Meet Our Staff
At the heart of Ventura College's commitment to supporting students is our Basic Needs Center. We focus on helping every student with every need. By embracing a holistic approach, Ventura College sets an example for educational institutions committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The Basic Needs Center is a hub for resources and assistance, providing a safe and welcoming environment for students facing basic need challenges.
Maria Crisosto Calderon | Basic Needs Specialist
Alma Rodriguez | Basic Needs Center Supervisor / Financial Aid Officer
Jada Yarnall | Administrative Assistant
Student Workers
Joselin Martinez
Joselin Martinez made the courageous decision to leave her family in another country to pursue her education. The Basic Needs Director opened doors for her by providing a student worker position at the Basic Needs center, enabling her to support herself financially throughout her education. Currently, Joselin is in her second year at Ventura College and is set to graduate this upcoming May with an associate degree in Sociology. Afterward, she plans to transfer to a four-year university.
Natalia Vega
Natalia Vega is in her second semester at Ventura College, majoring in Kinesiology. Despite it being her second semester, she feels like she has been here for a while because she was a dual-enrolled student while in high school. Natalia's goal is to graduate from VC in 2025 and then transfer to a CSU, majoring in Kinesiology. Currently, Natalia is the Basic Needs Student Worker at East Campus in Santa Paula. She describes that being a student worker at Basic Needs makes her feel honored to serve the community.