TRINIDAD —   Trinidad State Junior College has long borrowed expertise from community leaders who help guide strategic decisions in Trinidad, Walsenburg and the San Luis Valley.   The Trinidad State Junior College Advisory Council welcomes three new members, two from Trinidad and one from the San Luis Valley.

Jason Medina of San Luis, and Ray Odum and Cy Michaels of Trinidad have just been appointed to the Advisory Council by the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education.  They join members Jim Blecha and Jennifer Sanchez McDonald of Trinidad and Heather Brooks and Donna Wehe of Alamosa.

“These knowledgeable community members are a great asset,” said Trinidad State Junior College President Dr. Rhonda M. Epper.  “We’re able to stay focused on our service area and its needs when we’re guided by smart and committed local leaders.  I would also like to thank Rich Compton, who has just completed his appointed term.  We will miss his guidance and thoughtful insights.”

Medina is a fourth generation native of the town of San Luis.  He has worked in public education, local government and public housing administration.  As current director for the SLV Small Business Development Center, he has a passion for education, students and workforce development.   “My goal is to promote economic development in our communities, while maintaining their cultural identities.”

Michaels is a tireless community leader in Trinidad.  She’s a business owner, manager, and entrepreneur.  Her business accolades include the Governor’s Colorado Tourism Leadership Group, National La Quinta Brand Council Board, Trinidad Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce board member and past president, and Trinidad Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Award.  She is also a member of the City of Trinidad Tourism Board. 

Odum, retired from the U.S. Army, now works as the Las Animas County Veterans Service Officer assisting and advocating for his fellow veterans.  He graduated from a community college and later received a bachelor’s degree.  Odum has been active in local organizations including the American Legion, Las Animas County Memorial Committee, Las Animas County Fair Board serving a term as President, Hoehne Future Farmers of America Advisory Board and the Las Animas County 4-H Council.