Two Pasadena institutions name permanent leaders after interim roles – Pasadena Now

In just one weekend, two foundational institutions serving more than 40,000 students in the Pasadena area promoted interim leaders to permanent leaders.

The Pasadena Unified School District Board of Education and the Pasadena Area Community College District Board of Trustees separately announced the appointment of new permanent leaders on Friday and Saturday night, respectively.

Dr. Elizabeth Blanco, who has been serving as Pasadena Unified School District's interim superintendent since July 2023, was unanimously elected by the Board of Education on April 27.

Jose A. Gomez, who has served as Pasadena City College's interim superintendent and president since last June, was selected by the Board of Trustees on Friday.

The Pasadena Unified School District Board's decision to appoint Blanco was the result of an extensive search and a pool of highly qualified candidates. The board has authorized district staff to enter into negotiations to finalize a contract with Blanco, which is expected to be voted on by the board on May 23, 2024.

“With her personal background, experience, and passion for social justice, Blanco will lead Pasadena Unified's students, families, teachers, and staff in the district's commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world. We are well placed to fulfill our mission,” said Board Chair Kimberly Kenn.

Mr. Blanco, a talented executive with more than 30 years of experience in public education, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role.

“I am honored to continue working with the students, staff, and families of this great school district to create a culture of ‘with’ that supports and uplifts students,” she said.

At Pasadena City College, the Board of Trustees announced Gomez's selection at a special meeting Friday. Board Chairman Alton Wang said the selection process benefited from “deep engagement with students, faculty, staff and community members.”

“We are thrilled that Jose Gomez will be stepping into this permanent position at a great time in Pasadena City College's history,” Wang added.

A first-generation college student who lives in Pasadena and grew up in the San Gabriel Valley, Gomez held senior positions at California State University, Los Angeles.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead Pasadena City College as superintendent and president,” Gomez said.

Their appointments come at a time when institutions are charting their futures in a time of change. Blanco and Gomez are expected to complete their contracts in the coming months and continue to lead their respective institutions.