RC-2000 is a federation of presidents and chancellors of major urban community colleges in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Its mission is self-renewal and change by exchanging views and practices in an open, honest and candid manner. The group addresses global and national community college issues, allowing millions of students and staff from culturally diverse communities to benefit from enhanced learning opportunities.

       Dr. Vega began a two-year term as president of the organization at the group's April meeting. As president, he will convene the twice-annual RC-2000 forums and take a leadership role in promoting and exploring issues that arise from those discussions.

       "I am honored and excited by this opportunity to lead an exploration of the issues facing urban community colleges in the 21st century," said Dr. Vega. "RC-2000 is a unique opportunity to brainstorm with my colleagues from around the nation and to develop creative solutions to the challenges facing our community colleges."

       RC-2000's 26 members are invited from among CEO level community college leaders. Key issues the group will explore include community partnerships, K-12 preparation, teacher education and preparation, urban leadership training, technology in administration and curriculum, diversity, and joint programs with international partners.

       An educator for more than 30 years, Vega has served as chancellor of the Coast District since 1993. From 1985 to 1993, he served as president of Coastline Community College, one of three colleges in the Coast District.

       The Coast Community College District is the fourth largest community college district in the nation in credit enrollment, serving 55,000 students each semester. The district is comprised of Coastline Community College headquartered in Fountain Valley, Golden West College in Huntington Beach, Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, and KOCE-TV, the district's public broadcasting station.

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