Here at San Joaquin Valley College we recently hosted a historic event at our Visalia campus. The occasion? The dedication of our newly christened “Shirley Perry Building” which stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of SJVC's co-founder, Shirley Perry.
Shirley's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit. Her passion for nursing led her to pursue certification as a Medical Assistant, a path that was fraught with challenges. Undeterred by the lack of formal training, Shirley embarked on a self-directed study regimen, becoming one of the first to pass the certification exam without classroom instruction. This achievement not only underscored Shirley's tenacity but also laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in education.
Shirley and her husband, Robert Perry, took matters into their own hands, founding SJVC in 1977. What began with just three students studying Clinical Medical Assisting soon blossomed into a beacon of excellence in career-focused education. With Robert's business acumen complementing Shirley's educational expertise, SJVC expanded its course offerings to include Dental Assisting and Surgical Technology, setting the stage for further growth and innovation.
The dedication of the Shirley Perry Building represents more than just a physical structure; it symbolizes SJVC's commitment to excellence and the enduring impact of Shirley and Robert Perry's vision. Their tireless efforts laid the foundation for SJVC's evolution into an esteemed institution, shaping the lives of countless students and alumni.
At the dedication event, heartfelt remarks were delivered by SJVC's leadership, including President and CEO of Ember Education/SJVCi, Mike Perry, SJVC President Nick Gomez, and SJVC Visalia Campus President, Adriana Ruiz. Their words echoed the sentiment of gratitude felt by all in attendance, underscoring Shirley's profound influence on the SJVC community and beyond.
The event was also a celebration of SJVC's history, and the countless lives touched by Shirley Perry's legacy. From faculty and staff to students, alumni, and members of the local community, the gathering served as a testament to the enduring impact of Shirley’s vision. In his address, SJVC President Nick Gomez encapsulated the significance of the moment with a powerful sentiment:
"As we stand before our newly dedicated 'Shirley Perry Building,' we pay tribute to a remarkable woman whose pioneering spirit positively impacted countless lives,” said Gomez. “Today, SJVC offers more than 20 programs in the medical, business, and industrial trade fields. Since 1977, we have awarded more than 83,000 certificates and degrees, preparing professionally trained graduates for jobs in diverse career fields,” added Gomez. “And let's not forget our dental clinics, which have provided close to $30 million in complimentary services and assisted an estimated 52,000 patients.”
Amidst the festivities, food trucks lined the campus grounds, serving as a backdrop for conversations and connections forged in the spirit of having a shared purpose. It was a fitting tribute to a woman whose passion for education and healthcare continues to inspire generations.
As we look to the future, the Shirley Perry Building stands as a tangible reminder of the values that have guided our institution since its inception. It serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who walk through its doors, carrying forward the legacy of Shirley and Robert Perry for generations to come.
At San Joaquin Valley College we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing career-focused education and shaping the next generation of industry leaders. With the Shirley Perry Building as a cornerstone of our campus in Visalia, we look ahead with optimism and determination, ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
In honoring Shirley's remarkable journey and contributions, SJVC reaffirms its dedication to excellence, innovation, and the transformative power of education. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward to the continued growth and success of SJVC, guided by the enduring legacy of our founders.
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