From Student to Leader: Celebrating Ronda Gordan’s 30-Year Legacy at UEI College

Under the sun-drenched trees of Balboa Park during the Fall 2025 graduation, Ronda Gordan stood ready with a microphone in hand. For many of the 400 graduates waiting to cross the stage, Ronda is the voice of their future. For Ronda herself, it was a moment three decades in the making; she recently celebrated 30 years of service at UEI College in Chula Vista.

A Full-Circle Journey

Ronda’s story with UEI College didn't begin in an office; it began in a classroom. In 1995, she was a "young 20-something-year-old trying to find her way." She enrolled in the Medical Assistant program, graduating that same year.

In 1996, Ronda transitioned from student to staff, becoming the "first lab assistant in the company." Over the next 30 years, she climbed nearly every rung of the professional ladder, from instructor to her current role as Associate Director of Career Services.

"Being at UEI has been amazing," Ronda said. "I love being a part of being able to help to guide and change our students' lives for the better."

The "Chula Vista Family"

When asked what has kept her at the Chula Vista campus for three decades, Ronda doesn’t hesitate: The students and the team. "Honestly, the students—it's nothing like our students," she said. "Obviously, we have challenges, but that's what we're here for. We're here to help and guide them."

She credits the cohesive atmosphere at the Chula Vista campus for creating a workspace that feels like home. "We're a family there... down south here, we're just such a cohesive family. All of the departments, we just interact with each other, and we help each other out. It's just been an incredible journey."

First Base and "The Twins"

While her professional life is dedicated to career services, Ronda’s personal life is just as active. She recently celebrated her second wedding anniversary and is a proud mother to her 27-year-old daughter, Sabrina. Most recently, she added the title of "Gigi" to her nine-month-old granddaughter, Serena.

When she isn't helping students land their dream jobs, you can find Ronda on the softball field. She plays first base in a co-ed league. "That is like my go-to that I love," she said. " At home, she is kept busy by her two cats, twins Ludacris and Lunatic.

The Voice of Graduation

As Ronda celebrates her 30th anniversary, her impact is best seen in the smiles of the graduates at Balboa Park. For many, she is the one who helps them navigate the transition from student to professional.

"It’s so awesome to be able to see the students smile, their families just looking at them and being so proud of them," Ronda shares. "A lot of times this is the first time that a person has walked across the stage... they've actually started a career. It’s just an incredible opportunity to be a part of that."

And as for those 400 names she called? She handled them with her signature flair: "I know how to roll those R’s!"

"Ronda Gordan is the heart and soul of the Chula Vista campus. Having walked in our students' shoes as a graduate herself, she brings a level of empathy and dedication to Career Services that is truly unmatched,” said Serica Martinez-Ervin, Chula Vista Campus President. “For 30 years, she has been a tireless advocate for our students, proving that a career at UEI isn't just about a job—it’s about family and legacy. We are incredibly honored to celebrate this milestone with her."