Denise Whisenhunt, JD, proudly serves as the 13th president of Fresno City College, the first community college established in California. She brings more than 24 years of administrative leadership experience in the California Community College system.

She previously served as president of Grossmont College, with earlier leadership roles including vice president of student services at San Diego City College, interim vice president at San Diego Mesa College, dean of student affairs and interim dean of student development at San Diego City College, and associate dean of outreach for the San Diego Community College District.

Whisenhunt holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UC San Diego and a Juris Doctorate from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law.

Raised in Fresno, she is deeply committed to creating the conditions that help students excel in college and beyond. Her leadership is grounded in genuine care for empowering students, ensuring they have the tools, support, and opportunities needed to thrive. A fierce advocate for economic mobility, she champions initiatives that remove barriers, expand access, and strengthen pathways to upward economic and social advancement.

Known for her collaborative leadership, Whisenhunt is committed to inclusive, informed planning that advances institutional goals and supports student success. She is committed to achieving shared objectives and upholding a unifying vision centered on equity, access and excellence. A bridge builder, she fosters partnerships both within the college and throughout the broader community to support student achievement.

She has participated in several leadership programs that include a fellow in the UC Davis Wheelhouse, the Center for Community College Leadership and Research, the Aspen Institute College Excellence Presidential Fellowship and the Lakin Institute for Mentored Leadership Fellowship.

Whisenhunt has also served on the boards of the Monarch School for the Unhoused, the UC San Diego Alumni Association, the Barrio Logan College Institute, the Urban League Young Professionals, Catholic Charities, and multiple statewide committees within the California Community College system.