As IVC’s seventh president, it is my privilege to lead a college dedicated to expanding opportunity, fostering innovation, and empowering students to reach their full potential. For more than 40 years, IVC has provided pathways to higher education, career advancement, and lifelong learning. Whether pursuing transfer, workforce training, professional growth, or personal enrichment, our students are supported by a caring campus community committed to their success. On behalf of our faculty, staff, and students, I am pleased to welcome you to Irvine Valley College.
IVC serves more than 23,000 students annually from across Southern California and more than 38 countries. From recent high school graduates to working professionals, career changers, military veterans, and adult learners returning to college, our students come to IVC to pursue new opportunities, develop in-demand skills, and achieve their educational aspirations.
We offer more than 90 associate degrees and over 70 certificate programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and advanced technologies, with flexible options for in-person, online, and hybrid learning. We are proud to be recognized as #1 in transfers in Orange County to the University of California system. In addition, we have helped thousands of students achieve their educational goals. One in three IVC students is the first in their family to earn a college degree or certificate.
Each year, IVC students continue their educational journeys at universities throughout California and across the nation, including all nine University of California campuses, numerous California State University campuses, and distinguished public and private institutions such as Yale University, Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Georgetown University, New York University, and the University of Michigan.
To support our students and community for generations to come, we are investing in the future. In Spring 2025, construction began on two transformational projects: a new Student Services Center and Student Union. Together, these LEED Gold-equivalent facilities will serve as the heart of campus, centralizing student support services while creating new spaces for connection, engagement, events, and student life. Completion is expected in Fall 2027, followed by a redesigned central campus quad in Spring 2028.
Other exciting developments continue to enhance the student experience. Our Arts Promenade is now open, and the Promenade Café is anticipated to open in Fall 2026. At IVC at ATEP in Tustin, we continue to expand career education opportunities that align with regional workforce needs and prepare students for high-demand careers.
Our campus community offers dynamic and engaging experiences beyond the classroom. With more than 60 active clubs and organizations, a thriving esports program, and standout athletics, student life at IVC is vibrant and inclusive. Our growing dual enrollment programs provide high school students with opportunities to earn college credit and get a head start on their academic goals. The Spot, our Basic Needs Center, helps ensure students have access to essential resources such as food, clothing, and housing support.
IVC offers exceptional value. First-time, full-time students may qualify for free tuition through the Irvine Valley Promise, which also includes bookstore vouchers, dedicated counseling, and personalized support. Compared to private colleges and public universities, IVC provides a high-quality education at a significantly lower cost, helping students achieve their goals while minimizing debt.
If you are exploring what IVC has to offer, I invite you to browse our website. Whether you are graduating from high school, returning to college after time away, advancing your career, or pursuing a new passion, you will find a welcoming, innovative, and student-centered community here to help you reach your goals.
We look forward to welcoming you to Irvine Valley College.
John C. Hernandez, Ph.D.
President
Irvine Valley College