As an experienced, knowledgeable former MPC Trustee I have a record of successfully fighting for many issues that benefit our students and employees

By Kathrina Ognyanovich

My activity as a Trustee has always been aimed toward preservation and improvement of the quality of our educational programs in spite of all obstacles. Our residents must have access to quality education that includes community colleges. I see this goal as the most important task of all. I will strive to preserve and improve "the life-long learning program," thereby maintaining the quality of education in its transfer program and in its vocational education program.

The passage in November of MPC's $145 million bond brings renewed vigor for projects to enhance Monterey Peninsula College's facilities and thus its offerings to our local communities. In four years as a Trustee, I learned the inside needs of the students, the faculty, the staff and the programs. I see, therefore, my involvement with the bond as a much-needed one. I know the Board policy, the programs and the services offered at the campus, and the ongoing Fort Ord negotiation situation.

Yet despite the passage of the bond and the quality of MPC's programs, this is a critical time for the college. The state budget crisis has certainly affected the district. The current $1.9 million deficit is a serious matter that demands the attention, involvement and the know-how action of experienced Board members to tackle the cuts. In today's difficult situation, my return to the Board will be effective and much needed. I see my " re"-election as a Trustee as a smooth and secure transfer for the Board. I have extensive training and hands-on experience in educational budgets, which differ from corporate or non-profit budgets. I have dealt with school budgets ranging from $8 million to $96 million. I was an active participant in budget matters while I served at MPC and have kept abreast of its situation. Two years ago, when I left the MPC Board, there was a surplus. Today, there is a potential deficit of $500,000 plus additional State cuts. More than 25 positions have already been frozen, and perhaps more hiring freezes are to follow. Many programs are cut. This must be stopped!

This serious situation will affect the excellent programs we have at the college, the students' further educational training, the staff and consequently our local communities if the budget crisis is handled by a board that is made up of 60% of new members, which is what happened in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District soon after the election of almost 60% new Board members. As a former Board member, I am running again for the Board to prevent the repetition of MPUSD's experience at MPC. I offer to the college, and the community, my solid expertise as an experienced and effective former MPC Trustee. I offer my training as an MPC Trustee and my knowledge of MPC's inside and outside affairs, which will help to effectively solve the critical issues and situations that MPC is facing today.