In recent weeks, FoundationCCC programs have been active across California, engaging with communities in our ongoing commitment to equity, access, and student success. From supporting aspiring legal and medical professionals to strengthening career pathways and showcasing statewide innovation, these efforts reflect the practical ways we’re helping students move forward in their education and careers.

Law Day featured keynote Sergio Covarrubias Garcia, a trailblazing attorney, and Aidin Castillo Mazantini, Executive Director of UC Immigrant Legal Services Center.

California LAW Pathways (Cal LAW) hosted its annual Law Day event on May 1. The virtual event, “The Constitution’s Promise: Out of Many, One,” highlighted the strength of our nation’s diversity and the vital contributions of immigrants. Attended by educators and students from high schools, community colleges, four-year institutions, and law schools across the state, the event served as a valuable opportunity to promote civic education and inspire the next generation of justice advocates.

Law Day featured keynote Sergio Covarrubias Garcia, a trailblazing attorney, and Aidin Castillo Mazantini, Executive Director of UC Immigrant Legal Services Center.

At the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Annual Conference, FoundationCCC team members led a session titled “Finish Line Scholars Program: Removing Barriers to Student Success.”
The discussion focused on how colleges have streamlined the scholarship and financial aid application process while identifying opportunities to eliminate structural barriers to student success—particularly by advancing equity in scholarship selection, awarding, and disbursement.

From l to r: Keetha Mills, President and CEO, FoundationCCC; Jodi Samuels, Senior Director, Strategic Support for Colleges and Scholars; and Tim Morehouse, Associate Director, Guided Pathways Implementation, Success Center at the 2025 AACC Annual Conference.

On May 1, the California Medicine Scholars Program (CMSP) hosted its annual Virtual Student Conference, providing pre-medical students with access to peer networking, professional development, and conversations with medical leaders across the state. This year’s event focused on student empowerment and the importance of representation in the medical field. More than just bringing together CMSP scholars in one virtual space, the event empowered students to assert their voice and presence throughout their journey to medical school. Visit the event page to learn more about the speakers.

California Community College Association for Occupational Education (CCCAOE) Spring Conference

Our Workforce Development team recently participated in the CCCAOE Spring Conference, where they connected with statewide partners to strengthen career education and workforce training. The team shared insights on industry engagement, equitable pathways, and scalable strategies to increase opportunities within green energy, equitable apprenticeship pathways, and quality, sustainable programs.

Additionally, our Community Impact and Equity teams collaborated on the student panel, featuring student ambassadors from across the state—each representing a unique student ambassador program: Clean Mobility, AANHPI, Foster Youth, and Forestry. The student leaders shared their experiences navigating higher education while advocating for their communities on and off campus. From lessons learned as student ambassadors to the power of speaking up, they reflected on how students can lead, influence, and inspire meaningful change. What unfolded was an honest and empowering conversation about the vital role of student leadership in transforming higher education. Panelists shared their unique perspectives as first-generation students and the barriers they’ve overcome, highlighting the importance of representation and advocacy for historically underserved communities.

Events like these are essential for promoting collaboration and dialogue among community members and organizations. By working together, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment that benefits everyone. 

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