Dr. Helen Castellanos Brewer

Meet Dr. Helen Castellanos Brewer: The New President of College of the Mainland

College of the Mainland (COM) embarks on a new chapter with the appointment of Dr. Helen Castellanos Brewer as its ninth president. Officially stepping into the role on July 1, 2025, Dr. Brewer brings more than two decades of higher education leadership and a personal journey that closely mirrors the experiences of many COM students.

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2025-strategic-plan

A Legacy of Excellence: A Future of Success

Strategic Plan | 2024-2027 The 2024-2027 Strategic Plan is a roadmap designed to elevate COM to new heights. This plan, the result of extensive college-wide collaboration, outlines our commitment to student success, employee well-being and community impact. Goal 1: Student Success Empower our students to clarify their educational paths, ensure their learning and meet their

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dual-credit-advantage-and-promise

COM Dual Credit Advantage & The Opening Doors Promise Scholarship

Earn college credit in high school through Dual Credit & Collegiate High School. Take free courses if you qualify for the FAST Program. Get Ahead in High School. Go Further in College Attend COM tuition-free for up to two years after high school with the Opening Doors Promise Scholarship* *Funding is contingent upon public donations

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Faces of COM’s Success

Leawana Williams Hear from COM Collegiate High School student and peer mentor Leawana Williams as she shares what inspires her journey and how COM has supported her along the way. Abdu Meguader “I chose COM because I wanted a school that would support my transfer to a four-year university. My experience here has been incredible,

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Four student program types.

Expanding Programs At COM

In response to our communities’ growing and expansive learning needs, College of the Mainland is prioritizing innovative learning options to effectively prepare the workforce of the future. For every student looking to advance their education, from pursuing high school equivalency, workforce education, transferring to a four-year university or looking to add to their existing education,

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Group of students outside next to a life flight helicopter.

Healthcare Careers

Start Your Healthcare Career at COM. Ready to make a difference? At College of the Mainland, we offer hands-on training for in-demand healthcare careers that put compassion into action. Whether you want to become a nurse, surgical technologist or medical assistant, COM provides the skills, certifications and support to launch your future in patient care.

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Collage of three buildings

Forward Momentum: COM 2023 Bond Update

We’re building spaces that power success – for students and our community. In May 2023, voters approved a $250M General Obligation Bond to support student success and workforce growth. Today, we’re delivering on that promise with six major construction projects, two building modernizations and infrastructure upgrades – all on time and under budget. The long-range

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COM Alumni News

Where Are They Now? Tanieka FrancisClass of 2024, Natural Science Tanieka Francis began her College of the Mainland (COM) journey at just 16 years old as a Collegiate High School student. Despite initial nerves, she quickly found her place and excelled—earning her associate degree in Natural Science in 2024, just two weeks before graduating high

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Dr. Nichols and the Board of Trustees breaking ground on a new building.

Dr. Nichols’ Transformational Legacy at COM

Dr. Nichols has left an indelible mark on the College of the Mainland (COM), reshaping the institution’s landscape and reaffirming its role as a community pillar. When he first arrived in Jan. 2018, COM faced significant challenges. Decades-old facilities were deteriorating, enrollment had plateaued, and the college seemed stuck, unable to move forward. Under Dr.

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Young lady against a graphic yellow and blue background

Your Future Begins at COM: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to College of the Mainland

College of the Mainland (COM) is your launchpad to a brighter future—whether you’re preparing for university, starting a new career, or earning a promotion. With on-campus and online classes, dual credit for high school students, and even study abroad options, COM offers something for everyone at an affordable price. At COM, you’re more than just

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