When I first moved to California, people often told me I live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Now when people say that, I pause before agreeing. Yes, the coastline is breathtaking. The rolling hills, the ocean views, the green fields and the natural landscape all deserve praise. But that is not what makes the Central Coast truly special.
The real beauty of Monterey Bay, the Salinas Valley and South County is the people.
Over the past four years working at Cal State Monterey Bay, I have come to understand that the strength of this region is not simply in its geography, but in the resilience, dedication and collective spirit of its communities. This is a place where hard work and hope intersect in powerful ways.
From the agricultural fields that comprise one of the most productive farming regions in the country, to the hospitality industry that welcomes visitors from around the world, to our committed healthcare workers, businesses and nonprofits, the region runs on the strength of people who show up, work hard and take pride in what they do.
At CSUMB, we have seen investment in our infrastructure, academic programs and direct scholarship support for students from those in our community who see the value of the university and the work we do to support the region.
As a university, we aim to work with companies that set national and global standards for their industries, that are willing to invest in workforce development and the long-term sustainability of the region. Their partnerships with education, including Cal State Monterey Bay and our community colleges, create meaningful pathways for students to enter, contribute to, and lead in vital industries.
At the same time, the Monterey region is home to remarkable leadership and influence. I am especially grateful to our federal, state, county and city officials who have shown a deep commitment to the future of our students and our region. Their work reflects the power and potential of our community to shape regional priorities, but also broader conversations across California and the nation.
Our educational partners, including Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College, are deeply committed to student success and workforce preparation. Local high schools continue to make important strides in improving graduation rates and expanding opportunities for young people.
As the only four-year comprehensive, regional university to serve the county, we strive to be agile and innovative in our support of both students and industries. This responsiveness is evident in the expansion of academic programs aligned with regional needs.
Our agricultural plant and soil science, mechatronics engineering and agribusiness supply chain management programs all support and address important issues related to agriculture, one of our most vital industries. In health, the university continues to grow its impact through plans for a future master’s in nursing and the creation of a pre-licensure nursing program, helping to address critical workforce needs.
Investments in facilities such as a greenhouse complex, the Edward “Ted” Taylor Science and Engineering Building, and emerging plans for a new health facility reflect a forward-looking commitment to education, research and community well-being. At the same time, spaces and programs that nurture creativity and connection, including the Robert Darwin Black Box Cabaret, remind us that education is also about expression, culture and belonging.
Philanthropy plays an important role in expanding opportunity, accelerating innovation and ensuring that students have the support they need to succeed.
Cal State Monterey Bay was built on a promise. A promise to provide access to higher education. A promise to create pathways for upward mobility. A promise to remain responsive, innovative and deeply connected to the needs of the region.
What I have learned over these four years is that the future of the region is bright, not because of any one person or institution, but because of the collective strength of its people. It is built on collaboration, resilience and a shared belief that we can do more together than we can alone.
So yes, this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Not just because of the land around us, but because of the people and the promise we continue to sustain and nurture together.
Vanya Quiñones is the outgoing president of Cal State Monterey Bay.
