From the folds of a quiet Central Californian district, a bold transformation echoes—West Hills College Lemoore is now simply Lemoore College. The rebranding paints a picture of a community coming into its own, no longer whispering in the shadows of its past but standing tall in its newfound identity.
Amid their rebranding, the college has also been recognized as the region’s best colleges and technical/trade schools by the Fresno Bee’s Best of Central California People’s Choice awards.
"Stay Golden," says Lemoore College President James Preston, echoing a mantra that aptures the essence of the college's evolutionary path. This sentiment is deeply rooted in the identity of their mascot, the Golden Eagle, symbolizing the college and its community's aspirational flight. Preston highlights the journey of Lemoore College, now 20 years in the making, as it has matured and wholeheartedly welcomed necessary changes.
“Staying Golden at Lemoore College is all about having a laser focus on students and their success while striving for a gold standard of innovative and inclusive excellence,” he remarks. “Our goal each day is to create a sense of community and belonging while providing our students and community the skills and support they need to get to the next level, whether that is preparing them for transfer or preparing them for the workforce." This progress reflects the institution's growth and transformation.
In the story of their growth and embrace of a new identity, Lemoore College introduces an empowering new slogan, "Flex Your Future." This isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a call to action that captures the college's commitment to giving every student the tools, support, and opportunities they need to shape their own future. This forward-thinking slogan highlights the college's mission to provide an education that prepares students not just for the world of today but also for the world of tomorrow.
“One of our strategic goals is flexible spaces and services which highlights our innovative nature as we are able to provide courses, services, and support in a way that best meets the needs of our students,” says Preston. “Whether it is providing for basic needs such as our food pantry and zero-textbook cost courses, providing strong academics in various modalities such as face-to-face, hybrid, or online, or providing various types of academic support, mental health support, or career and course support to a recent high school graduate or an adult returning to college, our flexibility means that we can meet students where they are and tailor both the education and support they need to be successful.”
The district that houses Lemoore College is no stranger to growth and transformation. The rebranding of two colleges in the West Hills Community College District, including Lemoore and its sister institution, Coalinga College, was a decision made in collaboration. It was a collective effort, a testament to the power of community support and the need to spotlight their unique identities.
Chancellor Dr. Kristin Clark of the West Hills Community College District explained why it was essential for the district to differentiate the colleges. "Our institutions, while they share a common goal of educational empowerment, each have unique characters that resonate with their respective student bodies and communities," she said.
“The communities were in favor, voters petitioned, students and staff supported, and finally, it was approved by the board of trustees of West Hills Community College District. Keeping the long-standing tradition and recognition of the district in mind, the district’s name will remain the West Hills Community College District and will maintain its well-known slogan, ‘Once you go here, you can go anywhere,’ while at the same time addressing the need for differentiation and creating a fresh new look that aligns with the district’s new era of educating our communities. I am extremely excited to see this much-needed change take place.”
Lemoore College is not just a community college but provides a university-like experience. Its welcoming atmosphere and expansive campus are impressive. Lemoore College, a place deeply rooted in a rich history, is now springing towards a fresh start. The signs of an immense transformation are everywhere, from the strong support given by its community to the personalized help offered by staff. This college isn't restraining itself from the usual boundaries of academics — it's going beyond. You can find courses ranging from industry automation and nursing to culinary arts, computer science, business, and engineering here.
Life at Lemoore College is a whirlwind of activity focusing on community. Student-run clubs, a dynamic student government, and a thriving athletic scene create an environment that nurtures well-rounded individuals.
Being a student at Lemoore College means being part of a supportive family that cheers for your success and guides you through your failures. “The Golden Eagle family at Lemoore College recognizes the power of education to transform and change lives,” says Preston. “We are determined to continue to put the community back in community college as we serve and connect with Kings County and the South Valley community.”
In the heart of the Central Valley, Lemoore College stands proud, poised to expand its reach as it begins a distinguished path of change. Originating from a district celebrated for its openness to transformation, it demonstrates that even at 20, there is always the opportunity to assert your uniqueness, discard the burdens and labels that no longer fit, and move forward under a new identity that represents your individuality. At Lemoore College, that's precisely what they're doing. They're staying golden while flexing into the future.
Read More: In the News