For nearly two decades, the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) campus bookstores have thrived under the direction of a dedicated leader. Beginning his journey in 2008 at the San Diego College of Continuing Education Bookstore, Madrid eventually transitioned to San Diego City College in 2019, officially securing his supervisory position earlier this year following an opening.
With an impressive 18 years of experience in retail and four years in logistics, his extensive experience is indispensable. His career trajectory, shaped by both the private sector and the San Diego Community College District, demonstrates a commitment to excellence and adaptability. What started as a retail management career at 21 evolved into a steadfast dedication to the community—a move motivated by the need for comprehensive benefits.
"My Filipino heritage greatly influences my approach," Madrid notes. As the son of one of the first Navy Master Chiefs of Filipino heritage, his father's journey to citizenship through the Navy, “culminating in a senior role in San Diego, served as a profound inspiration,” Madrid added. His determination and leadership have deeply impacted Madrid’s professional ethos. "The legacy my dad has taught me with his skills and attributes totally resonates in me. As well as my mom’s, who aspired to be an editor. Those skills help me in what I do today."
Madrid’s father hails from the Isabela Province in the Cagayan Valley of northeast Luzon, while his mother comes from the Bicol region at the southern tip of Luzon. This blend of cultural backgrounds further enriches his perspective and approach.
Navigating the challenges of a high-paced, intricate environment is part of his daily routine. The pandemic presented significant hurdles, yet San Diego City College’s bookstore remained operational, fulfilling online orders to ensure students had the necessary materials for remote learning. His efforts underscore a commitment to facilitating educational success.
One of his significant initiatives includes collaborating with the San Diego Unified School District and Rady Children’s Hospital - San Diego, contributing to diverse programs that support student success. These efforts reflect the bookstore's role as a pivotal resource within our San Diego Community College District.
Madrid recalls a memorable moment when a CCAP graduate credited the bookstore for providing a place to study and access to essential materials during the pandemic. This story exemplifies the bookstore’s impact on student success, particularly for those facing financial hardships.
Listening to student feedback and implementing suggestions from students and faculty ensures the bookstore meets the needs of our diverse student population. His leadership in addressing course material accessibility for the cosmetology department is a testament to his proactive approach. Prior to Madrid’s arrival, cosmetology students had to "line up as if they were waiting for the latest mobile device model,” he added. Madrid’s experience and leadership allowed for logistics and operational improvements. Any student enrolled will have a consistent supply of books. If not enrolled, the bookstore will facilitate an accessible option.
Celebrating Filipino American History Month holds personal significance for Madrid, as it’s a time to honor his roots and contribute to the campus community. He remains connected with the Filipino American community both on and off campus, promoting cultural initiatives and cultivating his Filipino American traditions while attending community festivals and events.
His advice to students considering a career in retail or bookstore management is simple: hard work, dedication, and passion are key, he added. Having people skills, continuing your education, and being empathetic and adaptable are also crucial for success in this field.
For Madrid, the bookstore is not merely a place of business; it’s about creating a positive impact and supporting a safe space for student success. “I learned it best from my father’s military leadership style,” he concluded.