MiraCosta College is proud to announce the swearing-in of its newly elected and returning Board of Trustees members following the 2024 election. Trustees Frank Merchant, Heather Conklin, and Jacqueline Simon, who ran unopposed, will continue their dedicated service to the college and its communities. Additionally, Ann Crosbie joined the board, bringing extensive experience in education advocacy and governance.

The swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, December 19, highlights MiraCosta College’s ongoing commitment to leadership excellence and community-focused governance.

“Today, we welcomed both new and returning members to our Board of Trustees. Each trustee brings a unique perspective and a shared passion for advancing educational opportunities and student success. Together, we will continue to advance MiraCosta’s mission of transforming lives, empowering our students, and enriching our community through education,” explained Dr. Sunita “Sunny” Cooke, superintendent/president of MiraCosta College.

Ann Crosbie brings decades of experience in education advocacy and public service to the MiraCosta College Board. As a former trustee at Ohlone Community College in Northern California, she was key in passing a facilities bond to upgrade campus infrastructure and introduce sustainable energy solutions. Crosbie also served eight years as a trustee with the Fremont Unified School District, where she was instrumental in implementing a $600 million bond to modernize schools.

Now a resident of Carlsbad, Crosbie is committed to applying her lifelong dedication to equity and access to education to benefit MiraCosta College students.

Jacqueline Simon has served on the MiraCosta College Board since 2004, advocating for academic excellence and expanded opportunities for all students. A Carlsbad resident and experienced community college educator, Simon champions curriculum alignment with transfer requirements, ensuring students’ success at four-year institutions. Her teaching, communication, and technical writing background provides valuable insight into community colleges' challenges and opportunities.

Heather Conklin joined the Board earlier this year and continues her commitment to student success and equity at MiraCosta College. As the Deputy Director for the County of San Diego, Conklin brings expertise in policy, outreach, and data-driven decision-making. She is also pursuing a Ph.D. in social psychology, ensuring innovative and forward-thinking approaches to governance.

Frank Merchant has been a passionate advocate for MiraCosta College, serving on the Board with a vision of affordability and access for all students. A successful entrepreneur and former MiraCosta College Foundation Board member, Merchant leverages his leadership experience to support the college’s mission of providing transformative educational opportunities.

During its first meeting of the new term, the Board retained current leadership for 2025. Trustee Rick Cassar was selected as Board President and Trustee Raye Clendening was elected Vice President. Both bring extensive experience and unwavering commitment to MiraCosta College’s mission of fostering student success and community engagement.

MiraCosta College looks forward to a productive year under the guidance of its dedicated Board of Trustees. The new and returning leadership reflects the college’s commitment to ensuring access to quality education, supporting innovative programs, and fostering student success across North County San Diego.