SALINAS VALLEY — Mostafa Ghous has announced that he will be leaving his position as Dean of Academic Affairs and South County Education Services at Hartnell College effective July 7.
In a heartfelt email distributed June 26, Ghous made the announcement with “mixed emotions,” adding that he plans to pursue a new opportunity as vice president at Moorpark College, a public community college in Moorpark, Calif., located in Ventura County in Southern California.
“Reflecting on my time at Hartnell, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride for the accomplishments we have achieved together,” Ghous said. “It has been a true privilege to serve such a vibrant and dedicated community, one that is deeply committed to the success and well-being of its students.”
Ghous joined Hartnell in 2018 working at the King City Education Center, during which he oversaw the college’s expansion efforts in South Monterey County. The first project was the 12,500-square-foot addition to the King City campus, doubling its size, followed by the construction of the brand-new Soledad Education Center — both completed in 2021.
“Over the years, we have worked collaboratively to enhance the quality of education, expand access to learning opportunities, and foster an inclusive environment where every student can thrive,” Ghous said. “Our collective efforts have led to significant advancements in curriculum development, student services, and community partnerships, all of which have made a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the broader community.”
While at Hartnell, Ghous was named the 2021-22 finance chair for the Executive Committee of the National Association of Branch Campus Administrators. The organization supports the mission and goals of higher education professionals who work at a location separate from the main campus.
He has also served as a director on the King City Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture’s Board of Directors since 2021.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the faculty, staff, administration, and especially our students. Your passion, dedication, and resilience have been a constant source of inspiration to me,” Ghous said. “The support and camaraderie we have shared have not only enriched my professional journey but also my personal growth. It has been an honor to be part of such a remarkable institution, and I am profoundly grateful for the trust and support you have extended to me.”
Before joining Hartnell, Ghous worked as the East County Campus Director at Everett Community College in Everett, Wash. He also served as the director of campus life and student activities at Berkeley City College.
“As I prepare to embark on this new chapter at Moorpark College, I carry with me the lessons, experiences, and memories that have shaped my time here at Hartnell,” he concluded in the email. “I am confident that the strong foundation we have built together will continue to propel Hartnell College towards even greater success.”
