We Are Here for You
The world as we know it has shifted during the pandemic, and we at Los Angeles Pierce College are finding new ways to accomplish our primary mission – your success in pursuing your academic goals and creating a better future.
Pierce is still the place where you can come and discover who you want to be and what you want to do with your life. You may wish to earn an Associate Degree, transfer to a university, complete a certificate program, or simply sharpen your professional skills—the possibilities are limitless, and we are here to help you explore them.
We encourage you to reach out when you need assistance. We have a complete range of support services, from basic needs to tutoring to mental health, to keep you moving toward your goals.
Our many resources include the College Promise, where first-time, full-time students get two years of college tuition free. Our students take advantage of Financial Aid, such as federal, state and local grants, fee waivers, work-study and more.
I believe in Pierce College, and I believe in you and your ability to reach your goals. Let us help you achieve them and celebrate your success alongside you.
Sincerely,
Aracely Aguiar
President
BIO
Aracely Aguiar is the President of Los Angeles Pierce College, bringing decades of experience in community college leadership and a deep commitment to student success and equity. With more than 34 years of service in the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), Ms. Aguiar is a leader who is focused on building pathways for student achievement and institutional growth.
Ms. Aguiar’s leadership is defined by results-driven initiatives that prioritize access and innovation. As Vice President of Instruction at West Los Angeles College (WLAC), she led efforts to increase enrollment, boost degree completions and expand dual enrollment and noncredit programs. During her tenure WLAC developed new career pathways and strengthened fiscal management, all while ensuring accreditation compliance for programs. Ms. Aguiar spearheaded the development of LACCD’s pioneering Bachelor’s Degree program for WLAC.
Ms. Aguiar’s passion for equity in education is borne from experience as a first-generation college graduate and immigrant, which showed her the transformative power of opportunity. She began her education at Los Angeles Valley College, later completing programs at Los Angeles City College and West Los Angeles College. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from UCLA and a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University. These experiences shaped her commitment to making education accessible and impactful for all students.
A skilled collaborator, Ms. Aguiar played key roles in districtwide financial planning and collective bargaining. She consistently emphasizes shared governance, transparency, and sustainability, making her a trusted voice in navigating complex challenges.
As President of Pierce College, Ms. Aguiar is dedicated to advancing the College’s mission of academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. She is leading the development of the inaugural Bachelor of Science degree in Biomanufacturing at Pierce, strengthening academic opportunities for students in a rapidly advancing world. Under her leadership, Pierce College has become the first institution in California to implement the Caring Campus initiative for both staff and faculty, fostering a culture of compassion and collaboration. Ms. Aguiar celebrates the diversity of Pierce College, a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Asian American and Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AAPIIA), underscoring her commitment to equity and success for all students. Her vision also prioritizes strengthening the college’s ties to the local community, enhancing opportunities for holistic student development and shared growth. Ms. Aguiar’s vision to creating an inclusive and innovative learning environment continues to shape the future of Pierce College and its vibrant community.