Honoring a Legacy: Crafton Hills College Celebrates Retirees

Publish Date: May 9, 2026

Five years ago, Javier Davila made a pact with his wife, Maria, that they’d both retire in 2026.

Davila had second thoughts about leaving his role as a groundskeeper at Crafton Hills College as the date drew near, but those thoughts were short lived.

“I know a lot of people think, ‘Hey, if I leave, this department is not going to function in the same way,” he shared during a special retirement recognition celebration on May 7. “But to tell you the truth, I don’t feel that way because somebody else younger than me [will take my place] with better ideas and more energy. I’m all for it.

“I love my job…, but maybe now I’ll stay home and watch some YouTube,” he said with a laugh.

Davila and Maria, a student services technician for Crafton, were among the 14 who comprised the college’s 2026 Retirement Class—its largest to date, estimates CHC President Kevin Horan.

Each retiree was the VIP guest at the event, held in the Barabara L. Smith Event Center and came complete with light bites, remarks from Crafton leadership, and a customized carry-on rolling luggage to use on their next adventure.

“This is a special day of recognition because while these 14 individuals are choosing to sign off, we are so grateful for their contributions to our college,” said Horan.

In addition to Javier and Maria Davila, the 2026 Retirement Class included Renee Azenaro, Annie Byrdson, Troylynn Dial, Richard Hughes, Maria Kozanova, Steve Ramirez, Jeffery Schmidt, Juana Sousa, Cyndie St. Jean, Stacy Sysawang, Jim Urbanovich and Keith Wurtz.

Crafton also recognized four faculty members who earned tenure: Andrew Guevara, Jullian Robertson, Ana Mayo and Sandra Ruiz.