Ventura College president, Dr Luca Lewis, speaks with Our Ventura TV host, Sandra Siepak about his leadership journey, vision, and strategic goals for the institution following its 100th anniversary.
Leadership & Background: Dr. Lewis holds a PhD in Higher Education Administration along with degrees from the University of Idaho. After joining Ventura College as Vice President of Student Affairs, he served in acting and interim roles before taking over as permanent president.
Student Focus & Support: His primary focus centers on “entry, progression, and completion,” ensuring students receive strong academic, career, and financial support. He emphasizes the affordability of the California Community College system, including financial aid and promise programs, to offset educational costs.
Academic Programs & Innovation: Ventura College provides flexible schedule options (online, hybrid, evening, weekend) to support its 75% part-time student population. Programs span healthcare, criminal justice, advanced manufacturing, and a bachelor’s degree path in automotive technology.
Future Initiatives:
- On-Campus Housing: The college plans to offer affordable student housing within the next two years.
- Expansion & Partnerships: The institution aims to expand outreach, particularly in the East Campus (Santa Paula, Fillmore, Santa Clara River Valley), through strategic planning with local industry, K–12, and university partners.
- Community Engagement: Dr. Lewis intends to conduct community-driven listening sessions over the coming year to tailor college offerings to regional needs. He also maintains an accessible, open-door policy on campus.
TV broadcast week beginning 08/30/26
Producer: George Alger
Sponsor: NONPROFIT FIRE, Google Ad Grants Community Building NonProfitFire.org
Sponsor: SKYWORKS MARKETING, Performance Advertising SkyworksMarketing.com