Dr. Mohammed Yahdi, Ana González and Juan Carlos González Appointed as New Academic Deans at Hartnell College
SALINAS, CA – Hartnell College is proud to announce the appointment of three new deans, each bringing a wealth of experience, dedication, and leadership to the institution. These appointments reflect the college's ongoing commitment to providing innovative and accessible academic programs that empower a diverse student body
Dr. Mohammed Yahdi will serve as the new Dean of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Ana González will serve as Dean of South County Education Centers and Online Learning.
Juan Carlos González will assume the newly established role of Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development.
All new deans will officially begin their roles on Monday, January 6, 2025.
Mohammed Yahdi, Dean of STEM
Dr. Mohammed Yahdi has been an integral member of Hartnell College faculty since 2014 and served as Interim Dean of STEM from August 2020 to December 2021. He is deeply committed to equity-minded education and has extensive experience addressing achievement gaps for underserved and underrepresented students, particularly in STEM fields.
With advanced degrees in Mathematics and Physics, including a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Dr. Yahdi has built a distinguished career centered around innovative teaching and student-focused research. His efforts have earned him numerous National Science Foundation (NSF) grants to improve student outcomes and foster inclusive learning environments.
Ana González, Dean of South County Education Centers and Online Learning
Ana González is a passionate advocate for increasing access to education, especially for underserved communities. As Dean of South County Education Centers and Online Learning, she will oversee various student services, including recruitment, enrollment, and academic support, ensuring students have the necessary resources and guidance to thrive.
Previously, Ana served as Director of the Soledad Education Center, where she was instrumental in establishing the Distance Education Hub at the King City Education Center. She also significantly expanded the Rising Scholars Program, which supports justice-impacted students, including those currently and formerly incarcerated. One of her significant contributions was opening a dedicated Rising Scholars student center at Hartnell College's main campus.
Juan Carlos González, Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development
Juan Carlos González brings over 18 years of leadership experience in higher education to his new role as Dean of Career Technical Education and Workforce Development. Before joining Hartnell, he served as Apprenticeship Director at Norco College, developing career-focused programs in fields such as manufacturing, electrical work, and carpentry.
Juan Carlos's strong partnerships with unions—including the Southwest Carpenters and Inland Empire Electricians—were key to expanding student apprenticeship opportunities. His work has consistently focused on creating pathways for students to enter high-demand careers while addressing workforce needs in key industries.
Read full bios here.
About Hartnell College
Located in the heart of Salinas Valley, Hartnell Community College District is a leading institution serving over 12,000 students annually across our main campus in Salinas, the Alisal Campus, and education centers in King City, Castroville, and Soledad. HCCD is a Seal of Excelencia Certified institution and a recognized Hispanic-serving institution since 2000. We offer associate and bachelor's degrees and certificate programs to prepare students for successful transfer to four-year universities or immediate entry into the workforce. Learn more about our programs and initiatives.