This year, Mt. SAC ECA welcomed Blanca Avila, who took over Julie Shigo’s position on January 26, 2026.

Avila has recently been adjusting to MECA’s schedule and often works with Amelia Macias, MECA’s other office clerk. 

Avila was born in Denver but grew up in California.

“I was born in Denver, Colorado. My mom and I moved out when I was four years old. I was raised [in California], in the house she grew up in,” Avila said. “I grew up in an environment where people didn’t really share emotions or didn’t really take the time to sit and think about how their actions affected others.”

Avila has been working here for about a month and enjoys helping the students and staff here. So far, she has been very impressed with the students and their ambitions at our school. 

“[MECA] is a very special school,” Avila said. “The students here take their future and their education seriously.” 

Avila not only works hard for the school and students, but she also tries to match their energy. She has many hobbies that not only include going out to nature but also dancing.

This energy she puts into work, and the people around her didn’t just come from growing up where she did, but also because of her daughters, Sofia and Catalina. “I care about my daughters. I care about people in general. I always want to be around, just [spending] time with my daughters, because I feel like there’s not enough time in the day, and I value that time.” Avila said in an interview.

Blanca has not only demonstrated that she cares about her colleagues and students alike, but that she chooses a path that is filled with love and kindness. Blanca has many morals, including helpfulness and kindness. 

“Being a kind person is very important to me, and [so is] being helpful,” said Avila.