Orange Coast College alumnus Chief Dan Stefano has been named a recipient of the 2025 California Community College Distinguished Alumni Award by the Community College League of California. This esteemed statewide honor recognizes former community college students who have achieved outstanding success in their chosen fields while demonstrating exceptional service to their communities.
“This is an incredibly humbling honor on so many levels,” said Chief Dan Stefano. “Orange Coast College played a crucial role in my personal and professional journey, both academically and athletically (football). It served as a vital launching pad for my career in service and my graduate studies at CSULB and USC. My approach has always been guided by a team and family environment, with faith at the core. This recognition is truly about those who have been a valued part of my journey through each chapter along the way. It reflects the shared mission of OCC and all community colleges to open doors, uplift students, and help them discover what’s possible.”
Chief Stefano was jointly nominated by Orange Coast College and Santa Ana College, both of which played pivotal roles in shaping his educational journey. He earned his Associate Degree in General Education from Orange Coast College, which provided the foundation for his continued studies, and later completed his Associate Degree in Fire Technology and graduated from the Fire Academy at Santa Ana College. Now serving as Fire Chief for the City of Costa Mesa, Chief Stefano embodies the values of humility, leadership, and service that define the community college experience. His professional journey reflects the power of community college education to shape transformative leaders whose impact extends far beyond the classroom.
With an impressive career spanning more than three decades, Chief Stefano has served in every rank of the fire service — from reserve firefighter to Fire Chief — and has earned distinction as one of the most respected leaders in public safety in California. He has served as President of the California Fire Chiefs Association, the Orange County Fire Chiefs Association, and the League of California Cities Fire Chiefs Department. He is among only 32 individuals in California history to earn the Certified Fire Chief designation.
“As an alumnus, Dan continues to be a shining example of leadership and service — a true asset to the community whose commitment uplifts others and reflects the very best of what it means to give back with purpose and heart,” says OCC Foundation Board Chair Jeff Hyder.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Chief Stefano's dedication to education and mentorship has been a defining feature of his legacy. He serves on Orange Coast College Foundation Board of Directors, furthering illustrating his dedication to shaping future generations.
“Chief Stefano’s story is a testament to the transformational impact of a community college education,” says Dr. Angelica L. Suarez, President of Orange Coast College.
Chief Stefano will be formally honored at the 2025 Annual Convention of the Community College League of California on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Orange County in Garden Grove. To learn more about the Distinguished Alumni Awards, visit the CCLC website.