The Santa Ana City Council meeting held on April 15, 2025, commenced with a significant recognition of Dr. Anabel Neary, the president of Santa Ana College, for her outstanding contributions to education in the community. Council member Hernandez presented a certificate of recognition, highlighting Dr. Neary's visionary leadership and commitment to student success since her appointment in January 2022.

During the meeting, Hernandez emphasized the transformative impact Dr. Neary has had on Santa Ana College, noting its status as the fastest-growing college in California. Under her leadership, the college has achieved double-digit enrollment growth, returning to large college status, which unlocked an additional $1 million in annual funding. Dr. Neary has also spearheaded the development of a Comprehensive Educational Plan, outlining the college's goals through 2028, and has introduced three bachelor’s degree programs in occupational studies, paralegal studies, and automotive technology.

Dr. Neary expressed her pride in leading Santa Ana College, which has grown from serving 30,000 to 70,000 students, making it larger than some California State Universities and University of California campuses. She highlighted the college's affordability, with a total cost of about $10,000 for a bachelor's degree, and noted its leadership in online education.

The meeting also featured a discussion on partnerships, with Dr. Neary mentioning collaborations with over 50 organizations, including a recent initiative with AT&T that provided free laptops to underrepresented students. Christina Romero, the executive director of the Santa Ana College Foundation, also spoke, reiterating the foundation's mission to support the college and its students.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued community engagement and support for educational initiatives, underscoring the importance of accessible higher education in Santa Ana. The council members and attendees applauded the achievements of Dr. Neary and the college, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the community.