The Aims Community College Board of Trustees has appointed Cristóbal (Chris) Garcia to serve until the November 2025 election is certified.
Chris Garcia Appointed to Aims Community College Board of Trustees
July 16, 2025
Garcia is filling the role left vacant by former board member John W. Haefeli, who passed away in May. Nine candidates submitted letters of interest for the position, and the board interviewed three finalists. Garcia was appointed during a July 2 special meeting and will be sworn in during the Board’s next official meeting on August 13.
“As a proud Mexican American, lifelong Northern Colorado resident, and first-generation college graduate, I’m excited to serve an institution that centers access and educational opportunity for our region,” Garcia said. “I look forward to bringing my experience, community connections, and a listening ear to help advance Aims’ mission and ensure students, families, and opportunities in Northern Colorado continue to thrive.”
Garcia has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education, local government and community engagement. He currently serves as Community Programs Manager at the Bohemian Foundation. He has also served in leadership positions at Metropolitan State University of Denver and the University of Northern Colorado (UNC). While at UNC, he played a key role in achieving the university’s designation as a federal Hispanic-Serving Institution. Garcia also worked at Aims as a Student Services Specialist earlier in his career.
Garcia has served on several other boards and has been recognized as a leader and changemaker, earning the Denver Business Journal 40 Under 40 Award in 2024 and the BizWest Notable Minority Leaders Award in 2022.
Garcia’s academic journey began in Greeley, where he graduated from Greeley West High School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science – Secondary Education from UNC and a Master of Management Practice from Colorado State University. He also earned a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University.
“Aims is honored to welcome Chris Garcia to our Board of Trustees,” said Board Chair Marilyn Schock. “His lived experience, professional expertise, and commitment to education will enhance the college’s mission and positively impact our students and community.”
The seat Garcia holds will be up for election on November 4, and the winner of that election will serve the remainder of former Trustee Haefeli’s term through November 2027. More information about the Aims Board of Trustees and about the election can be found at aims.edu/about/board.
