President Dr. Larry D. Johnson Jr. today delivered his 2026 State of the College Address on his 201st day leading the College, outlining a bold, community-centered vision for the institution’s future rooted in belonging, collaboration, and opportunity. He also spoke about the Bronco Standard.

“The Bronco Standard is a shared expectation for how we serve students and support one another,” he said in his remarks to faculty, staff, students, elected officials, alumni, and community partners. “Student success is shaped by every interaction – inside and outside the classroom.”

Special attendees included BCC Foundation Board Members Alfredo Angueira, Fleriser Bello, Doris Gonzalez, Anthony Munoz, Janet Peguero, and Michael Williams; alum Joseph Ramos, and friends of BCC Luis Garcia, Julio Reyes, Jr., Brian Aquart and Diallo Shabazz.

Dr. Johnson spoke about The Bronx Renaissance 2031, a multi-year framework designed to strengthen student success, expand workforce and community partnerships, revitalize campus spaces, and reaffirm BCC as the crown jewel of the Bronx.

“Our students get one chance at higher education – one life in which to navigate opportunity and challenge,” President Johnson said. “Every day, through our teaching, advising, policies, and systems, we shape that experience.”

Throughout the address, Dr. Johnson emphasized the power of education to equip students with the tools – and the language – to live with hope, resilience, and purpose. Drawing on reflections from his time listening and learning, he highlighted six core priorities shaped directly by campus voices:

• Empowering people
• Supporting student success from enrollment to employment
• Revitalizing campus spaces and technology
• Rebranding BCC as the crown jewel of the Bronx
• Expanding workforce and community partnerships
• Strengthening operational excellence

“These themes are not abstract,” Dr. Johnson noted. “They are about ensuring that people feel seen, supported, and equipped. This is what I mean when I say we are putting the community back in community college.”

The program also featured reflections from a student, alumni, and staff, as well as Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, underscoring BCC’s role as a driver of economic mobility and community transformation.

Student Reflection – Redefining What’s Possible: My BCC Story
Everton Hunt-Brown, a student in BCC’s Electrical Engineering Technology program, shared how balancing fatherhood, work, and leadership has been supported by campus resources. “The ecosystems of resources like CARES, Career Development, and the Early Childhood Center show what’s possible when an institution doesn’t just admit students, but invests in them,” he said.

Alumni Reflection – Redefining What’s Possible: Entrepreneurial Pathways
Amaurys Grullon, BCC Foundation Board member and Co-Founder of Bronx Native, reflected on his journey from student to entrepreneur. “I came to BCC with big dreams but without a roadmap. What I needed was guidance and belief. Bronx Community College gave me that push to reach my potential,” he said.

Staff & Alumni Reflection – Redefining What’s Possible: Unlocking Possibilities
Grisselle Nadal, Interim Chief Diversity Officer, spoke about growing up across the street from BCC on University Avenue and becoming the first in her family to attend college. A BCC alumna, she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees. “I stand as evidence of what can happen when a college doesn’t just provide access, but cultivates potential,” she said.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson – Redefining What’s Possible
“The BCC story is one of resilience, commitment, and perseverance,” Borough President Gibson said. “This college is laying the groundwork for future leaders, and we as elected officials remain deeply committed to supporting its mission.”

Dr. Johnson challenged faculty and staff with a defining question: What should it feel like to be a student at Bronx Community College – from the first interaction to graduation and beyond?
He said the answer is the Bronco Standard.

In closing, President Johnson cited Victor Hugo’s words, “Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come,” and ended with his signature message: “The very best is still yet to come.”