Advancing Equity and Empowerment
Alé Vazquez, Program Manager, Equity; Sahian Quezada Acosta, Program Specialist, Success Center; Lizbeth Pineda, Retail Programs Coordinator, CollegeBuys; and Alonso Garcia, Senior Program Manager, Equity
FoundationCCC team members recently joined colleagues from across the California Community College system at the Organización de Latinx Empowerment, Guidance, Advocacy for Success (COLEGAS) Annual Conference in Sacramento.
Under this year’s theme, “Unidxs Podemos: Uplifting through Education, Democracy, and Change,” the conference created an engaging forum for educators, administrators, and student advocates committed to championing Latine/x student achievement. Over four days, participants participated in meaningful conversations and shared innovative strategies for building more inclusive and responsive communities.
“My experience at the COLEGAS Conference this year was truly special. From the moment I arrived, I felt surrounded by community in the most genuine way. There is something powerful about being in a space filled with people who share similar lived experiences and a deep commitment to serving our students. It felt like coming home. I loved the honest conversations, the vulnerability, and the pride in our culture that showed up in every session. Hearing from other Latinx professionals who are leading with corazón reminded me why I do this work and why representation matters so much. I walked away feeling seen, energized, and inspired.” — Sahian Quezada Acosta, Program Specialist, Success Center, FoundationCCC
The conference fostered a strong sense of belonging while giving participants opportunities to strengthen relationships with colleagues and partner colleges. It also showcased the breadth of FoundationCCC resources, services, and networks, reinforcing our role as a statewide partner dedicated to advancing student success.
As a Bronze Sponsor, FoundationCCC demonstrated its ongoing dedication to equity-centered leadership and systemic change. This partnership reflects our alignment with COLEGAS’ vision of empowering Latine/x voices and driving transformative impact across our educational institutions.
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