Chimera Council derives its name from the mythological animal, chimera which is the official mascot of the college. By definition it is a fire-breathing monster with the head of a lion, body of a goat, and tail of a serpent yet it is also defined as an illusion or fabrication of the mind. A very fitting definition for the California College of the Arts!

Chimera Council is a hybrid program program that brings together a group of mature and dedicated undergraduate student leaders.

Student leaders of Chimera Council are known as Chimera Leaders. They serve as mentors at new student orientation, as community leaders responsible for planning meaningful events and activities and as advocates on behalf of the undergraduate student community by participating in various campus-wide committees.

The responsibilities of Chimera Council are:

• Committing to building a diverse community, supporting creativity and encouraging learning.
• Planning and executing student events and initiatives.
• Outreach to the student community as official college leaders.
• Attending monthly Chimera Council meetings.
• Attending Chimera Leadership Training Retreat late August and early January.
• Mentoring and lead incoming students for fall and spring New Student Orientation.

The benefits of being involved with Chimera Council:

• Grow and learn to be a better leader.
• Develop your leadership skills and talent.
• Provide balance to the academic side of your life.
• Create a network of campus and community contacts.
• Boost your career options through hands-on experience.
• Early consideration for various campus-wide leadership opportunities.

Leadership Opportunities

Every undergraduate student at the California College of the Arts is considered an active member of Chimera Council and are encouraged to attend monthly meetings and events.

Senior Fellows — Oversee the big picture of campus-wide initiatives, ensuring that overall goals are met. Required to attend regular meetings with students, faculty, and administrators. To be considered for the position must have at least 1 semester experience as a Chimera Leader.

Chimera Leaders — Design and coordinate community events that support the overall goals of Chimera Council.

Chimera Leader Application.
The online application will go live at the beginning of spring semester.

Getting Involved

Here is a listing of events and programs hosted by the Chimera Leaders:

• Chimeratopia is a resource and community fair.
• Spirit Week is a series of Halloween events.
• Tutti Fruitti Week is a series of wellness events during midterms.
• Keeping Art Alive Dance Marathon benefiting the Children Hospital Oakland
• Design Mascot Competition is an opportunity for students to re-design the college mascot.
• Love Week is are mini-events to encourage students to pay it forward.
• Swap Meet is an open event to exchange books, supplies and art.

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Email chimera@cca.edu to learn more about these events.

Propose a Chimera Community Event

A popular way to get involved on campus is to create an event that addresses the broad range of undergraduate concerns or needs. For ideas you may review the list of past projects. However, we encourage new and unique suggestions, too.

Consider in your proposal:

• Budget — Chimera Council has a set amount of funds to allocate for all events which occur during the academic year. Try pitching a great idea that requires a smaller portion of funding.
• Reach — Chimera Council sponsored community events should appeal to students from all programs.
• Creativity — Bring fresh and engaging ideas.

Community Event Proposal Form

Past Events Sponsored by Chimera Council

• End of the Year BBQ at Golden Gate Park
• Basketball & Ping Pong Tourney
• Bake sale Fundraiser for Haiti Relief
• Ski Trip to Tahoe
• Art School Prom
• Film Screenings