One of the oldest community colleges in California, MJC has two main campuses in the city of Modesto and serves more than 18,000 day and evening students each semester.
Located near the city of Sonora in the wooded Sierra Nevada foothills, Columbia College is a primary resource of adult learning for residents throughout the Mother Lode region.
Welcome to the Yosemite Community College District (YCCD). It is a true honor to serve as Interim Chancellor of a district that’s rooted in opportunity, resilience, and a firm belief in the transformative power of education. Every day, Modesto Junior College (MJC) and Columbia College (CC) open doors, change lives, and empower students to Dream, Learn, and Achieve.
As a first-generation college graduate, former refugee, and lifelong advocate for educational inclusion, I’ve witnessed the life-changing impact of access to higher education. My journey has shaped my leadership, and I bring with me an unwavering belief in the potential of every student we serve—regardless of their background, zip code, or circumstance.
YCCD is uniquely positioned to lead both statewide and nationally in workforce innovation, academic excellence, and community partnership across the Central Valley and Easter Sierra Foothills. From career technical education programs that prepare students for high-wage, high-demand jobs, to robust transfer pathways and dual enrollment opportunities that accelerate college completion, our colleges are engines of economic mobility and community vitality.
As we look to the future, I am committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and strategic growth. Our focus will remain on:
Together—with our Board of Trustees, campus leadership, employees, and community partners—we will continue to shape a district where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.
Thank you for your trust, partnership, and commitment to education. The future is bright for YCCD, and I look forward to the journey we will continue to take together.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Lena Tran, Ed.D., MBA
Interim Chancellor
Yosemite Community College District
