SALINAS, Calif. — July 2, 2026 — Hartnell College has announced the appointment of Cesar Torrico as its new vice president of human resources. He began his role on July 1, 2026.

Torrico brings nearly 30 years of experience in human resources leadership and educational administration, serving diverse school communities throughout California. He currently serves as assistant superintendent of human resources for the Alum Rock Union Elementary School District, where he oversees labor relations, recruitment and retention, employee relations, and organizational development.

He began his career as a middle school history teacher in the Alum Rock School District in San Jose before spending more than 15 years as an elementary and K-8 principal. Torrico later transitioned into senior human resources leadership roles across multiple districts, including serving as director of human resources for the Santa Rita Union Elementary School District in Salinas.

Throughout his career, Torrico has earned a reputation for fostering collaborative labor-management relationships and advancing equitable, transparent personnel practices. He has served as chief negotiator for multiple collective bargaining agreements and brings extensive experience in supporting positive workplace environments that benefit employees and students alike.

Torrico holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in Chicano studies from San José State University.

About Hartnell College 
Located in the heart of the Salinas Valley, Hartnell Community College District serves more than 13,000 students annually across its main campus in Salinas, the Alisal Campus, and education centers in King City, Castroville and Soledad. Hartnell is a Seal of Excelencia-certified institution and has been a Hispanic-Serving Institution since 2000. The college offers associate and bachelor’s degrees and certificate programs that prepare students for transfer to four-year universities or for direct entry into the workforce. Through its commitment to student success, equity and workforce development, Hartnell College plays a vital role in expanding educational opportunity and economic mobility throughout the region. For more information, visit hartnell.edu.