HCSB Honors San Bernardino Valley College with 2026 Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award

Christine Rodriguez • March 18, 2026

HCSB Honors San Bernardino Valley College with 2026 Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


RIVERSIDE, Calif. — March 18, 2026 — The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) has named San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) the recipient of the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award, recognizing the college’s leadership in preparing people and communities for a more sustainable future. SBVC will be honored at the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Summit on April 22, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon at the DoubleTree by Hilton Pomona.


“HCSB’s mission is about people,” said Frank Montes, founding chair of HCSB. “We focus on helping students, small business owners and entrepreneurs prepare for the sustainable jobs and businesses that strengthen our economy and our communities. Our partnership with San Bernardino Valley College brings that mission to life.”


A longtime HCSB partner, San Bernardino Valley College plays a key role in developing a workforce that keeps the Inland Empire moving forward. The college prepares students for careers in clean energy, water and environmental systems, transportation and transit, aviation, logistics, skilled trades, technology and the businesses that support these industries.

For students, this translates into clear, affordable pathways from the classroom to meaningful careers — earning industry-recognized credentials, gaining hands-on experience and entering jobs that support their families while strengthening their communities.


From maintaining transit and transportation systems to building sustainable infrastructure, managing water resources, powering clean energy and supporting these fields through technology and entrepreneurship, SBVC connects education directly to opportunity. Students learn in modern facilities and gain real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships and workforce partnerships that prepare them for jobs that matter.


“San Bernardino Valley College is honored to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Gilbert Contreras, president of San Bernardino Valley College. “Together with HCSB, we are creating real opportunities for students — preparing them for careers in transportation, infrastructure, energy, water and technology while building a stronger, more sustainable region.”


As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, San Bernardino Valley College mirrors the community around it. More than 72% of SBVC students identify as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the vibrant and diverse population of San Bernardino and the Inland Empire.


That connection to place matters. SBVC exists to serve this region, preparing local residents for the industries that power the Inland Empire’s economy and creating pathways for families to build stronger futures right here in their own communities.


About San Bernardino Valley College

San Bernardino Valley College demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through both its academic programs and the way its campus is built and operated. As part of the San Bernardino Community College District’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035, SBVC has invested in forward-looking, sustainable infrastructure, including the Applied Technology Building, a 114,000-square-foot, all-electric, net-zero-ready facility completed in 2025 and tracking LEED Platinum certification. The building features passive cooling through solar thermal chimneys and extensive photovoltaic canopy and rooftop systems that provide nearly 70% of its energy. Looking ahead, the Career Pathways 2 Building, targeted for completion in 2027, is pursuing LEED Gold and Envision Sustainable certifications with a focus on water stewardship and resource conservation. Across the campus, SBVC has prioritized drought-tolerant landscaping and modular wetlands that capture and treat stormwater, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility.


About HCSB

The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing small business communities by fostering collaboration among educators, students, entrepreneurs, government and industry partners. HCSB expands access to training, resources and opportunities that support sustainable economic growth and stronger communities across California.


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Media Contacts


Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB)

Contact: Michael Herrera

Title: HCSB Vice Chair

Office: (951)426-4272

Mobile: (562) 687-0416

Email: Michael.herrera@hcsb-us.org

Website: www.hcsb-us.org

Media Contacts


San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC)

Contact: Paul Bratulin

Title: Campus Director, Marketing, Office: (951)426-4272 Creative Services & Public Affairs

Office: (909) 384-8978

Mobile: (904) 508-9755

Email: pbratulin@valleycollege.edu

Website: www.valleycollege.edu

HCSB Vision: To be the leading resource, advocate, and voice of Hispanic and diverse-owned small businesses, representing their interests in the Inland Empire region and throughout the State of California to ensure the success of our communities.


HCSB Mission: To champion and empower coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities in the Inland Empire region, and throughout the State of California, by providing resources and opportunities to ensure their success.

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