MOORPARK : Student Is Named to College Board Seat

Gov. Pete Wilson has appointed a 21-year-old Moorpark College sophomore to the powerful board of governors of the California Community College system, officials announced Tuesday.

Michael Madrid is the first Ventura County community college student to be appointed to the 16-member board, which sets policy and guidelines for the state’s 107 community colleges, said Ann Reed, a spokeswoman in the California Community College chancellor’s office.

Madrid, who will serve a one-year term on the board, will not be paid a salary but will enjoy full voting privileges, Reed said.

Madrid will be the third current board member from Ventura County. The other two are Ventura College business teacher Yvonne Bodle and Oxnard resident Phillip G. Bardos.

“This is an honor,” Madrid said after learning of his appointment. “I hope to live up to Gov. Wilson’s confidence. I look forward to the opportunity.”

Moorpark College officials were equally enthusiastic.

“We’re delighted,” said Gerry Olsen, spokesman for the college. “This is certainly good news.”

The college board meets every other month in Sacramento to vote on new policies and programs, Reed said. When attending board meetings, Madrid will be reimbursed for travel expenses and will receive a $100-a-day stipend.

A graduate of Moorpark High School, Madrid is a political science major at the community college. He is also treasurer of the Alpha Gamma Sigma honor society on campus and has been active in the national campaign against illiteracy.

Madrid said he was encouraged last summer to apply for the board position while serving on the campaign staff of Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley). Madrid said Gallegly and his campaign manager, Chuck Jelloian, wrote letters on his behalf to the governor.

“I guess it worked,” Madrid said.