Oh they have reserves that they want to brag about, but feel the need to send reps on extravagant trips to recruit foreign students supposedly to generate revenue.

Does anyone else have a problem with this?

Actually, I'm encouraged by the fact that De Anza is managing its finances, something sorely needed in more of our government institutions. If there is a silver lining to the Great Recession, its that it exposed many institutions' loose and risky investment choices. Let's hope businesses and governments alike learn from this era.

I too like the fiscal responsibility. That has kept State Center in a better position than most. As for the sending reps to recruit forgien students, nothing wrong with trying to find a new market. I would look at the feasibility of the project, i.e. cost of recruitment vs number of recruits to breakeven.

Steve -

According to the Chancellor's Office of the California Community Colleges, this is the mission statement of the entire community college system:

"The vision of the board and chancellor is to build a better future for California by providing exceptional leadership, advocacy and support on behalf of California's Community Colleges. These efforts will foster access, success and lifelong learning for all students while simultaneously advancing the state's interests in a skilled workforce and an educated citizenry."
Web Link

How does educating foreign students, students who will be taking that education with them when they return to their home countries, following that mission statement?

Many courses are continuing to overfill, not leaving room for California citizens to enroll. Filling seats with foreign students deprives residents from the education they are entitled to.

If Foothill Deanza has so much money that they want to brag, why are they trying to impose a new parcel tax on us?

Recruiting foreign students into CA community colleges is becoming very popular across the state in these tight budget times. A CA resident pays 26 per unit, while a foreign student pays several hundred. In addition, the local school gets to keep all the tuition generated by the foreign student. Tuition paid by residents goes to the state. If the people sent on the trip are able to recruit more than a few new students the trip is more than paid for most likely.