Long Beach, CA, Dec. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Long Beach City College (LBCC) Board of Trustees voted unanimously at the December Board of Trustees meeting to name the college\u2019s new state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center in honor of global music icon and Long Beach native Jenni Rivera. The Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center will stand as a permanent tribute to Rivera\u2019s legacy as a trailblazing artist, beloved community figure, and powerful advocate for education, women\u2019s empowerment, and the Latinx community. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis naming recognizes not just an extraordinary performer, but a daughter of Long Beach whose voice and spirit transcended borders,\u201d said Uduak-Joe Ntuk, President of the Long Beach Community College District Board of Trustees. \u201cJenni Rivera inspired millions through her music, resilience, and advocacy. We are proud that future generations of artists will learn and create in a space that bears her name.\u201d <\/p>\n
LBCC Superintendent-President Dr. Mike Mu\u00f1oz emphasized the significance of the honor for students and the broader community. \u201cThe Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center will reflect the cultural richness and diversity of our city,\u201d said Mu\u00f1oz. \u201cJenni\u2019s story is one of perseverance, authenticity, and pride in her roots, and mirrors the experiences of so many LBCC students. We hope her name on this beautiful new facility reminds every student that their voice matters and their dreams are within reach.\u201d <\/p>\n
The new Performing Arts Center is one of the signature projects supported by the landmark Measure LB and Measure E bonds approved by voters. The facility will include a 300-seat mainstage theater, a 50-seat black box venue, recording and digital production studios, rehearsal spaces, and flexible learning environments designed to support music, dance, theater, and multimedia arts programs. <\/p>\n
Born and raised in Long Beach, Jenni Rivera rose to international acclaim as one of the most influential voices in regional Mexican music. Her philanthropic work, entrepreneurial achievements, and commitment to uplifting women and families continue to inspire fans around the world. <\/p>\n
Representatives of the Rivera family shared their appreciation for the recognition and the connection to Jenni\u2019s hometown. \u201cOur family is deeply honored that Long Beach City College has chosen to memorialize Jenni in this extraordinary way,\u201d said Jacqi Rivera, CEO of Jenni Rivera Enterprises. \u201cLong Beach shaped who Jenni was\u2014as an artist, a mother, and a woman committed to her community. Knowing that young performers will grow, train, and find their creative voice in a center that carries her name is profoundly meaningful to us.\u201d <\/p>\n
The Board\u2019s action supports LBCC\u2019s ongoing investment in the arts as essential to student expression, workforce development, and the cultural vitality of Long Beach. Construction on the new facility is nearly complete at the Liberal Arts Campus, and is expected to open in Spring 2026. <\/p>\n