On February 3, 2026, SJVC held a special celebration honoring Susan “Sue” Montgomery as she retires after an extraordinary 38 years of service to our institution and the students whose lives she’s touched.
The event brought together college leaders from across the Central Valley, all gathering to pay tribute to a woman whose dedication, vision, and tireless work have helped shape SJVC into the institution it is today. Mike Perry, President and CEO of San Joaquin Valley College, Inc. (SJVCi), delivered a moving speech highlighting Sue’s countless contributions to our college community.
The celebration featured a special moment: the unveiling of a SkyWest aircraft bearing Sue’s name. The plane now proudly displays the dedication: “Sue Montgomery, In dedication of 38 years of service to SJVC.” This remarkable honor is a fitting tribute to Sue’s instrumental role in building the partnership between SJVC and SkyWest Airlines, a relationship that has opened countless doors for our Aviation Maintenance Technology students.
As we previously shared, Sue was the driving force behind developing SkyWest’s AMT Pathway Program for students who are part of SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program. She was also an integral part in helping to secure the donation of a CRJ200 aircraft for hands-on student training at our SJVC Fresno – Trades Education Center (SJVC Fresno TEC). She even worked with the City of Fresno to declare May 18th “SJVC/SkyWest Airlines Day.” These accomplishments represent just a fraction of her impact.
Throughout her 38 years at SJVC, Sue has served in numerous roles from Career Services Advisor to Corporate Director of Career Services, Director of Research and Development, and most recently, Director of Institutional Partnerships. In each position, she brought the same unwavering commitment to excellence and her unique ability to forge meaningful partnerships that benefit our students and their local communities.
Sue’s work extended far beyond aviation partnerships. As the college’s Articulation Officer, she established crucial transfer and articulation agreements with other colleges and universities. She represented SJVC before local, state, and national legislators, arranged campus visits for elected officials, and coordinated graduation speakers across our campuses. Her efforts have elevated SJVC’s standing in communities throughout the Central Valley and beyond.
As we raise a glass to Sue’s retirement, we do so with profound gratitude. For 38 years, she has been more than an employee. She has been a champion for our students, a bridge-builder with our community partners, and a steady hand guiding major institutional initiatives to success.
Sue once said about her time at SJVC, “I have worked here for over half of my life. I have enjoyed making an impact on SJVC and also the lives of the many people that we have served both as students, graduates, and employers in many different communities.”
Sue, the impact you’ve made is immeasurable. The partnerships you’ve built will continue benefiting students for generations to come. The SkyWest plane bearing your name will serve as a daily reminder of what one person’s dedication and vision can accomplish.
Thank you for 38 incredible years. You have earned this retirement, and we wish you all the happiness in this exciting new chapter of your life.