College of the Desert is in the middle of one of the most exciting periods in its 50-year history since being founded in 1958. Our new Cravens Student Services building opened in June 2010 and the Barker Nursing Complex, the Public Safety Academy and the Alumni Centre opened last year. In addition, many of our existing buildings will undergo complete renovation and our infrastructure – all those underground pipes and wires and the related machinery that generates heating, cooling, water and power – are being replaced. The college broke ground on a new classroom building in June 2010 and there's more construction to come.

It’s all part of Measure B, a $346.5 million bond issue approved by voters in 2004. After much careful planning and design work, we entered into the physical construction phase in December 2007 and that work will continue for several more years. There will be some minor inconveniences for a time, but the end result will be well worth it! After 50 years, we are building a totally renovated college campus that will serve our communities for the next half-century!

College of the Desert is first and foremost about students and this year we are continuing to focus on student success and achievement. Although the state's financial crisis has impacted our operating budget, we are working hard to protect the academic programs and support services that our students depend on. We are also planning proactively in the areas of the arts, healthcare, public safety, tourism, and green technology, to prepare students to create and sustain the economic engine that drives the Coachella Valley. President Obama himself said, "Community colleges are an essential part of our recovery in the present - and our prosperity in the future." Now more than ever, COD plays an essential role in maintaining the high standard of living that we enjoy.

It is my privilege to extend to you a warm welcome and invite you to attend our college. College of the Desert (COD) is poised to grow and expand beyond the dreams of those visionaries who founded the college in 1958 and opened its doors in 1962. We continue to open doors, both literally and figuratively. Come join us.

Jerry R. Patton, President
September 2010