UKIAH, Calif. – Mendocino College graduate and student leader Jessica Rodriguez will serve as the master of ceremonies for the 2014 Mendocino College Gala Fundraiser.

The gala will take place on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Ukiah campus, 1000 Hensley Creek Road.

Rodriguez graduated from Mendocino College in May with a 3.5 grade point average and an associate of science degree in administration of justice.  

Accepted at San Jose State University, she is working toward a degree in forensic science with a concentration in chemistry.

“Jessica leaves for SJSU in August but has graciously agreed to come back and emcee this year’s Gala,” said Katie Fairbairn, executive director of the foundation.

Event organizers decided it was time to really showcase a student leader and what better way than as the event emcee.

“I immediately thought of Jessica as a possible emcee. I have known her for the past two years, and she is one of the most dedicated and hard-working students I have ever known,” said Fairbairn. “Besides, she has a great sense of humor. Jessica will be a great emcee and example of what Mendocino College students can achieve at our school. She is so enthusiastic about this opportunity, that she is already planning her version of the Emmy’s and has indicated that multiple costume changes are planned.”

Born and raised in Ukiah, this 30-something-year-old worked in the automotive industry for many years before being laid off.

“Losing my job was the best thing that ever happened to me because it gave me the opportunity to enroll in college and work towards my goal,” said Rodriquez.

She added, “I am so excited to come back and participate in this year’s Gala because I will never forget where I came from, and I want to give back to the place that gave me every opportunity and tool to be successful.

For more information about the Gala or to participate in the foundation’s programs, call 707-467-1018 or visit http://foundation.mendocino.edu . Tickets can be purchased at http://www.mcfgala.com/ .