10/16/2026
The Yosemite Community College District (YCCD) Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Lena Tran as Chancellor.
"Dr. Tran has demonstrated exceptional leadership as Interim Chancellor, as President of Columbia College and throughout her career in higher education," said Dr. Milton Richards, President of the YCCD Board of Trustees. "Through our collaborative search process, she emerged as the leader to move YCCD forward with purpose and vision. Her ability to bring people together, expand educational opportunity and build meaningful workforce and community partnerships will strengthen our colleges and the communities we serve.” During her tenure as YCCD Interim Chancellor, Dr. Tran advanced initiatives that expanded student access and achievement, strengthened regional workforce pathways and extended educational opportunities to rural and underserved communities.
As Chancellor, Dr. Tran will lead Modesto Junior College in Modesto and Columbia College in Sonora. Her priorities include expanding educational access throughout the District's vast service area; strengthening workforce and industry partnerships; preparing students for emerging industries and the evolving needs of a modern workforce; and securing state and federal resources to enhance facilities, infrastructure, academic programs and student support services. Learn more about the future of YCCD at www.yosemite.edu