CVHEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE (Summer 2025)


Dr. Benjamín Durán, CVHEC executive director (right), moderated the final panel of the day, “What the CVHEC is Happening in the Central Valley,” at the CVHEC Summit held May 9 in Fresno. Panelists were Dr. James Zimmerman, University of California administrator who served with CVHEC’s Transfer Project team; Dr. Lynn Cevallos, founder and president of College Bridge, the lead partner in the Math Bridge Program with CVHEC and the Rand Corp.; and Dr. Kristin Clark, chancellor-emeritus of West Hills Community College District who is now CVHEC’s Dual Enrollment lead.

 

A spring of productivity in uncertain times

Focusing on our mission to stimulate a college-going culture in the Central Valley

Greetings CVHEC friends and colleagues … 

I hope you are all enjoying a well-deserved summer break and that your 4th of July with family and friends last month was a wonderful time.  This traditional national holiday is especially important to us all today in these uncertain times.

With the launch of our summer edition of the CVHEC e-newsletter, we reflect on an eventful and impactful spring semester and summer recess as we head into the 2025/26 Academic Year.  In this first half of the year, CVHEC colleges and universities engaged in several initiatives and projects that emerged organically in the region from faculty, staff and leaders who are dedicated to student success in all its forms. These productive efforts support our mission to stimulate a college-going culture for the improvement of the lives of our students and their families as well as improving the economic and social well-being of the Central Valley – the very essence of the CVHEC mission.

It is rewarding and heartwarming to see faculty and staff in the CVHEC region from the state’s four segments of higher education — community colleges, California State University campuses, University of California campuses, and our independent partners– all working collaboratively to implement strategies that reach across our ten-county region.

It is especially rewarding to see this power of collaboration through the eyes of an out-of-state partner and observer who joined us at our CVHEC Higher Education Summit in May: Dr. Brandon Protas from our partner organization, Complete College America. In addition to serving on a summit panel regarding the importance of data, Dr. Protas authored this month’s “What the CV-HEC is Happening” Blog where he aptly shares his thoughts on what he has experienced working with CVHEC.  I know you will enjoy reading about his national perspective of the unique culture he observes in the CVHEC universe.

Also, in our annual mid-year review, you will see a recap of the great work our intersegmental partners produced in these first six months around such initiatives like a regional transfer project that is a statewide model; and implementation of dual enrollment throughout the valley. This includes collaboration with K-12 partners towards student success in gateway courses like math and English by providing upskilling opportunities for high school teachers to earn master’s degrees in those two subject areas thus qualifying them to teach dual enrollment community college courses at their respective high schools).

We are looking forward to the second part of this year and all that the fall semester promises to bring.

To further strengthen our internal structure and objectives so we can support our consortium member institutions, the CVHEC Board of Directors will meet this summer to strategically plan for the next three years. These valley higher ed leaders will identify and deliberate new initiatives and approaches to serving and continue lifting our student populations as they pursue their academic goals.

The board will also examine how the region can come together to deal with the current national environment that is hostile to higher education and the decades-long mission of universities and colleges in the United States.  Stay tuned with our fall newsletters for updates regarding the direction of the consortium for the rest of 2025-26 and beyond.

I truly hope you enjoy this summer edition of the newsletter and find it worthy of your time. We encourage you to forward it to colleagues and urge them to subscribe to become part of the communications network we are building in the Central Valley for higher education professionals and partners locally, statewide and nationally.

Until the next issue, we wish you a productive but restful and enjoyable summer.

‘What the CV-HEC is Happening’ Blog (Summer 2025): Dr. Brandon Protas, Complete College America

For this summer edition of our “What the CV-HEC is Happening” blog, we feature Dr. Brandon Protas, assistant vice president for Alliance Engagement for Complete College America (CCA) based in Indianapolis. The Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) is one of 53 affiliates — states, systems and consortia — participating in the CCA Alliance nationwide. Dr. Protas, who resides in Colorado, was invited to Fresno for the CVHEC Summit in May to present on the panel, “Data at Every Level: Sharing National, State and Local Insights” (above). He addressed national trends in higher education, college completion rates and his higher education experiences nationwide. In this blog, Dr. Protas shares observations from the summit noting that CVHEC is a national model for strengthening higher education’s impact through unity and collaboration and the summit served as a clarion call in today’s climate of hostility against diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility as well as undocumented students. CCA is now preparing for its national conference set for Nov. 17-19 in Baltimore that is attended by a CVHEC delegation.

Reflections from the CVHEC Summit 2025: regional unity and collaboration

a national model for strengthening higher education impact

 

DR. BRANDON PROTAS

Assistant Vice President for Alliance Engagement

Complete College America

I was honored to participate in the 2025 Central Valley Higher Education Summit which showcased the remarkable power of collaboration across California’s educational sectors May 8 and 9 in Fresno.

It was my first visit to this Central California city and the annual summit that is presented by the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium that comprises 28 institutions of higher education in the 10- county region. The consortium is a partner in the Complete College America alliance.

The time in fellowship I experienced at the 2025 CVHEC Summit highlighted the collaborative approach of the Central Valley region and serves as a national model for strengthening higher education’s impact through unity and collaboration.

I saw first-hand how the Central Valley higher education momentum that emerged over those two days (the first day was a reception alive with genuine fellowship) provides an essential force to the nationwide movement for increased attainment rates.

In the West, the Central Valley stands out in its approach to higher education, illustrated by opening comments from University of California, Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz and chair of the CVHEC Board of Directors who noted this gathering was a reflection of how the colleges and universities operate together in the region through a spirit of cooperation rather than competition.

The building of solutions among the state’s four segments of higher education – the California Community Colleges, the California State University, the University of California, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities — played out throughout the summit and is a model worthy of attention.

