A selfless, committed leader who gives back to his community.
Lt. Cesar Romero inspires all who know him. Those he works with appreciate his humble leadership style and aim to mirror his words and deeds. For his meritorious service to the Oxnard College Police Station, Cesar was named 2022 Ventura County Community College District Administrative Center Classified Employee of the Year.
Cesar joined VCCCD in 2003 as a police officer; five years later, the station promoted him to sergeant. That was when he first began supervising and guiding his fellow officers in their daily responsibilities.
Like many who join law enforcement, Cesar wanted to have a positive influence in his hometown of Oxnard. “I became a police officer to protect and serve my community and the college,” he says. “What interests me most about my work is making a difference in the lives of students, staff and faculty. I have a passion for helping others.”
An alum of both Oxnard College and Ventura College, he received his associate degree in criminal justice. He remains devoted to the police department’s commitment to professional and personal development. Colleagues describe him as “a faithful servant leader” who listens to his team’s suggestions and encourages them to experiment and thrive.
“What I find most rewarding about the work I do is being able to serve the community I grew up in, and the students, staff and faculty of the college campus where I went to school and graduated from,” he says.
Outside of work, Cesar serves others through his volunteer activities that impact many lives.
“I coach soccer to help kids develop their soccer skills and to create a positive environment for them,” he says, adding that boxing and soccer are his favorite sports.
He has also volunteered with Food Share Ventura County since 2020 as a way to give back to the community he grew up in.
Cesar’s generosity also extends to the county’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), where he works at various COVID-19 screening sites.
When informed that his selflessness earned him a Classified Employee of the Year award, Cesar expressed his amazement, coupled by his characteristic humility.
“Receiving this award was a great surprise. It really validated the appreciation from my colleagues for the work I do and the service I provide to the District.”