Fostering a Sense of Belonging: Cultural Centers in Community Colleges
Tuesday, 3/12/2024
3:50 PM - 4:40 PM
Summit 447
Coordinating Presenter
Maria Dela Cruz
Dean of Counseling
Santa Ana College
Presenters
Gregory Toya Dean of Student Affairs, Santa Ana College
Connie Yamashiro Director, Student Development and Engagement, Fullerton College
Julio Reyes Cabezas Student Services Specialist, California State University-Long Beach
Rodrigo Marcos Ramirez Santa Ana College
Abstract
Sense of belonging can be defined as feeling like you are a valuable member of a community. For many disproportionately impacted students in community colleges, feeling a sense of belonging is integral to their academic and personal success. Cultural centers promote a sense of belonging and retention for students. Many community colleges do not have or are still developing cultural centers for their students. The presenters will describe cultural centers at two community colleges and how they enhance the student experience.
Conference Focus Areas
Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Professional Competencies
Advising and Supporting - Foundational, Social Justice and Inclusion - Foundational
Content Areas
Counseling and Mental Health Services, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Programs and Advocacy, Undocumented Immigrants and Allies
Target Groups
Community College Professionals, Mid-level Student Affairs Professionals
Institutional Types
Community Colleges, Mid-Size Colleges & Universities
Certification Types
CE Credit - SJI, CE Credit - CORE
Certification Domains
Student Learning, Development, and Success, Social Justice and Inclusion
Guiding Principle
Inclusion
13770 - Fostering a Sense of Belonging: Cultural Centers in Community Colleges - General Interest Session
