“I am SDCCE”: A Veteran’s Story of Service and Impact

December 12, 2025

Andre Harris, College Operations Supervisor at San Diego College of Continuing Education's West City Campus, has dedicated his career to serving students after overcoming personal hardships including homelessness and marginalization. His journey began in Flint, Michigan, where he took on family responsibilities at age nine, then joined the U.S. Navy after high school, serving during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. After leaving military service, he spent 24 years at Southwestern College advancing from administrative secretary to supervisor while earning three degrees.

Who is affected

Veteran students at San Diego College of Continuing Education
Students, faculty, and staff at SDCCE's West City Campus
Andre Harris and his family (wife Kumiko, mother, and younger brother)
Veterans transitioning from military to civilian life

What action is being taken

The Veterans Resource Center at SDCCE's Educational Cultural Complex is providing counseling, academic advising, workshops, referrals to veteran-focused services, and guidance on VA Education benefits
SDCCE is offering more than 70 free career training programs to veterans, including VA Education Benefits for programs in automotive technology and welding
Harris is sharing his personal story with veteran students to establish connection and understanding

Why it matters

This matters because veterans face unique challenges when transitioning from military to civilian life, and institutions that understand and honor their service can provide critical support during this transition. The programs help veterans translate their military skills into meaningful civilian careers through education and training, with staff who share similar backgrounds and can relate to their experiences. Harris's personal journey from homelessness and marginalization to leadership demonstrates how education can transform lives and enable individuals to help others succeed.

What's next

Harris envisions establishing Veterans Resource Centers on all seven SDCCE campuses, staffed by veterans who can relate to students' experiences.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint