Merced College will host a community celebration on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. to mark the opening of its new South Merced Center located at Stephen Leonard Park, 640 T Street, Merced, California. The City of Merced selected Merced College earlier this year to lease and operate the former Stephen Leonard Youth Center, which has undergone extensive renovations.
The South Merced Center will provide the community with improved access to education, workforce training, youth and family programming, and student support services. The facility is expected to open fully on September 30, 2026, after the district completes the hiring of a center director.
In preparation for the center, Merced College conducted a community survey where 75 percent of respondents or their households indicated they would likely use the facility. Key interests expressed included job training, college-credit courses, health and wellness classes, and various student support services such as financial aid assistance and career counseling.
Merced College President Chris Vitelli described the partnership with the City of Merced as an “incredible opportunity to bring Merced College directly into the South Merced community.” Trustee Carmen Ramirez, who grew up in South Merced, emphasized the center’s importance for neighborhood families and educational access.
Vice President of Human Resources Kelly Avila noted that the survey results provide a strong foundation for planning programs that meet community priorities. Dean of Instruction Joe Serena highlighted the center’s role in welcoming residents to explore educational and workforce opportunities offered by Merced College.
The South Merced Center is strategically located near neighborhood amenities including a playground, splash pad, and Sheehy Elementary School, aiming to serve as a convenient and inviting resource for community members.
CSB Take
Merced College’s South Merced Center represents a meaningful step toward expanding educational access and workforce development within a community that has expressed clear demand for such services. By collaborating with the City of Merced and engaging residents in planning, the college creates a tailored approach to meet local needs. This initiative could serve as a success model for other institutions aiming to strengthen ties with their surrounding neighborhoods through accessible education and comprehensive support.
Source: Original report
