Programs
Overview
The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) advances equitable excellence
across the District through intentional programming, cultural events, and professional
development. Our work is guided by the needs, voices, and experiences of our diverse
employees and student population.
Rancho Academy is a yearlong pipeline program led by RSCCD’s Human Resources Department,
through the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI). The program spans nine
months and meets once a month, providing a structured, long-term learning experience
for participants interested in preparing for part-time faculty roles.
A highly regarded component of the Academy is its mentorship model. Participants are paired with full-time faculty members from similar disciplines and receive tailored guidance, practical tips, and recommendations to strengthen their competitiveness as applicants. Mentors also support their mentees in preparing to teach a course, an essential requirement for completing the Academy.
The program culminates in a districtwide job fair, where departments have the opportunity to connect with prospective adjunct faculty to help meet instructional needs for the upcoming semesters. As a strategic hiring tool, Rancho Academy expands RSCCD’s applicant pool while supporting a more diverse and representative workforce that reflects the district’s student population.
The Academy focuses on strengthening the professional skills of emerging educators and future campus leaders while promoting diversification across key roles in the district. Monthly sessions cover topics such as the California Community College system, leadership development, student-centered pedagogy, equity-minded practices, and pathways into adjunct faculty employment.
Themes covered:
- Introduction to RSCCD and Shared Governance
- Student Diversity and Demographics
- Racial, Social, and Cultural Competency
- Student-Centered Pedagogy and Inclusive Teaching
- Using Backwards Design and TILT to Create Transparent, Aligned, and Equitable Courses
- Syllabus Creation and Curriculum Development
- Understanding Student Support Services
- Nontraditional Students
- Credit vs. Non-Credit and Career & Technical Education (CTE)
- Job Announcements and Application Preparation
- CV/Resume building and Interview Tips
- Online Teaching and Technology in Education
- Advancing Equity with Generative AI
The Rancho Academy accepts applications year-around. Application review for July 2026 begins on Monday, July 6th. Any applications received before July 6th will be reviewed to be considered for the 2026-2027 cohort. Applicants will receive notice of their application status by July 31st.
The first cohort session will begin on Wednesday, August 26th.
Hybrid model, 6 sessions online and 2 sessions in-person. In-person meetings will be offered in Santiago Canyon College and Santa Ana College campuses. Meetings will be the third Wednesday of every month from 3pm to 6pm.
Rancho Academy participants will meet with their mentors in the Spring term of every academic year.
- A graduate student or recent (MA, MS, Doctorate) graduate;
- Highly motivated in seeking a career in the California Community College system (faculty) and meets the Minimum Qualifications in the academic or vocational subject area as specified by the 2025 Chancellor's Office Minimum Qualifications Handbook;
- Commitment to completing the synchronous and asynchronous 9-month hybrid (August-May,) training program on and active engagement with the assigned mentor;
- Complete all follow-up sessions and submit all deliverables as directed by ODEI.
- RSCCD Online Application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume – details all relevant education, training, and teaching experience (including courses taught), and other work experience.
- Academic Transcripts (unofficial copies are accepted)
Questions?:
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Emelyne Camacho (camacho_emelyne@rsccd.edu) or directly to our program email (ranchoacademy@rsccd.edu).
Promotional Success is a cohort-based professional development program for RSCCD Classified employees who are interested in advancing their careers. The program provides in-person sessions, guidance, and skill-building activities focused on career growth. Find out more information here: Promotional Success Program FAQ’s
Program duration: One Academic Year September 2026- May 2027
June-August Promotional Success Academy Cohort 2 Applications open
End of August: Cohort 2 applicants selected and notified
September-May: Promotional Success Academy Sessions in progress
May 2027: Promotional Success Academy Cohort 2 Certificate Ceremony
Promotional Success sessions will be held in person and will rotate across RSCCD campuses, with locations announced in advance. Participants should plan to commit approximately three hours per month for the duration of the program. This includes attending one monthly in-person session, as well as completing any required reflection or preparation activities.
Eligible participants must be Classified employees who have completed at least one year of service at RSCCD, obtained management approval, and are able to commit approximately three hours per month to the program.
Cultural programming is a core pillar of ODEI’s mission because it creates meaningful opportunities for connection, learning, and belonging across our RSCCD community. By elevating diverse histories, identities, and lived experiences, cultural programming helps foster understanding, encourages dialogue, and strengthens psychological safety. These programs not only celebrate the richness of our community, but also build cultural competency, helping employees engage respectfully and collaboratively in a diverse workplace. Through intentional cultural events and learning experiences, ODEI supports an environment where all individuals feel seen, valued, and included.
Take a look at the events calendar for upcoming events. View the photo gallery for images of our past events.
