Introducing our New Deans!
Ana González
Dean, South County Education Centers, and Online Learning
Ana González is a dedicated educational leader committed to advancing access and equity in education for underserved communities. As the Dean of the South County Education Centers, Ana will oversee student services such as recruitment, enrollment, and academic support, ensuring students have the resources and guidance to succeed. Previously, Ana served as the Director of the Soledad Education Center, where she played a key role in establishing the Distance Education Hub at the King City Education Center. She also contributed significantly to expanding the Rising Scholars Program, supporting currently and formerly incarcerated justice-impacted students. Her efforts are evident in opening a dedicated Rising Scholars student center at the main campus. Ana has also led the Adult Education program at Hartnell College, where she developed strategies to help nontraditional students, including English language learners, succeed across five campuses. A first-generation college graduate from a farm-working family in the Salinas Valley, Ana’s educational journey was made possible through the Migrant Program. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Golden Gate University, graduating with high honors, and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Stanford University, with Honors Certification in Latin American Studies. Ana’s success is built on her ability to forge collaborative partnerships with community organizations and agencies to foster inclusive educational opportunities. Beyond roles at Hartnell College, Ana actively participates in community-led committees and boards, including the Ventana Wildlife Society and the Monterey County Parenting Connection.
Dr. Mohammed Yahdi
Dean of STEM
Dr. Mohammed Yahdi has been an integral part of Hartnell College since 2014 and served as Interim Dean of STEM August 2020 to December 2021. He brings a deep passion for equity-minded education and a wealth of experience, particularly in closing achievement gaps for underserved and underrepresented students in STEM fields. With advanced degrees in Mathematics and Physics, including a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Dr. Yahdi has built a career around innovative teaching and student-centered scholarships. His work has earned him numerous National Science Foundation (NSF) grants to improve student outcomes and foster inclusive learning environments. Dr. Yahdi strongly advocates Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, and Servingness (IDEAS). He applies these values to his leadership, ensuring all students, especially those from diverse backgrounds, have the opportunity to succeed. His efforts include equipping educators with research-based pedagogical strategies to reduce achievement gaps and building collaborative partnerships within and outside the institution to create accessible academic pathways. Dr. Yahdi’s leadership and contributions to STEM education have been recognized nationally. He has received prestigious awards, including an NSF grant for advancing STEM education at Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) and institutional honors for Excellence in Advising, Mentoring, and Diversity Initiatives. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, Dr. Yahdi’s journey fuels his commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and supporting the success of underrepresented students. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Yahdi enjoys hiking, traveling, and playing pickleball with his two teenage children.
Juan Carlos González
Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development
Juan Carlos Gonzalez, Dean of Career Technical Education and Workforce Development at Hartnell College, brings over 18 years of leadership experience in higher education. Before joining Hartnell, Juan Carlos served as the Apprenticeship Director at Norco College, where he developed career-focused programs in industries such as manufacturing, electrical, and carpentry. His strong partnerships with unions, including the Southwest Carpenters and Inland Empire Electricians, played a key role in expanding student apprenticeship opportunities. Juan Carlos has also held several important roles, including Administrative Coordinator for Workforce, Community, and Continuing Education at Palomar College. Additionally, he has worked in student activities and ESL support, providing personalized guidance and fostering inclusive academic environments. A recent resident of Salinas, Juan Carlos is eager to integrate into the local community and contribute to the growth of Hartnell College. With a deep passion for workforce education, he is committed to enhancing programs that prepare students for high-demand careers while strengthening ties between Hartnell and regional industries. Juan Carlos is inspired by his family and is particularly excited to support his son, a high school junior and dual-enrollment student, as he begins his educational journey. Together, they are proud to call the Hartnell community their new home.