The Placer Center is an ambitious initiative designed to meet the growing higher education needs of Placer County and its surrounding area. Set to initially accommodate 1,500 students and eventually serve over 12,000 from both Sacramento State and Sierra College, it aims to address the current challenge of thousands of students commuting long distances for education.
By fostering a collaborative model between the two institutions, the Placer Center promises seamless support for students transitioning from community college to four-year degrees, enhancing accessibility and fostering a dynamic academic environment through hands-on learning and community engagement.
Phase one of the Placer Center is projected to be completed by 2028. To meet our goal, there have been several critical milestones achieved over the last year including:
1. July 2023: Dr. Vajra Watson appointed Interim Senior Associate Vice President for the Placer Center
2. September 2023: First Placer Center Mixer
3. December 2023: Six Academic Clusters Identified:
4. Interdisciplinary Forensic Science, Environmental Health
5. Sustainability, & Circular Economies, Public Health
6. Public Safety, and Gerontology
7. Urban Planning, Hospitality, & Community Development
8. Ethnic Studies (P20), Educational Equity, & Global Education
9. Placer Pilot Project
10. January 2024: CSU Board of Trustees Approves Placer Center Master Plan and Environmental Impact Report
11. February 2024: Placer County Board of Supervisors Approves Initial funding for Forensic Lab
12. February 2024: Academic Cluster Workgroups Selected and Began Developing Curriculum
13. May 2024: Academic Cluster Showcase
Now is the time to join Sacramento State and the Placer Center in making this vision a reality. Your contribution will have a lasting impact, shaping the lives of students and the community for generations to come. Whether through public and private partnerships, philanthropy, grants, or naming opportunities, your support is crucial in creating a welcoming campus environment that benefits the entire community.
We invite you to seize this opportunity to transform lives and build a brighter future by donating to the Placer Center today.
Together, we can ensure prosperity for generations to come.
