California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) will honor two area leaders whose contributions have advanced education, culture, and community impact across Ventura County.
Javier Gomez and Cynthia Herrera will receive honorary doctorates at CSUCI’s 2026 Commencement ceremonies May 23.
“It is a privilege to recognize Mr. Javier Gomez and Dr. Cynthia Herrera, whose lifelong dedication to education, culture, and community has uplifted countless individuals across our region,” said CSUCI Interim President Susan Andrzejewski.
“Their work reflects the heart of CSU Channel Islands, and their stories will inspire our graduates to lead with purpose and compassion,” she said.
Gomez, founder and artistic director of the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center, will receive a Doctor of Fine Arts during the 9 a.m. ceremony.
For more than 50 years, Gomez has been a driving force in arts education, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. Through the center he established in 1973, he has provided free cultural arts programming to generations of students and families, fostering creativity, identity and opportunity.
“A celebrated educator, artist, and cultural advocate, Gomez has dedicated his life to uplifting underserved communities through the arts,” CSUCI said. “His work spans teaching, performance, writing, and civic leadership, and his guiding philosophy ‘La Cultura Cura’ (Culture Cures), has inspired thousands while promoting healing, pride, and resilience.”
“Mi Gente del Sol, the future of our community depends on what we do for our children — how we enlighten them, inspire them, and empower them to realize their full potential,” said Gomez. “¡El poder es saber! Their mañana (tomorrow) is now. Our children will one day assume our roles. ¡Mexicatlāhui! (always moving forward). InLakech (a Mayan moral philosophy meaning ‘love and respect’).”
Herrera, vice chancellor of Institutional Effectiveness for the Ventura County Community College District, will receive a Doctor of Humane Letters during the 3 p.m. ceremony.
“A transformational leader in education, Herrera has spent more than two decades advancing student success, expanding access to higher education, and strengthening pathways for historically underrepresented communities,” according to CSUCI.
“Her leadership has helped secure more than $40 million in grants to support STEM education and student achievement, while her collaborative work has strengthened alignment between regional institutions and CSUCI,” the school said.
A first-generation college student, Herrera is recognized for her commitment to equity, innovation, and community partnership.
She is a founding member of the Ventura County STEM Regional Network, which has united educators, industry, and community leaders to expand opportunity and workforce readiness across the region.
“I am deeply honored by this recognition and accept it with gratitude on behalf of the many students, colleagues, and community partners whose shared commitment continues to demonstrate the transformative power of education,” said Herrera.
“This honor reaffirms my belief that when institutions work together with purpose, we create lasting opportunities that change lives and strengthen our communities for generations to come,” she said.
The university encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, events and activities. Those who expect to need accommodations or services, or have questions about access, can contact the appropriate office below, preferably at least seven business days prior to the event or activity:
CSUCI students: accommodations@csuci.edu CSUCI employees or members of the public: hraccommodations@csuci.edu.
Learn more at www.csuci.edu.