A message from Dr. Robert Pimentel, West Hills Community College Chancellor:
Last night, our office received the difficult news that Ms. Edna L. Ivans, a beloved figure in the West Hills Community College family, has been placed in hospice care. For those who may not be familiar with her remarkable legacy, Ms. Ivans was much more than a former trustee—she was a cornerstone of our district. From 1967 to 2015, she served as a Trustee for Area 3, representing the communities of Avenal, Stratford, and Kettleman City. She dedicated her unwavering service to Coalinga College and the West Hills Community College District. Her tenure is the longest in our district's history and in the entire state of California.
Ms. Ivans' daughter, India, has shared that Edna is in good spirits despite her rapid decline in health. While we are unsure how much longer we will have her with us, I want to take a moment to reflect on and honor her profound impact on West Hills Community College.
Ms. Ivans was a fierce advocate for student success and a passionate supporter of higher education. Her unwavering commitment to social mobility and belief in the power of education inspired staff and students alike to strive for excellence. Throughout her nearly five decades of service, she was a constant presence at campus events, always deeply engaged in the college's life.
In recognition of her unparalleled dedication, the women's residence halls on the Coalinga College campus have been named Edna L. Ivans Hall, a permanent tribute to her legacy. This honor ensures that her impact on the lives of countless students will be remembered for generations to come.
Additionally, her generosity lives on through the Edna L. and Nick Ivans Endowed Scholarship, which supports full-time Coalinga College students pursuing degrees in Business or Science, furthering her commitment to education and opportunity.
Ms. Ivans' 48-year tenure left an indelible mark on West Hills Community College. In recognition of her incredible service, she was named a Trustee Emeritus on February 18, 2020—the first to receive this distinction in the history of our district. Her tireless efforts have helped shape this institution, and her influence on the educational journeys of thousands of students will be felt for years to come. We are profoundly grateful for her service and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.