City College turns a corner with new leadership

After years of turmoil, City College of San Francisco (CCSF) is stabilizing. This summer, CCSF cleared its accreditation warning status, hired a permanent chancellor, and passed a balanced budget, all signs that the college is regaining its footing as a vital institution serving over 42,000 students.

The Facts

City College’s future is looking good for the first time in years. Its accreditation was fully reaffirmed in July 2025, meaning it remains officially recognized as a degree-granting institution eligible for public funding. Without accreditation, students can’t get financial aid and degrees lose their value.

CCSF also hired a permanent chancellor, Dr. Kimberlee S. Messina, after a unanimous board vote. The chancellor is the CEO of the college, responsible for day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. Dr. Messina brings decades of leadership experience from other California community colleges.

And for the first time in years, the college passed a balanced budget. After years of deficits, layoffs, and near-collapse, this signals a serious commitment to financial stability and student success.

The Context

City College is one of San Francisco’s most important public institutions. It offers affordable education, job training, ESL courses, and university transfer programs to tens of thousands of residents—especially working adults, immigrants, and first-generation college students.

But for over a decade, the college has been plagued by financial mismanagement, administrative instability, and governance issues. Enrollment declined, trust eroded, and students were left uncertain.

These recent changes mark a return to credibility and continuity for an institution San Franciscans rely on.

The GrowSF Take

City College is back on track—but it didn’t happen by accident. San Francisco voters elect the Board of Trustees, and last year we helped win reform-minded candidates who are now delivering results. Next year, we have the chance to win a governing majority.

If we want a thriving, stable City College that serves all San Franciscans, we need to keep showing up at the ballot box.