Jim Topoleski - Crafton Hills College

—Outstanding Alumnus of 2022



Topoleski is a graduate of the Crafton Hills College Fire Academy, EMS, and Paramedic programs. He has an extensive fire service career of over 38 years, nearly 36 spent with the Redlands Fire Department. Topoleski has held numerous ranks within Redlands Fire including firefighter/firefighter paramedic, engineer, captain, battalion chief and fire chief. He recently retired from Redlands Fire and is currently serving as division chief with San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, Wildland and Aviation Division.

Topoleski has volunteered with Redlands AYSO and Redlands Youth Baseball, and currently volunteers with the Redlands Bowl and Redlands Noon Rotary.

He continues to support the fire academy cadets at Crafton Hills College. Topoleski is dedicated to the fire service and the community and is truly an example of an Outstanding CHC Alumni.

Elected to the Redlands City Council in November 2014, Barich is currently serving as the City’s Mayor. Barich is an active member in his community, dedicating time to support the youth, businesses, and citizens of Redlands. He serves on several commissions, boards, committees, and community organizations.

He has donated his time to volunteer for Crafton Hills College, sponsoring and attending events and serving as the guest speaker at the 2017 “45th Anniversary” Friends Luncheon.