February 20, 2025 (Napa, CA) – The Napa Valley Community College District Board of Trustees has unanimously adopted Resolution No. 25-02, reaffirming its commitment to protecting and supporting immigrant, undocumented, Dreamer, and LGBTQ+ students. This action underscores the college’s dedication to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environment for all students, regardless of their background or identity.
In adopting this resolution, the Board of Trustees reaffirms its long-standing position against discrimination and bias, building on previous resolutions that denounce hate, promote inclusivity, and advocate for the rights of marginalized students. Resolution No. 25-02 ensures that all students, regardless of immigration status, gender identity, or sexual orientation, will have unrestricted access to Napa Valley College’s educational programs and services.
“On behalf of the Napa Valley College Board of Trustees, we are proud to reaffirm our commitment to protect those in our college community who are most at risk for discrimination, oppression, and violence, including those from historically marginalized and underrepresented communities. Specifically, we pledge our unwavering support for immigrant, undocumented, Dreamer, and LGBTQ+ students so that they may safely pursue a post-secondary education at Napa Valley College,” said Jeni Olsen, President of the Board of Trustees. “Napa Valley College will continue to work together with our community partners to address challenges that lie ahead, provide additional support and services for students in need, and foster an environment where everyone belongs, is included, and feels safe.”
Trustee Jennifer Baker continued, “This resolution does two things. First, it reaffirms that our policies and practices are in compliance with existing civil rights law. Second, it makes a statement about what we value, which is our commitment to equity and inclusion in how we serve and support students and staff. Nothing has changed and nothing will change. We stand in solidarity with our most vulnerable populations and will continue to support our entire community doing what we do best: education.”
Key Provisions of Resolution No. 25-02:
- Upholding Open Access – Ensuring that all students have unrestricted access to classes and student services as protected under Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations.
- Protecting Student Privacy – Safeguarding student information under FERPA and state laws to prevent discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
- Fostering Inclusivity – Implementing policies and programs that promote a culturally competent, safe, and supportive campus community.
- Providing Essential Resources – Expanding academic, financial, legal, and mental health support services tailored to the needs of immigrant, undocumented, Dreamer, and LGBTQ+ students.
- Strengthening Community Partnerships – Collaborating with local organizations, legal advocates, and community leaders to enhance support services for students.
The Board’s action comes amid ongoing national and state discussions surrounding immigration policies and LGBTQ+ rights. By adopting this resolution, Napa Valley College reaffirms its leadership in championing social justice, anti-racism, and equity within the California Community College system.
“Napa Valley College will continue to be a place where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to pursue their academic and career aspirations,” said Dr. Torence Powell, Superintendent/President at Napa Valley College “We are proud to stand in support of our immigrant and LGBTQ+ students in this critical moment.”
The resolution will be prominently displayed and shared with students, faculty, staff, and community members as a testament to the college’s unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion.
To read the Napa Valley Community College District Resolution No. 25-02: Resolution of the Board of Trustees of Napa Valley Community College District Protecting Access to Public Education for Immigrant and LGBTQ+ students, visit BoardDocs.
About Napa Valley College
Napa Valley College prepares students for evolving roles in a diverse, dynamic, and interdependent world. The college is an accredited open-access, degree-and certificate-granting institution committed to student achievement through high-quality programs and services that are continuously evaluated and improved. The college serves students and the community in transfer courses; career-technical education and training; basic skills; and self-supporting contract education and community education classes. River Trail Village, on-campus student housing, is available now. Napa Valley College is at 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway in Napa. Learn more at napavalley.edu.
