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RCCD Celebrates Shawna BuShell’s Recognition at the Black Educator Excellence Administrator of the Year Awards

02/11/2025

RCCD Celebrates Shawna BuShell’s Recognition at the Black Educator Excellence Administrator of the Year Awards
Riverside Community College District (RCCD) proudly celebrates Shawna BuShell, who was honored as one of the top three nominees and ultimately the honorary awardee for the prestigious 2025 Black Educator Excellence (BEE) Administrator of the Year. This esteemed recognition highlights BuShell’s unwavering dedication to fostering equity, inclusion, and student success within the California Community College system.
 

The Black Educator Excellence Administrator of the Year Award honors Black/African American administrators who have demonstrated transformative leadership and a steadfast commitment to empowering Black students, faculty, and staff. BuShell’s recognition is a testament to her innovative initiatives, advocacy efforts, and policy development that have significantly contributed to creating an inclusive and supportive campus culture at RCCD.

bushell chancellor isaac

With over five years of experience in higher education administration, BuShell has led groundbreaking initiatives aimed at advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her commitment to mentoring Black students, faculty, and staff has strengthened RCCD’s community, ensuring that all members feel valued and supported. Additionally, her efforts to promote black-owned businesses, faith-based leadership, and K-12 School district partnerships which have further reinforced the district’s mission of equity and excellence.

The 2025 Black Educator Excellence Administrator of the Year Award was presented during the African American California Community College Trustees and Administrators’ (AACCCTA) Annual Leadership Awards Ceremony. The event took place on January 27, 2025, at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Sacramento, California, during the Community College League of California (CCLC) Legislative Conference.

bushell hugs chancellor isaac

Reflecting on the honor, BuShell shared, "Receiving this recognition is truly humbling. It is an incredible honor to be acknowledged among such outstanding leaders who are committed to advancing equity and inclusion in higher education. This award reaffirms my dedication to advocating for Black students, faculty, and staff, and I remain committed to fostering a more inclusive and empowering environment for all."

RCCD commends BuShell for her achievements and continued impact on higher education. Her recognition at the BEE Awards reflects her outstanding contributions and leadership in making meaningful change for Black students, faculty, and staff across the state.

Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications