News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NR-11-09-26-VIA
November 9, 2026

COC Receives VIA Business of the Year Award

The Valley Industry Association (VIA) recognized College of the Canyons with the Business of the Year Award at the annual VIA Bash 2026: Boots & Bowties – The Cowboy Ball, on Friday, Nov. 6.

The VIA Business of the Year Award is given to organizations that demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to strengthening the Santa Clarita Valley business community. 

“This award points to the power of partnerships and what business, education and government can accomplish by combining their respective strengths and working together for the benefit of the community,” said College of the Canyons Superintendent/President Dr. Jasmine Ruys. “We recognize the vital role that higher education plays in economic development, so we have been proud to partner with VIA for decades to support local business and industry.”

The college hosts VIA’s signature Connecting to Success program, which brings high school juniors to COC’s Valencia campus for a day of practical career development sessions focused on developing a professional reputation, improving communication skills, and boosting financial literacy. The program has served more than 40,000 students since it was launched.

Jeff Gregor says that serving on VIA’s Board of Directors is critical to his role as the college’s vice president of Workforce and Economic Advancement. 

“VIA opens doors and helps us connect with companies to share how they can benefit from the services and training that we deliver,” said Gregor.

College of the Canyons provides a wide array of services to local companies, including personalized consulting through the Small Business Development Center, and low-cost, customized training offered by the Employee Training Institute. 

“We are deeply honored to be chosen by VIA as the 2026 Business of the Year honoree,” College of the Canyons Board of Trustees President Sharlene Johnson said. “The strength of our community is found in the many people and organizations that give selflessly of their time to make the Santa Clarita Valley such a special place to live and work. With so many who deserve to be recognized, all of us at COC are deeply humbled to receive this award.”

Johnson also said the award is particularly meaningful given the pending retirement of longtime VIA CEO Kathy Norris. 

“When people think of VIA, they think of Kathy,” added Johnson. “She has been the face of VIA for 30-plus years, and we so appreciate her dedication to championing our local business community and building long-lasting partnerships. The enduring connection between COC and VIA is a testament to her leadership and ability to bring people together.”