[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 76 (Thursday, April 30, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2166-S2167]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           100TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAN BERNARDINO VALLEY COLLEGE

 Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and celebrate 
the 100th anniversary of San Bernardino Valley College, a milestone 
that reflects a century of educational opportunity, service, and 
community impact.
  On June 23, 1926, the first board of trustees convened at a site on 
the east side of Mount Vernon Avenue, between downtown San Bernardino 
and Colton, and cast a forward-looking vision for higher education in a 
rapidly growing region that would later be known as the Inland Empire.
  What began as the San Bernardino Valley Union Junior College District 
has since become a cornerstone institution, educating generations of 
students and strengthening the economic and civic life of San 
Bernardino County.
  The land, however, holds a deeper history. Long before modern 
institutions were established, the area was home to the Serrano people, 
whose descendants include the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Their 
enduring presence and stewardship of the land and San Bernardino Valley 
College are an important part of the history and deserve recognition as 
we reflect on the progress and institutions built here.
  For 100 years, San Bernardino Valley College has served as a gateway 
to opportunity, opening doors for first-generation students, veterans, 
working

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families, and lifelong learners. Through academic transfer programs, 
career and technical education, and workforce development, the college 
has remained responsive to the evolving needs of the community it 
serves. Its innovative partnerships with key institutions like the San 
Bernardino City Unified School District and the San Bernardino 
Municipal Water District have greatly benefited students, employers, 
and the local economy.
  Through times of change and challenge, San Bernardino Valley College 
has upheld its commitment to equity, access, and student success. The 
dedication of its faculty, staff, and administrators has fostered a 
supportive learning environment that empowers students to achieve their 
goals and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The college 
marked a historic milestone on May 23, 2025, by graduating its largest 
class ever. A total of 1,765 students were honored, with more than 
2,500 degrees and certificates conferred, the highest number in the 
college's 100-year history.
  As San Bernardino Valley College marks this centennial milestone, we 
celebrate not only its mission, but its enduring legacy and its promise 
for the future. I ask all Members to join me in celebrating the 
centennial of San Bernardino Valley College and wish them continued 
success.

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