SWC News Center

Jerry McCormick: Champion of Mentorship, Media, and Opportunity at SWC

By: SWC Staff - May 16, 2025

Jerry McCormick’s impact on Southwestern College spans more than two decades of mentorship, teaching, and transformative leadership. As a longtime adjunct instructor and founder of the “Pro for a Day” journalism bootcamp, Mr. McCormick has helped hundreds of Southwestern College students launch successful careers in media. Through this intensive program, he has brought working journalists and public relations professionals to campus to mentor students, build professional networks, and provide hands-on training — opportunities that have proven life-changing for many.

A passionate advocate for student success, Mr. McCormick recognized early on the critical need for mentorship and professional connections, especially for underrepresented students. His tireless efforts have opened doors for graduates now working at leading news organizations across the United States and internationally.

Beyond Southwestern, Mr. McCormick has built a distinguished career as a journalist, editor, producer, and communications leader. He is a graduate of Benedict College, an HBCU in South Carolina, and has held pioneering roles in newsrooms across the country, often as the first Black or openly LGBTQ journalist in his position. In San Diego, he earned an Emmy Award as a producer at NBC 7 and served as the founding president of the San Diego Association of Black Journalists.

Today, Mr. McCormick continues his dedication to education and community as the Director of Strategic Communications at Cal State San Marcos. His lifelong commitment to diversity, mentorship, and excellence makes him an inspiring model for the Southwestern College community and beyond.