Citrus College Dean Sets Example of Achievement for Students and Veterans

The following news release is provided courtesy of Citrus College.

As someone who began her career in higher education as a first-generation college student, Citrus College’s interim executive dean, Dr. Martha McDonald, knows the struggles and hurdles that students may face on their road to college completion.

It is because of her own experiences that McDonald, who has led student affairs at the college since 2007, has dedicated herself to helping students conquer the impossible, building vital student support services and programs on campus and creating a robust veteran’s center at the college.

Now, she has reached a new milestone in her career – being recognized by California State University, Fullerton’s College of Education as a distinguished alumna.

“Citrus College is fortunate to have such a strong role model to help empower and inspire our students,” said Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. “Dr. McDonald exemplifies what students with obstacles in their pathway can accomplish, and I congratulate her on this outstanding and well-deserved honor.”

McDonald said she is honored to be recognized for her service in higher education.

“It is rewarding to be recognized for my service in student affairs, but more importantly, I hope current students can relate to the lessons shared from my story and use it as encouragement to take calculated risks and persevere through challenging moments,” she said.

McDonald attended school in Mexico until third grade, when she moved to the U.S. and struggled with learning the English language and endured other academic difficulties. After graduating from high school and attempting college for the first time, the rigors of collegiate life and family obligations proved difficult for McDonald and she was placed on academic probation. She was later dismissed.

That led her to joining the United States Marine Corps, where she excelled, becoming the first female instructor in the Marine Corps Security Forces School. During this time, she never lost sight of her educational goals. She returned to community college and eventually graduated with a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Chapman University.

Then in 2011, to cap off her academic achievements over obstacles, McDonald was one of 12 educators to comprise the inaugural graduating class of Cal State Fullerton’s doctorate in education program with a concentration in community college leadership, which prepares educators for administrative leadership at two-year higher education institutions statewide.

At Citrus College, McDonald has utilized her expertise to oversee and enhance services such as student government programs, school relations and outreach, campus safety, the student health center and veterans’ programs.

“My personal challenges have allowed me the unique opportunity to gain a clear understanding of the critical role student affairs practitioners play in the development and success of students, including our returning veterans,” she said.

McDonald helped Citrus College become one of only 15 colleges and universities in the nation to receive a Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success grant from the Department of Education in 2009. In addition, the college has also been named a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs magazine for four consecutive years.