VC Athletics Hosts Discussion on Racism, Diversity and Student Athletes

Ventura College Athletic Director Jimmy Walker and the Pirate Athletic Department hosted an alumni panel discussion on Racism, Diversity and the Student Athlete late last week that was posted to the Pirates' YouTube Channel and the VC Sports Network on Sunday. The panel was moderated by VC football mentor and player development assistant Ron Jenkins. He was joined by eight Ventura College alumni as they discussed racism in sport and society as a first step in addressing the current climate of racial tension.

The VC alumni joining Jenkins, a 25-year veteran of the California State Department of Corrections and an alumnus of East Los Angeles College and Fresno State University, included:

Daisy Cardona '13, women's soccer; 2012 NSCAA National Player of the Year, transferred to the University of Oklahoma to play soccer, finished her career at Rogers State University (OK).

Cedric Ceballos '88, men's basketball; curent Vice President for the Dallas Mavericks following a 14-year career in the National Basketball Association.

Paris Dosch '17, volleyball; transferred to Cal Lutheran University, graduated and is currently working toward her teacher certification in elementary education.

James Ennis III, '11, men's basketball, transferred to Long Beach State, drafted into the NBA, currently playing for the Orlando Magic.

Justin Friedman '17, baseball; transferred to the University of San Diego and former minor league pitcher in the Chicago White Sox organization.

Kierra Joyner '17, volleyball; transferred to Langston State University, a traditionally black college in Oklahoma.

Jessie Lemonier '17, football; transferred to Liberty University (VA) and signed with the NFL's Los Angeles Chargers this spring as an undrafted free agent.

Joey Ramirez '94, men's basketball; played at Pepperdine University and UC Riverside before earning bachelor's degree, current VC men's basketball coach.