Cerritos : Community College President Steps Down

Cerritos College President Ernest A. Martinez, 51, unexpectedly resigned last week after six years at the school. His resignation is effective July 3.

Martinez declined to comment on his decision to leave the school, but college staff speculated that he had an offer from another college or university.

“These things work like this,” college spokesman Mark Wallace said. “Most community college presidents are waiting for a position at a four-year institution.”

The Cerritos College Board of Trustees appointed Walter C. Magnuson acting president. Magnuson has been the vice president and assistant superintendent of business services since 1973.