My History at Rio Hondo College: Gary Mendez

Looking Back with Joy. After twelve years of service on the Board of Trustees at Rio Hondo College, I’m really beginning to look back at my span of service. For the last year, I’ve been looking back at my accomplishments, but post-election I’m looking back much differently.

I’m elated and filled with joy when looking back at my full span of time and experience at Rio Hondo from my days as a very young community activist, student, student leader and now as the most senior Governing Board Member. There have been so many positive, inspiring, and joyful experiences. Anything to the contrary fades into insignificance.

What matters(Alma Mater), what has always mattered is changing, transforming, the lives of people and families. Aiding in the realization of hopes and dreams is a wonderful mission that any public servant is privileged to perform. So much more to do, so many more people to aide.

I’ve also have had the privilege to teach local young people the art of Karate. Seeing fresh radiant smiling faces of three to fifteen year olds reminds me of my purpose in the community and at Rio Hondo. The future, the future of Rio Hondo stands before me. Throughout my service, these young people have given me the perspective to see ten to twenty years into the future and plan affirmatively. Serve today, prepare for tomorrow. Go Rio!


ALMA MATER MATTERS