IVC Foundation Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees

-Editorial 

The Imperial Valley College Foundation has announced its 2026 Hall of Fame inductees, recognizing four alumni for professional achievement and community service. The honorees will be recognized at the annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala on May 2, 2026, at the college’s College Center (Building 600).

The Hall of Fame program honors former students whose careers reflect leadership across a range of fields, including education, public service, and the private sector.

This year’s inductees are Tammy Summers, Karla A. Sigmond, John Cabanilla, and Crispina Calsada.

Summers, a 1997 graduate, began her studies at Imperial Valley College before transferring to the University of California, San Diego, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and cell biology. She later obtained a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She has worked in biotechnology and in vitro diagnostics and is currently employed by Guardant Health. In 2024, she founded Leadership Learners LLC, a firm focused on professional development. Summers has also served as an instructor at Imperial Valley College and remains active in local community organizations.

Sigmond, who attended IVC from 1981 to 1982, pursued a career in K-12 education, working as a teacher and school principal. She currently serves on the Imperial Valley College Board of Trustees and is chair of the Imperial County First 5 Commission. Her work includes supporting youth and families, including as a foster parent resource.

Cabanilla, a 1997 graduate, earned an associate degree in social science at IVC before completing his bachelor’s degree at Oakland City University. A former student-athlete, he was a two-time first-team all-conference basketball player at IVC. He later earned a teaching credential and a master’s degree in educational leadership. Cabanilla has taught middle school social studies in the Imperial Unified School District for more than 25 years and has also served as a coach and mentor.

Calsada, a 1989 graduate, began her academic career at IVC and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from San Diego State University and an MBA from the University of Southern California. She has held executive roles in the biopharmaceutical and technology sectors in the United States and Europe. As chief financial officer of Regulus Therapeutics, she helped guide the company through its acquisition by Novartis. She also supports student mentorship and educational programs and has contributed to philanthropic efforts benefiting Imperial Valley College students.

The foundation said proceeds from the annual gala support scholarships, student services, and other student success initiatives. Nominations for future Hall of Fame classes are accepted year-round.