In 2019, Thampi become an advocate for the American Legion, working with Congress as a veteran’s legislation advocate in Washington, D.C. He was instrumental in the passage of the PACT Act of 2022, which improved healthcare access and benefits to veterans exposed to toxics, particularly burn pits. The PACT Act also led to the establishment of new VA healthcare facilities, expanded healthcare eligibility, and enhanced research on toxic exposure. He continued his advocacy with the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, serving as a legislative counsel and senior advocate. The VSC at IVC inspired him to serve veterans, their families, survivors, and caregivers through public policy and advocacy. Thampi continues his engagement today, at IVC by mentoring veteran students. His journey underscores the transformative power of veteran support services within California Community Colleges.