Impact

William “Willie” Nakamatsu, who passed in September 2017, was the father of Mt. SAC alumna and faculty member, Stacie Nakamatsu. He was a low-income and first-generation college student when he attended Los Angeles City College prior to transferring and earning his bachelor’s degree. Willie was an Army veteran, a retired LAUSD high school art and yearbook teacher, as well as work-experience coordinator. He taught his students and his children the value of education and the importance of being open to others from all walks of life. This award was created in honor of his memory and his commitment to the field of education.