The Southwest Riverside County Higher Education Coalition convened on December 4 at Mt. San Jacinto College’s (MSJC) Temecula Valley Campus to advance efforts toward establishing a public four-year university in the region.
The discussion centered around the University Center at MSJC Temecula, a transformative initiative aimed at retaining the region’s brightest talent, fostering economic growth, and addressing the critical need to curb the outflow of intellectual capital.
MSJC serves over 30,000 students annually, yet less than 30 percent of its graduates pursue a four-year degree due to the distance to existing universities. This initiative seeks to bridge that gap by offering expanded four-year degree opportunities locally.
“This is an ambitious journey to shape the future of higher education in our region,” Southwest Higher Education Coalition Chair Dr. Lisa DeForest said.
“With only 21 percent of our population over 25 years old holding a bachelor’s degree, compared to a national average of 54 percent, our greatest export cannot be our talent, skill, and future. By expanding California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) offerings at the University Center, we aim to create a magnet for talent that will attract and retain skilled individuals in Southwest Riverside County.”
The expansion of CSUSM’s programs will help to develop a comprehensive curriculum in fields such as nursing, business, education, and STEM.
A recent program graduate, Jack Norwood, reflected on the importance of staying close to home while pursuing his degree. “Caring for my mother and grandmother meant I couldn’t relocate or afford long commutes. This program allowed me to achieve my goals while staying rooted in my community—it was the start of the best story of my life.”
Thanks to contributions from 3rd District Supervisor Chuck Washington, the City of Temecula, and local service groups, the coalition has raised more than $6.5 million toward the $18 million needed for improvements,
“We invite everyone to join this effort—whether through funding, partnerships, or spreading awareness,” Dr. DeForest said. “Together, we can build a brighter future for Southwest Riverside County.”
The coalition’s next meeting will be held on January 21, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Murrieta Library. For more information on how to get involved, visit MSJC.edu/universitycenter.
