Friends and family of the late Joseph Mohamed join American River College staff to celebrate the renaming of a campus veterans center in Mohamed’s honor. From left are Major General Alice Astafan, Joseph Mohamed Jr., American River College President Lisa Cardoza, Shirley Mohamed, Robert Erickson, John Mohamed, Jenna Snyder, David Miramontes-Quiñones, Amanda Carroll and Dr. Metwalli Amer. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A veterans’ resource facility at American River College (ARC) was recently renamed for the late Carmichael construction giant, Joseph (Joe) Mohamed Sr.

 A retired U.S. Army Colonel, Mohamed died in 2023 at age 94. In a career that began as a gardener on the College Oaks Drive college campus, Mohamed developed a fondness for the area and eventually built a home near the school. 

Education was a passion for the descendant of a Palestinian family that immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s. 

“Dad was proud of America and he wanted to take care of its veterans,” son John Mohamed said at a ceremony that marked the facility renaming. 

Gardener-turned builder and real estate developer Joe Mohamed attended the college before transferring to California State University to complete his business degree. His three sons later crossed the street from home to study at American River College. 

“Dad believed in education,” said John Mohamed.  “He wanted to give back to this college.”

As the patriarch's fortunes expanded through business and construction, Joe Mohamed donated land and funds to his alma mater. He sat on the American River College board for 18 years. His widow, Shirley Mohamed, has continued her husband's mission to aid veteran students.

Col. Joseph Mohamed Sr wears the dress uniform of the United States Army, circa 2010. Photo courtesy of Shirley Mohamed.

The school now has more than 700 veterans enrolled. Its resource center provides access to computers and a lounge for socializing. Staff assist students in VA (Veterans Affairs) outreach; trained counselors address post-traumatic stress. The center will receive a $2.5-million state-funded makeover next year.

“The Mohamed family is excited ARC has expanded its role in helping our vets on campus," said John Mohamed. "Our family has a strong tradition of Army service. Dad insisted all his sons served. My brother, Joe Jr., retired as a lieutenant colonel. James served for 35 years and I was a drill sergeant before I went into public life. 

"Dad was a great patriot," the son continued. "I believe he’s looking down today and he’s proud. And we’re proud they’re honoring our family by having dad’s name on such an important building."

Student and non-student veterans can visit American River College Veterans Resource Center.  The facility is located at 4700 College Oak Drive, Sacramento.