Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.
Crispina Calsada (Class of 1989), John Cabanilla (Class of 1997), Tammy Summers (Class of 1997), and Karla A. Sigmond (Attended 1981–1982), recognized as the 2026 IVC Foundation Hall of Fame inductees for their leadership, educational contributions, and lasting impact on their communities as distinguished Imperial Valley College alumni.
04/23/2026
From the classroom to the C-suite, from the court to the community, the 2026 Hall of Fame class reflects the far-reaching impact of Imperial Valley College alumni who are transforming lives through education, leadership and service.
The Imperial Valley College Foundation has announced its 2026 Hall of Fame inductees, recognizing four distinguished alumni whose journeys began at IVC and now span biotechnology, K-12 education, college governance and global biopharmaceutical leadership. The honorees will be celebrated at the annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the IVC Student Center (Building 600).
Organized by the IVC Foundation, the Hall of Fame honors alumni who have achieved professional excellence while giving back to their communities through mentorship, advocacy and service.
A first-generation college student from Niland, Crispina Calsada began her academic journey at IVC before earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from San Diego State University and an MBA from the University of Southern California.
She has built a global career in the biopharmaceutical and technology sectors, serving in executive leadership roles across the United States and Europe. As chief financial officer of Regulus Therapeutics, she helped guide the company through its $1.7 billion acquisition by Novartis.
Calsada is also a dedicated mentor and advocate for educational equity. She supports students through programs such as San Diego Squared and JA Fellows and serves on the board of Life Science Cares San Diego. She played a key role in strengthening philanthropic partnerships that support IVC students.
John Cabanilla, a former standout student-athlete, earned an associate degree in social science from IVC before completing his bachelor’s degree at Oakland City University, where he also contributed to a national championship basketball team.
At IVC, he was a two-time first-team all-conference basketball player and one of the program’s top three-point shooters. He later earned a teaching credential and a master’s degree in educational leadership.
For more than 25 years, Cabanilla has taught middle school social studies in the Imperial Unified School District, where he has also coached and mentored hundreds of students. His impact extends beyond the classroom, with many former students crediting his guidance in their academic and professional success.
A first-generation college graduate from El Centro, Tammy Summers earned associate degrees from IVC before transferring to UC San Diego, where she completed a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and cell biology. She later earned an MBA from the University of Phoenix.
Summers has built a career in biotechnology and in vitro diagnostics, holding roles in research, product development and leadership. She currently works with Guardant Health, supporting advancements in cancer diagnostics and leading client services training. In 2024, she founded Leadership Learners LLC, focusing on communication and leadership development for professionals and neurodivergent adults.
She remains active in community service through Soroptimist International of El Centro, the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce and Valley Life Church. At IVC, she has returned as an instructor, teaching Business 126, “Business in the Legal Environment.”
Karla Sigmond’s journey from migrant fieldwork to educational leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to service. After completing her studies at IVC, she pursued a career in K-12 education, serving as both a teacher and school principal.
Sigmond currently serves on the Imperial Valley College Board of Trustees and chairs the Imperial County First 5 Commission. She also supports youth and families as a foster parent resource. Her contributions have earned multiple recognitions, including honors from TRIO Alumni and Migrant Education programs.
Her time at IVC included involvement in MEChA, tutoring ESL students and supporting campus programs—experiences that shaped her dedication to education and community.
This event remains one of the college’s signature events, celebrating alumni who exemplify the values of leadership, perseverance and service.
Nominations for future Hall of Fame classes are accepted year-round, and community members are encouraged to submit deserving alumni for consideration.
The Imperial Valley College Foundation expands educational opportunities by building partnerships with businesses, alumni and community organizations. Proceeds from the Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala support scholarships, student services and student success initiatives.
For event details, tickets or nominations, contact the IVC Foundation at (760) 355-6113 or ivcfoundation@imperial.edu