Riverside City College (RCC) Faculty Equity Spotlight Honors Tim Gutierrez, PhD, Associate Professor of Sociology
The Riverside City College Student Equity Committee is proud to announce Tim Gutierrez, PhD, Associate Professor of Sociology, as a Faculty Equity Spotlight honoree. This recognition celebrates faculty whose work reflects a deep commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), as well as meaningful engagement in teaching, service, and student-centered support.
Gutierrez, who joined RCC in 2016, teaches sociology with specializations in race and ethnicity, immigration, and research methods. He began his academic journey at RCC before earning his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Cal Poly Humboldt, his master’s degree from San Diego State University, and his Ph.D. in sociology from University of California, Davis. Prior to returning to RCC, he taught at California State University, Sacramento and UC Davis.
At RCC, Gutierrez is widely recognized for his consistent presence and support across student programs and initiatives. He serves as faculty advisor for Students Orchestrating Change and actively supports a wide range of student organizations, including Transitioning Minds, SAGA, Students for Justice in Palestine, and Undocu-Allies. He is also engaged as a Puente mentor and contributes to the LGBTQ Alliance for Student Success and Equity (LASSE) and the Undocu-Allies Workgroup. His work extends beyond the traditional classroom, including teaching in-person courses for incarcerated students at YTEC and regularly participating in student-centered spaces such as Umoja HOME Room, La Casa, the Rainbow Engagement Center, and the LHSS Engagement Center.
Gutierrez’s approach to teaching and service is grounded in a clear commitment to supporting students who have historically been underserved in higher education. His work centers students of color, formerly incarcerated and justice-impacted students, LGBTQ students, and undocumented students, creating pathways for access, persistence, and success.
“I’m devoted to working with students who are often pushed to the margins,” said Gutierrez. “I want to help outsiders get in so we can take it over together.”
A colleague who nominated Gutierrez shared the following reflection:
“Dr. Gutierrez leads through presence, care, and consistency. He may not seek the spotlight, but his impact is felt across campus. Whether he is mentoring students, supporting equity-centered programs, or showing up in spaces where students need him most, he embodies what it means to serve with purpose and humility.”
The Student Equity Committee extends its appreciation to Gutierrez for his dedication, advocacy, and unwavering support of RCC students. His work reflects the college’s mission to foster an inclusive, equitable, and transformative learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
About the Faculty Spotlight Award
The Faculty Spotlight is a monthly recognition presented by Riverside City College’s Student Equity Committee. The award highlights both part-time and full-time faculty who demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). Faculty who create inclusive classrooms, champion equity for student groups, and strengthen the campus community are celebrated through this honor.
Anyone may nominate a faculty member for recognition. Nominations may reflect sustained DEIA leadership, innovative practices, measurable outcomes, collaborative engagement, or service that dismantles barriers and promotes student success. To submit a nomination, please complete the [Faculty Spotlight Nomination Form].
Note: Student produced article by Sha-phan Welsh, edited and approved by Jessica Vierra, Public Affairs Officer.
