RCCD Announces Judge Rafael Arreola as 2026 Alumnus of the Year
11/05/2026
Riverside City College alumnus recognized for distinguished judicial career, community leadership and lifelong commitment to public service.
Riverside Community College District (RCCD) announced the late Judge Rafael Arreola, a Riverside City College (RCC) alumnus, as its 2026 Alumnus of the Year during the district's Board of Trustees meeting on November 2. The posthumous recognition honors Arreola's distinguished judicial career, leadership in the legal profession and lifelong commitment to expanding opportunities for underserved communities.
Arreola, who passed away September 16, 2026, at the age of 85, dedicated more than four decades to the judiciary and public service. His journey from a young immigrant who arrived in Riverside without speaking English to a respected California judge reflects the transformative power of education and the opportunities available through California's community colleges.
“His remarkable life exemplifies the transformative power of a community college education and the values we hope to inspire in every RCCD student,” said Jeff Kaatz, executive director of the RCCD Foundation. “What makes his story especially meaningful to me is that he used the opportunities education provided him to create opportunities for others. Judge Arreola’s journey reminds our students that where they begin does not determine how far they can go. His extraordinary achievements, character, and lifelong commitment to service make him an inspiring representative of Riverside City College and a deeply deserving recipient of RCCD’s Alumnus of the Year recognition.”
Born March 18, 1941, in Jalisco, Mexico, Arreola immigrated to the United States with his mother in 1954 at the age of 13. Upon enrolling at Lincoln Elementary School in Riverside, he was placed in the second grade because he spoke no English. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new country and educational system, he quickly excelled academically, eventually earning recognition as Eighth Grade Math Student of the Year at University Middle School.
After graduating from Riverside Polytechnic High School in 1963, Arreola continued his education at Riverside City College, earning an associate degree in 1965. He later attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering in 1969 and a master's degree in 1970. After working as a civil engineer for the City of Riverside, he pursued a legal career, graduating from Stanford Law School in 1974.
Arreola began his legal career with Alameda County Legal Aid before joining San Diego
Legal Aid, where he provided legal representation to individuals and communities facing
barriers to accessing justice. In 1981, he was appointed as a judge in San Diego,
beginning a judicial career that would span 45 years.
Although he officially retired in 2007, Arreola continued serving as an assigned retired judge, presiding over cases in San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. He remained active on the bench until July 2026, demonstrating an enduring dedication to the legal profession and the communities he served.
Beyond his judicial responsibilities, Arreola worked to strengthen representation and leadership within the legal community. He founded the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association and served as the founding president of the California Latino Judges Association in 1996. He also served on the San Diego Foundation Board of Directors and the board of the Colonia Barrios Seniors organization.
Known among his colleagues for his compassion, intellect and remarkable energy, Arreola earned the affectionate nickname "Energizer Bunny of Judges." His dedication to public service extended throughout his career, reflecting a belief in using his education and professional accomplishments to support others.
Arreola passed away at his Riverside home surrounded by family on September 16, 2026, the 45th anniversary of his judicial appointment. He is remembered by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family and judicial colleagues for his generosity, character and commitment to serving others.
The announcement of Arreola as the district's 2026 Alumnus of the Year celebrates not only his professional achievements but also the enduring impact of his Riverside City College education. His legacy serves as a reminder that access to higher education can transform individual lives while creating opportunities to strengthen communities for generations to come.
The RCCD Alumnus of the Year recognition honors graduates whose professional accomplishments, leadership and contributions to their communities reflect the district's commitment to educational opportunity and student success.
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications