Rep. George Whitesides Announces Antelope Valley College President As State of the Union Guest

WASHINGTON D.C. - Today, Rep. George Whitesides (CA-27) announced that he will be joined by Dr. Jennifer Zellet, President of Antelope Valley College, at the State of the Union. Dr. Zellet has been the President of the Antelope Valley College since 2022.

"I am honored to be joined by Dr. Jennifer Zellet at the State of the Union, and to shine a spotlight on the amazing resources our community colleges provide to students across the district," said Rep. Whitesides. "Dr. Zellet's focus on preparing young people for the modern workforce ensures that everyone who wants to pursue higher education and technical training has the ability to do so, even in today's rapidly evolving environment. She has been a tremendous partner during my first year in office, and I look forward to working with her to make sure that every student in our area can succeed."

"It is a privilege to represent California Community Colleges, particularly the dedicated employees at Antelope Valley College who serve students and the community of the Antelope Valley," said Dr. Jennifer Zellet. "Our certificates and degrees make life-changing contributions to our students and their families, and we are committed to this essential service."

Over the past year, the Administration has proposed a series of harmful cuts to public education. Rep. Whitesides has fought back against these dangerous policies, advocating to Education Secretary Linda McMahon to maintain California's annual pre-K through post-secondary public education funding, and championing policies like the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act" and the "Youth Workforce Readiness Act."

Additionally, the Congressman successfully secured funding for the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, which will help enhance their Advanced Technology Center Permanent Facility for Manufacturing Workforce Training. This project will develop an Advanced Technology Center to train students in the emerging fields of advanced computerized machining, robotic welding, integrated personal fabrication, and construction technologies, further equipping students with the tools they need to succeed.

Antelope Valley College services approximately 16,000 students, offering an Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees in 71 fields as well as certificate programs in 59 vocational areas.

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