DR. JACKIE FISHER SR.

Dr. Jackie Fisher Sr. was named the eighth president of Antelope Valley College in March 2004. He served the college for 14 years, including nine years and eight months as superintendent/president. Before his appointment, Fisher was the vice president of academic affairs at AVC, where he oversaw the work of six academic divisions.

Fisher earned an associate's degree in fire technology from Bakersfield College, where he played football. He then transferred to California State University, Fresno, where he earned his bachelor's degree and played football for the Bulldogs.

Under Fisher's leadership, the college maintained full ACCJC accreditation (Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges) and opened the Performing Arts Theatre. He was instrumental in the passage of Measure R in 2004, a local construction bond measure that supported building construction and renovation, including the purchase of a 60-acre parcel in Palmdale, which became the site of the Palmdale Center. Additionally, the district met state requirements to establish a certified educational center in Palmdale.

Dr. Fisher developed a unique public education delivery structure on the Lancaster campus, including an early college high school called Students on the Academic Rise (SOAR) High School and bachelor's and master's degree programs offered through California State University, Bakersfield–Antelope Valley. Through a partnership with California State University, Long Beach, the college also provides opportunities for students to enroll in local engineering programs.

He implemented numerous initiatives to help students achieve their academic and career goals, including programs in American Sign Language, deaf studies, law enforcement, firefighter training, forensics, Model United Nations, administration of justice, aircraft and fabrication assembly, respiratory care, and radiologic technology.