Carlos Aguilera Joins SBCCD Board as Trustees Longville, Reyes, and Betters Begin New Terms
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Carlos Aguilera, a former Crafton Hills College student, public policy professional and Inland Empire native, was sworn in Dec. 13 as the newest trustee for the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD), representing Area 5. Aguilera, elected on Nov. 5, fills a seat that had been vacant since June following the retirement of longtime trustee Gloria Macias Harrison. SBCCD oversees Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Valley College, and KVCR Public Media.
Aguilera, a first-generation college graduate, attended Crafton Hills College before earning bachelor’s degrees in sociology and criminal justice from San Diego State University. He later earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California and is currently pursuing a doctorate in political science at Howard University.
“I am deeply honored to serve the community that has profoundly shaped me,” said Trustee Aguilera. “Community college provides opportunities for people from all walks of life. I am committed to creating innovative solutions to obtain resources so our students can thrive. Together, we can ensure SBCCD continues to provide a pathway to prosperity in our region.”
Professionally, Aguilera has built a career in public service and government. During his tenure with the Governor’s Office of Finance, he managed $1 billion in funding for state programs, collaborating closely with lawmakers, state agencies, and advocacy groups to address California’s critical needs. Today, he serves as a policy leader, civic champion, and public policy professor, leveraging his practical experience to guide, educate, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
As a trustee, Aguilera states that his priorities include expanding access to higher education, strengthening workforce development, and ensuring that SBCCD remains a cornerstone of opportunity for the Inland Empire.
At the same board meeting, three returning trustees were also sworn in:
John Longville, representing Area 3, which includes parts of San Bernardino, Rialto, Colton, Loma Linda, and the unincorporated community of Muscoy.
Frank Reyes, first elected in 2016, was re-elected to represent Trustee Area 1, which includes the areas of Bloomington, Colton, and Grand Terrace.
Dr. Cherina Betters, representing Area 7, which covers portions of San Bernardino, Highland, Redlands, and the unincorporated mountain communities of Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Running Springs, and Green Valley Lake.
