Decades of educational leadership
Proven Leadership for Palomar College:
Focused on the Future.
Educator. Professor. Counselor. Community Leader.
Palomar College Trustee
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Dr. Judy Patacsil with her husband
Dr. Judy Patacsil has the experience to keep Palomar College moving forward!
Dr. Judy Patacsil is an educator, counselor, and community leader who has dedicated more than 35 years to expanding educational opportunities and helping students succeed.
She earned her bachelor's degree and first master's degree from San Diego State University, a second master's degree, and a doctorate in Culture and Human Behavior from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Patacsil has served as a professor, academic counselor, licensed psychotherapist, Faculty Equity Coordinator, International Education Coordinator, and higher education leader at San Diego Miramar College. She established the college's Mental Health Counseling program, created San Diego County's first Filipino Studies Certificate, and helped expand Ethnic Studies opportunities for students.
Dr. Judy Patacsil with her husbandAs the first Filipina American elected to the Palomar College Board of Trustees, Dr. Patacsil has served as Board Vice President and Secretary while providing steady, experienced leadership focused on student success, fiscal responsibility, transparent governance, and a workplace that values faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and every member of the Palomar community.
Beyond the classroom and boardroom, Dr. Patacsil has devoted decades to preserving history and strengthening communities. She is the lead author of Filipinos in San Diego, a foundational work documenting the region's Filipino American history, and has authored numerous articles, encyclopedia entries, and scholarly publications highlighting the Filipino American experience.
A respected leader statewide and nationally, Dr. Patacsil is President Emerita of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) after serving two terms as National President. During her presidency, Dr. Patacsil helped establish the FANHS National Museum, championed bipartisan support for the Congressional Gold Medal honoring Filipino World War II Veterans, and continues to advocate for education, cultural preservation, and community engagement.
Grounded in more than three decades of experience in higher education and public service, Dr. Judy Patacsil remains committed to keeping Palomar College focused on students, strengthening workforce and transfer opportunities, and providing the experienced, transparent leadership our community deserves.
palomar college's accomplishments under
Dr. Judy Patacil's Leadership
Growing Enrollment & Student Success
During Judy's term, Palomar achieved enrollment growth for SIX consecutive academic terms, bringing more students back into classrooms and programs across the district. At the same time, the college's course success rate climbed to 76% in 2024–25, exceeding its institutional goal and showing that Palomar isn't just enrolling more students, it's helping more of them succeed.
Expanding Opportunities in Rancho Bernardo
The Rancho Bernardo Education Center earned official state center status in 2025, positioning Palomar to receive at least $2.2 million in additional annual funding once enrollment requirements are met. The center serves the southern portion of the district with STEM, architecture, design, pre allied health, transfer courses, and comprehensive student services.
Launching Palomar’s First Bachelor’s Degree
During Judy’s term, Palomar College developed and launched its first ever bachelor’s degree program, a Bachelor of Science in Building Performance and Environmental Design. Based at the Rancho Bernardo Education Center, the program creates an affordable pathway for students to earn a four year degree and prepare for careers in sustainable design, construction, and building performance.
Making College More Accessible and Affordable
During Judy’s term, Palomar expanded its Promise program to serve up to 3,500 students, helping more local students access tuition and textbook assistance. By reducing financial barriers while supporting enrollment and student success, Palomar is making strategic investments that help students complete their education and strengthen the college for the future.