Tribute to Rick
Arellano
Arellano, Rick:
Computer Applications and Office Technology and Real Estate Faculty Member
Rick Arellano was hired as an adjunct faculty member
beginning in August 1999 and as a full-time faculty member beginning in January
2001. He retired in June 2014, after 15 years of dedicated service.
Upon retirement, he was granted Emeritus status.
Rick embodied the “Learning Community” concept, and inspired
and mentored all students to fulfill their highest potential by building
upon current and potential competencies to maximize strengths and creativity.
He created an intellectual and collaborative atmosphere that emphasized
the value of everyone’s contributions and fostered the stimulation and
interchange of ideas.
Rick consistently spoke with strength and conviction on
behalf of his subject matter while maintaining the interests of the college
throughout his years at Ohlone. As technology became more prevalent
within the various curriculum areas of the college, Rick led the effort to link
the Computer Applications and Office Technology courses with these areas (for
example: Computer Applications and Biotechnology). Rick
demonstrated distinguished leadership that pulled the entire Computer
Applications and Office Technology Department (CAOT) together even in
challenging budgetary times, and promoted new courses for student learning and
success.
Rick was a leader in the development of online courses in
his area. He used his extensive network in the business community to help
with both the CAOT, Multimedia and Real Estate programs. He was also very
active in outreach to underserved populations for involvement in the Science,
Technology, Engineering and Math subjects and programs at Ohlone.
Rick was very active in community service. He used his
knowledge of the community and his contacts to assist the College with funding
projects and / or seeking funding resources. He was a major contributor
to the work to pass the Measure A bond measure to build the new campus in
Newark; and the Measure G bond measure to build the new Academic Core on the
Fremont Campus.
Rick teaches in an adjunct capacity since his retirement and
he continues to be highly respected and loved by the Ohlone community for his
forward thinking, enthusiasm, integrity, and devotion to excellence in teaching
and learning for all.
