Chula Vista council selects 6 finalists for higher education task force

The Chula Vista City Council last week selected six finalists to interview for three public member positions on the South County Higher Education Task Force, a body created to advance efforts to bring a four-year public university to the region.

The task force was established under Assembly Bill 662, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez, and will be responsible for identifying potential governance structures, infrastructure requirements and funding mechanisms to support development of the university, as well as identifying any statutory or regulatory barriers to the project.

The city received 55 qualified applications from individuals who live, work or have a demonstrated interest in South County, according to city staff. Staff recommended appointing three public members representing perspectives from the business and innovation sector, national and higher education, and students.

After an initial round of nominations, three candidates automatically advanced: Adrian Arancibia, Patricia Bacame and Gala Ledezma. The council then conducted a second round of nominations, adding three more candidates to the list.

Mayor John McCann nominated Tiffany Deal Hecklinski, describing her as “a doctor, very, very accomplished.” District 2 Councilmember Jose Preciado nominated Valita Jones, calling her “an exceptional researcher and educational professional” who “has worked at UCSD, San Marcos, San Diego State.” Preciado also nominated Jesse Lopez, saying ...