In honor of LGBTQ+ History Month, Norco College is proud to share the inspiring story of our classified professional Kody Cobb, an admissions officer whose path to self-acceptance highlights the importance of personal growth, community support, and resilience.
Raised in a religious home and homeschooled for most of his childhood, Cobb experienced challenges in reconciling his identity with the expectations of faith. “I went to California Baptist University (CBU) because I thought if I immersed myself in a Christian environment, maybe I wouldn’t be gay,” Cobb recalls. “I wanted to be myself but was afraid—and hoped God would make me straight.”
Though CBU provided moments of connection, financial constraints led Cobb to leave after two years. His journey took a positive turn at Orange Coast College, where he discovered the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). “I was scared at first, but the GSA welcomed me with open arms,” Cobb shares. “They taught me that community could be accepting, inviting, and free of judgment. It was transformative.”
Despite progress, Cobb's journey wasn’t without setbacks. “It took multiple attempts to come out to my family,” he recalls. “My dad surprised me the most. I feared his reaction, but when I told him, he cried, hugged me, and apologized for creating a space where I felt I couldn’t be myself.”
Cobb understands the difficulty of navigating family relationships when parents struggle to accept their child’s identity. Drawing from his own experience of coming out multiple times to family members with mixed responses, Cobb offers heartfelt advice to students in similar situations: “Your happiness matters more than anyone else’s comfort. You only get one life, and it’s important to live it authentically. While it’s hard to create distance from loved ones, especially when they don't fully accept you, setting boundaries is essential for your well-being.” Cobb encourages students to prioritize their personal growth, reminding them that, although the journey may be challenging, living as your true self is worth it in the end.
After relocating briefly to Texas and facing workplace discrimination, Cobb returned to California and found his professional home at Norco College. “Working here has been an amazing experience. I feel part of a community that truly cares about students and each other,” Cobb says.
Cobb’s role now focuses on supporting justice-impacted and apprenticeship students, helping them navigate challenges and find opportunities for success. "I handle registration and transcripts, but what makes it meaningful is when students tell me how grateful they are for my help breaking barriers," Cobb explains. "That makes all the difference."
Kody Cobb and Shaz, two members of NC admissions team
As he reflects on his own path, Cobb offers advice to students struggling with acceptance: “Your happiness matters more than anyone else’s comfort. It’s hard, but you deserve to live as your true self.”
Looking to the future, Cobb expresses admiration for today’s younger generation. “They’re empathetic, powerful, and smart. I can’t wait to see the future they create,” he says with optimism.
Norco College is proud to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month by amplifying stories like Cobb’s—stories that inspire us all to foster inclusive spaces for everyone, no matter where they are in their journey.