Mission College Celebrates Dr. Lusyna Kim-Narvaez as 2026 Classified Employee of the Year Recipient
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SANTA CLARA, CA -- Mission College proudly celebrates Dr. Lusyna Kim-Narvaez, Program Analyst in the Office of Equity and Student Success and Adjunct Child Development Faculty, for being named a recipient of the 2026 California Community Colleges Classified Employee of the Year Award.
Presented by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors, the annual award
recognizes classified professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student
success, equity, leadership, and service in alignment with Vision 2030 and the mission
of California Community Colleges. This year, only six classified professionals from
across the state were selected to receive the honor.
Dr. Kim-Narvaez has served Mission College for nearly a decade, helping lead efforts
that advance equity, inclusion, and student success for historically underrepresented
students. Through her work in the Office of Equity and Student Success, she has played
an important role in shaping Mission College’s Student Equity Plan while developing
programs and strategies designed to remove barriers and expand opportunities for students.
Her leadership includes initiatives such as the Equity Ambassador Program and the
Classified Equity Certification Program, both of which help strengthen equity-minded
practices across campus. Along with managing the day-to-day operations of the Equity
Office, she mentors colleagues, supports onboarding efforts, and helps cultivate a
campus culture grounded in belonging, care, and community.
“I am deeply honored to receive the 2026 Classified Employee of the Year Award,” Dr. Kim-Narvaez said. “This recognition reflects the collective work of so many dedicated colleagues, students, and community members who continue to inspire me every day. At Mission College, we believe equity is not just a goal - it is a responsibility.”
Ken Songco, Dean of Equity and Student Success at Mission College, said Dr. Kim-Narvaez’s
leadership continues to leave a lasting impact across the institution.
“Lusyna is one of the hardest-working individuals on campus who understands that impact is not just about working harder, but about working smarter and sustainably,” Songco said. “She is an unwavering equity advocate who leads courageously while centering the needs of our most minoritized students. Our institution is better because of her leadership, her care, her presence, and her example.”
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Dr. Kim-Narvaez balances multiple roles
as a mother, doctoral candidate, part-time instructor, and campus leader while continuing
to model healthy boundaries, self-care, and sustainable leadership.
“I am grateful to be part of an institution that is committed to creating spaces where all students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed,” Dr. Kim-Narvaez said.
Award recipients are selected by representatives from the California Community Colleges
Board of Governors, Consultation Council, and the Chancellor’s Office. Each honoree
receives a commemorative plaque and a $750 cash award.
Dr. Kim-Narvaez was officially recognized during the May 19 California Community Colleges
Board of Governors meeting in Sacramento.
Mission College congratulates Dr. Lusyna Kim-Narvaez on this well-deserved statewide
recognition and thanks her for her continued dedication to students, equity, and transformational
leadership.
Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]
About Mission College
Mission College is a leading institution of higher education dedicated to providing
accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to succeed.
With a commitment to student success, equity, and innovation, Mission College offers
a diverse range of academic programs, exceptional faculty, and supportive services
to foster a thriving educational community.
Learn More About Mission