Citrus College has achieved a new record for the number of students who transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

A report from the college’s Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Effectiveness revealed that during the 2014-2015 academic year, 1,234 Citrus College students transferred to UC and CSU schools, private four-year institutions in California or out-of-state colleges or universities. That number reflects a 67 percent increase compared to students who transferred during the 2002-2003 academic year, the first year the data was recorded.

“The recent report concerning Citrus College’s transfers is wonderful news for the institution,” Superintendent/President Geraldine M. Perri said. “Many students enter the college with transfer as their educational goal, and the college community is dedicated to providing the academic preparation and support services that allow these students to transfer to the colleges of their choice.”

Citrus College’s success in educating students who transfer to four-year colleges and universities is a byproduct of its longstanding commitment to college completion. 

In recent years, the provisions of the Student Transfer Achievement Reform (STAR) Act provided a pathway for California’s community college students to earn Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs), increasing opportunities for them to enter a California State University with junior status.  Today, Citrus College offers associate degrees for transfer in 18 programs of study.

Donna Phillips is one of the many students who has benefitted from the academic programs and student services that allow Citrus College students to transfer. Ms. Phillips, who graduated from the college in 2007, transferred to Pitzer College and is currently completing a master’s degree in English literature from Claremont Graduate University.

“Citrus College provided me with the academic skills I needed to thrive in the challenging realms of higher education,” Phillips said. “The college presents a welcoming atmosphere for students who have made the important decision to empower their lives and futures through education.”

Calremont resident Sue Keith, who is president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, emphasized that she and the entire Citrus community are “immensely proud” of students who have made it to the four-year schools of their choice. 

 “I commend them for their accomplishments, and I thank the faculty and staff who have worked so diligently to ensure student success,” she said.

—Paula Green