In December, College of the Canyons (COC) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Don Takeda Science Center, named in honor of longtime biology instructor Don Takeda, who retired in 2017.

Takeda is the longest-serving full-time faculty member, having taught at COC for 46 years. Several colleagues had the idea to honor him, and with the help of College of the Canyons Faculty Association (COCFA), the initiative became reality.

Located at the Canyon Country campus, the 55,000-square-foot building is primarily devoted to the physical and biological sciences and serves as a focal point for students and visitors. Takeda was recognized in person by the Santa Clarita Community College District with a resolution commending his significant contributions to the biological sciences during his teaching career at COC. He also received recognition from local legislators.

“I am just incredibly honored that this has happened,” said Takeda in a COC statement. “It is a testament to the leadership of this district to honor faculty members. When I get this kind of tribute, it is reflective of all the other faculty members, past to the present, because that is what makes the institution so great. This institution is a gem in the Santa Clarita Valley.”

COCFA members applauded their former member, now a CTA/NEARetired member, on social media: “Congratulations, Don Takeda! Thank you for blazing the trail for fellow faculty and students.”