Riverside County Honors RCCD’s Elena Baca-Santa Cruz as Community Champion and Woman of Impact

Elena Baca-Santa Cruz, a dedicated professional within the Riverside Community College District (RCCD) and a respected community leader, has been selected as an honoree for the District 5 Community Champion and Women of Impact recognition by Riverside County. The award ceremony will take place on May 21, 2026, at the Crestmore Manor, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service within their communities.

Baca-Santa Cruz has served RCCD for more than 15 years, working across all three colleges and dedicating her career to supporting students, faculty, and the broader campus community. Her commitment to student success is matched by her advocacy for classified professionals. She currently serves as Vice President of CSEA Chapter 535 and has been a member of its Executive Board since 2013, providing over a decade of leadership and championing the vital role classified staff play in higher education. She also represents community colleges at the state level through CSEA’s Legislative Committee, helping shape policies that impact classified professionals across California.

“Being recognized as a Community Champion and Woman of Impact is incredibly meaningful,” said Baca-Santa Cruz. “This honor reflects not only my own journey, but the values of service, resilience, and community that were instilled in me from a young age and that I strive to carry forward every day.”

In addition to her work in higher education, Baca-Santa Cruz was elected to the Moreno Valley City Council in 2022, continuing a legacy of public service inspired by her mother, former Councilmember Victoria Baca. Through her leadership, she remains committed to strengthening her community through advocacy, collaboration, and meaningful engagement.

“Elena exemplifies what it means to serve with purpose,” said Interim President, Eric Bishop, Ed.D. “Her dedication to students, her advocacy for classified professionals, and her leadership in the community reflect the very best of RCCD’s mission and values.”

The Community Champion and Women of Impact recognition honors individuals whose service, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting difference in the lives of others. Baca-Santa Cruz’s contributions continue to uplift both the RCCD community and the broader Riverside County region.