Mathematics instruction and biotechnology workforce programs recognized among the nation’s most innovative community college initiatives
A bellwether signals what’s coming next, and Moorpark College is leading the way. Two of the college’s programs, one helping students succeed in transfer-level math and one building Ventura County’s biotech workforce, have been named finalists for the 2027 Bellwether Awards.
Presented by the Bellwether College Consortium, the Bellwether Awards spotlight community college programs at the forefront of change. This year, Moorpark College has been selected as one of the top 10 finalists in both the categories of Instructional Programs & Services and Workforce Development.
“Innovation at Moorpark College always starts with one question: what do our students need to succeed?” said Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College. “Having two programs recognized nationally tells us we’re asking the right question, and our faculty and staff will keep finding new ways to create opportunities for our students.”
When state law changed how students were placed in math, Moorpark College faculty took the opportunity to rethink how they help students succeed in transfer-level courses. Working with the college’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness, faculty piloted new approaches to student support, measured the results and scaled what worked. Those approaches included redesigned assignments, expanded and embedded tutoring, active and mastery-based learning, faculty communities of practice, and a “Shorter Tests, Longer Time” testing model.
“Every student who walks into a transfer-level math class at Moorpark College deserves a real chance to succeed, and our faculty have spent years making sure they get one,” said Rena Weiss, professor of mathematics at Moorpark College. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re not slowing down. As new changes to STEM math placement take effect next year, we’ll keep building on what we’ve learned so every student has a path forward.”
Moorpark College’s biotechnology programs tackle a different challenge: preparing Ventura County students for the jobs local employers need. Regional employers including Amgen, Takeda and A2 Biotherapeutics helped shape the curriculum and pinpoint the skills students need on the job. Their support goes well beyond the classroom: sponsorships, internships, mentorships, lab equipment, and industry professionals who teach as adjunct faculty. The result is a complete local pathway, from biotechnology certificates and an associate degree to a Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing, the first bachelor’s degree offered in the Ventura County Community College District.
“Moorpark College’s biotechnology programs demonstrate what is possible when education and industry work together toward shared goals,” said Rick MacLennan, chancellor of the Ventura County Community College District. “Through meaningful engagement and collaboration with regional employers, the college has developed educational pathways that respond to workforce needs, expand opportunities for students and support the long-term economic vitality of Ventura County. This recognition reflects the strength of those partnerships and what we can accomplish by working together.”
Moorpark College’s finalist teams will present their programs to a panel of judges and community college leaders at the 33rd Annual Community College Futures Assembly, Feb. 21-23, 2027, in San Antonio. Bellwether Award recipients will be announced at the event.
To learn more about the innovative programs and initiatives happening every day at Moorpark College, visit moorparkcollege.edu.