WHITTIER – Río Hondo College student Marcela Rodas, who is studying English and psychology, has been chosen as the 2020-21 student trustee by Río Hondo College.

Rodas, a 2017 graduate of Los Altos School in Hacienda Heights, said her goal is to provide the perspective of students to the Board of Trustees, which governs the community college district.

“My goal is to bring a student voice on the important issues that are facing Río Hondo College, including equity, the pandemic and our budget-related challenges,” Rodas said. “We’re all in this together.”

Rodas has attended Río Hondo College since fall 2017. In 2019-20, she served as senator at-large for the Associated Students of Río Hondo College (ASRHC). Her work included assisting with ASRHC events. She is also a member of the College’s Extended Opportunity Program & Services, which provides support to students who face economic barriers to their success. In the coming year, she also hopes to participate on the College’s award-winning Forensics Speech and Debate Team.

Rodas said she was inspired to seek the position by Diana Laureano, who was student trustee in 2018-19. Rodas expects to receive her Associate of Arts degree in 2020-21 and transfer to a four-year university. Among her top choices are UCLA and UC Santa Barbara.

“We are extraordinarily fortunate to have a person of Marcela’s caliber joining our Board of Trustees,” Superintendent Dr. Arturo Reyes said. “She will bring a voice representing so many of our students who have overcome significant barriers in their pursuit of their education, and ensure we continue to provide them with the support and services they need to succeed.”

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RHC_Trustee_1: Río Hondo College student Marcela Rodas, who is studying English and psychology, has been chosen as the 2020-21 student trustee by Río Hondo College.