By Jorge Casuso

March 7, 2025 -- The Santa Monica College (SMC) Board last month appointed a local businessman with a long history of civic involvement to fill the seat vacated after Barry Snell was elected to the City Council.

Dr. Luis Barrera Castañón -- a former SMC student president who is "deeply involved in his community" -- was appointed by a majority vote at the Board's meeting February 4. His appointment became effective after a 30-day period, college officials said.

Castañón will hold the seat until November 2026, when an election will be held to fill a four-year term on the seven-member Board, officials said.

Castañón was one of six community members who submitted applications to fill the open seat, and one of four recommended for consideration by the Board’s ad hoc committee.

The other three finalists were Kera Blades, Dr. Karen S. Gunn and Patricia Nakao, City officials said.

Castañón, who the founder of Elevezé Más, has more than 18 years of experience in "education, workforce development and public policy, specializing in career pathway development, cross-systems partnerships, and people-centered policies," college officials said.

He previously served as vice chair of the City's Human Services Commission, treasurer of the Santa Monica Democratic Club and a member of various SMC advisory boards and community-based organizations including House of Haven and Raza Golf Foundation.

“My professional and lived experiences uniquely equip me to address complex challenges, from building inclusive education systems to enhancing workforce opportunities for underserved populations,” Castañón said in a statement.

“A dedicated advocate for student success and community engagement, I remain committed to advancing systemic change and ensuring a brighter future for all.”

Castañón has held leadership roles with Goodwill Southern California, L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce, the National Council of La Raza (now UnidosUS) and Para Los Niños.

He has an associate's degree from Santa Monica College; a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley; a Master of Public Administration and an Educational Doctorate from California State University, Northridge.

Castañón joins a Board that includes Anastasia Foster, Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez and Rob Rader, who ran unopposed for three open seats in November, and Chair Dr. Nancy Greenstein, Vice Chair Dr. Sion Roy and Dr. Tom Peters. The student trustee seat is currently vacant.