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Dr. Fernando Villegas

Dr. Fernando Villegas is running for Citrus College Trustee, Area 5 in Monrovia, California, an open seat. The election was held on November 5, 2024.

I’m a resident of Monrovia along with my two lovely teenage daughters. I currently serve as a Community Services Commissioner. I’m running for Citrus College Board of Trustee, area 5 because as a former high school dropout and first-generation community college student, I believe in the benefits of a college education as a vehicle for economic and social mobility.

My experience is comprised of 20+ years as a college counselor, psychologist, and psychology professor. I have work for Citrus College, Pasadena College, and the Los Angeles Community College District. I’m a former board member of the San Gabriel Valley Psychological Association and the Mental Health & Wellness Association for California Community Colleges. I will advocate to reduce the stigma of mental health services and prioritize the benefits of wellness and well-being.

My qualifications include being a Monrovia resident for 15 years. I have been appointed 3x by Monrovia City Council to serve as Commissioner. I've served as liaison to the Monrovia Unified School District and the Mental Health Consortium organized by Congresswoman Grace Napolitano. If elected, I am the only candidate that currently has a working relationship with the school districts and staff of the cities of Monrovia, Bradbury, and Duarte.

My accomplishments involve writing and speaking on mental health issues that affect marginalized groups. My published dissertation is entitled “Exploring the Relationship Between Parental Education and Motivational Practices of Metropolitan Latino Parents with Elementary School-Aged Children.” I was twice awarded the Mental Health Services Provider Award, by the California Health Professions Education Foundation. As a commissioner, I have worked on the renovation of Lucinda Garcia Park and the new development of Tsuneishi Park.

My priorities are: (1) to assist the current Citrus Board continue the recovery from the pandemic by supporting students, staff, and faculty; (2) propose the idea of a satellite campus in Monrovia to increase access for underrepresented and marginal groups; and (3) collaborate with our vibrant local business community to expand internship and career options.