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.
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Interim Director of Basic Needs and Student Housing Elizabeth Sanchez-Reyna is an experienced higher education professional with a strong commitment to supporting disproportionately impacted students. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with an emphasis in College Counseling & Student Development from Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from San Diego State University–Imperial Valley (SDSU-IV) Campus. Her academic journey began at Imperial Valley College (IVC), where she earned an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Psychology and was actively involved as a member of the IVC Desert Warriors. Over the past 12 years, Elizabeth has worked extensively with students facing various challenges, dedicating the last 8 years of her career to supporting student success at Imperial Valley College. Throughout her career, she has also worked closely with student equity programs to promote access, inclusion, and success for all students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Elizabeth is committed to supporting IVC Students by building upon the resources that
can help our students thrive. You can contact her at elizabeth.sanchez@imperial.edu
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Clarissa Chipress is an Outreach Specialist for Student Equity & Achievement. She
began her journey at Imperial Valley College in September 2021. Clarissa was born
and raised here in Imperial Valley and graduated from Calexico Highschool in 2013.
She is an alumna from Imperial Valley College Class of 2015 and from San Diego State
University-IV Campus Class of 2017 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Clarissa
currently graduated from San Diego State University-San Diego with her Master's degree
in Education with a focus in Counseling and with two certificates in Restorative Justice
practices and Trauma-informed care. Clarissa is here to serve students and support
them in their academic journey here at Imperial Valley College. You can contact her
at clarissa.chipress@imperial.edu
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Sara is an Outreach Specialist for the Student Equity and Achievement Department.
Sara has been with us since 2015. She has worked at the Counseling Center and the
DSPS program in addition to collaborating and assisting other IVC departments.
Sara grew up in Mexicali and knows the struggles of someone living on the border. She understands the need for resources and the importance of support to underserved populations. She is an alumna of IVC, received her Bachelor's Degree in Human Services from Columbia College and is currently working on her MSW at Western New Mexico University. She loves helping students and staff overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. You can contact her at sara.gonzalez@imperial.edu |
John is a SEA Specialist in Student Equity and Achievement. His primary focus is the Basic Needs Center, which supports students experiencing challenges ranging from homelessness and food insecurity to lack of access to technology and textbooks. John has been in this position for the past three years. John graduated with his Associate's Degree in Psychology from Imperial Valley College. He then went on to earn his Bachelors Degree in Psychology; and most recently a Master's of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University. Go Aztecs!!! As a Specialist in the Basic Needs Center, John strives to understand every students' unique situation and challenges; and seeks to creatively and promptly assist the student in resolving the issues at hand. Do not hesitate to stop him if you see him on campus. He is committed to the success of the diverse student population that he works with every day. You can reach out to john at john.moreno@imperial.edu |
Rafael is our Program Specialist for our Restorative Justice Program (formerly IVC Prison Program). After earning his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University, Rafael came on board ready to expand access to basic needs on campus. In his role, he directly supports students that have been Justice Impacted, formerly incarcerated, and those that participate in our Inside/Out Program (Local County Jail students with outside students), our Prison Program, and Juvenile Hall. Rafael comes with experience and a background in Basic Needs while working in various positions. He has been instrumental since the start and been a lead worker in our Food Pantry. He is dedicated and committed to students ensuring that their needs are met to succeed at IVC. Rafael's hobbies include Taco and Barbecue competitions, listening to and playing music. You can contact at rafael.montano@imperial.edu |
Luis is a Program Specialist for our Restorative Justice Program (formerly IVC Prison Program). After earning his Certificate and associate degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies, He is continuing his education in Psychology and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Luis actively works to incorporate the unique needs of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students into the California Community College system and its equity initiatives. Luis has thirteen years of experience working at Imperial Valley College. Luis has experience working with programs like, E.O.P.S program, Counseling Center as a Student Services Technician and just recently came from working in the Military & Veteran Success Center. Luis is very passionate about working with Special Population groups. You can contact him at luis.rivera@imperial.edu |
Alejandra Diaz, an alumna of Imperial Valley College, is deeply committed to empowering students at every stage of their academic journey. She is passionate about guiding new and continuing students toward the programs, services, and opportunities that support their educational success. A sincere dedication to student achievement and a strong belief in the transformative power of accessible resources and personalized support drive Alejandra's work. With a keen interest in data and reporting, Alejandra approaches her role with a blend of analytical skill and compassion. She values understanding each student’s unique circumstances and works diligently to provide guidance tailored to their needs. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Alejandra enjoys spending time with her family and loves desserts. Her genuine care for students, combined with her enthusiasm for continuous learning and improvement, defines her commitment to the IVC community. |