For example, the Central Valley is focused on a number of pathway programs to open opportunities for students with multiple points of entry and connection. This includes dual enrollment initiatives, the Math Bridge Project, and the Transfer Project with its Program Pathways Mapper app for students, all of which were highlighted as essential tools for student success. These initiatives exemplify the region’s leadership in creating seamless educational journeys for students. This impact was reinforced by a panel of students whose testimony reminded us that their successes are direct outcomes of these programs.

Another theme of the summit was noted by Dr. Carole Goldsmith, chancellor of the State Center Community College District, who captured the essence of the event when she observed that a gathering like this has a restorative power for educators to draw strength from each other.

This sentiment resonates deeply in today’s challenging educational landscape and is paired with the importance of constructing and maintaining unified messaging.

For example, the transformative impact of financial aid on students’ ability to achieve their postsecondary goals is at risk. The billions of dollars of financial aid that students across the state receive not only impacts individual lives but also strengthens institutions and regional economies. By bringing together the power of the collective whole, the region can stay strong and advocate for policies that do support rather than harm students.

A powerful call-to-action that emerged throughout the summit is to amplify student stories, demonstrate higher education’s local economic impact, and preserve support programs that enhance student wellbeing. We heard that the Central Valley has only become more excellent as it has become more diverse.

This serves as a clarion call in today’s climate of hostility against diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility as well as undocumented students. As was noted in the summit, California is and has been compliant with state and federal laws on these issues. The law hasn’t changed, and therefore neither should the practices that support students.

CCA looks forward to continued collaboration with our alliance partner CVHEC as we work on various national initiatives together enroute to our national conference Nov. 17 in Baltimore.

(CVHEC blog submissions are welcome for consideration: Tom Uribes, cvheccommunications@mail.fresnostate.edu).

CVHEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE (June 2025)

CVHEC board meeting and summit: ‘reaffirming

the power of regional unity in advancing student success’

Greetings CVHEC friends and colleagues … 

Welcome to our June newsletter as we close out another academic year in the Central Valley.  We wish all our colleagues a Happy National Higher Education Day on June 6!

This year, especially the last five months under a new Administration in Washington D.C., has been a tumultuous and challenging year in higher education. That is why it was appropriate for the consortium to wrap up the year with our annual The Central Valley Higher Education Summit May 9 under the theme, “Navigating Higher Education in a New Era – The Central Valley Way.”

In keeping with that theme, the CVHEC Board of Directors met the day before the summit and hosted a virtual presentation on the current state of higher education in the nation delivered by Jon Fansmith, senior vice president of Governmental Relations at the American Council on Education (ACE).  His presentation and interaction with the presidents and chancellors of our region’s higher education institutions were well received and insightful.

On summit day, May 9, we continued the conversations hearing from our legislative partners: Congressmembers Jim Costa (21st District) and Adam Gray (13th District), both from the U.S House of Representatives; and California State Assemblymember Esmeralda Zamudio Soria (District 27).  The three legislators shared their perspectives on the current state of the nation and specific areas and initiatives they were involved in to improve the higher education landscape in the country.

The summit further showcased much of the work valley college and universities undertook this year to improve student access and success in the current environment.  Panels for the day, including representatives from the state’s four higher education systems, highlighted the great efforts of faculty and staff in the region to make the Central Valley a great place for higher education as well our students and their experiences in addition.

The event ended with a conversation between summit attendees and California State Attorney General Rob Bonta, who joined us virtually to share his thoughts and comments about California’s role with other states in combatting the challenges coming from the current Administration.  He was able and willing to answer some questions from the floor.

The board meeting and summit came at a pivotal time. Our region continues to navigate pressing challenges — from enrollment shifts to financial aid changes — while national policies are quickly evolving in ways that deeply affect our students.  As challenges in higher education continue to evolve — particularly for our rural and underserved areas — CVHEC remains a critical force in ensuring that the Central Valley’s colleges and universities not only adapt but thrive.

With continued collaboration and a shared vision, the consortium board meeting and summit reaffirmed the power of regional unity in advancing student success. Bringing our leadership together in one room to engage in this dialogue is essential for shaping a voice for higher education the Central Way as we move forward.

Now, with the completion of another commencement season, we hope you enjoy our blog this month featuring Class of 2025 graduate Ellie Oliva recounting the joys of walking for two degrees in less than one year. This is why we do it all!

We wish all our colleagues a Happy National Higher Education Day on June 6 with our  photo galleries (summit and board/reception) … as well as a great and well-deserved summer break. We hope you all have an opportunity to find some time to rest and reflect on another productive year as we prepare to meet new challenges for the advancement of our students. Now, enjoy the warm months ahead!

‘What the CV-HEC is Happening’ Blog (June): Commencement 2025 – Ellie Oliva

Like many seniors, Ellie Oliva had big college dreams after graduating from high school. But, also like  numerous students, her plans changed and she “took a break” to earn some money and “live life” before eventually returning to her academic journey. For this commencement season “What the CV-HEC is Happening” blog, we recruited Ellie to tell her story of not giving up on her dream and eventually experiencing the thrill of graduating from two CVHEC-member colleges in the past 365 days including walking in two commencement events in May — commencement month for most institutions of higher education. Right after her Fresno State graduation May 17, Ellie began her full-time professional career with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fresno as its communications and engagement coordinator.

The commencement ‘walk’ – a joyous

and validating experience

BY ELLIE OLIVA
Class of 2025 – Fresno State

Growing up, I always had a plan … vague, but a plan nonetheless.

I would graduate high school and go to college — University of Southern California — because staying in Fresno was not a part of that plan, no matter how unsteady that was. I would major in psychology and become a therapist, and that’s where my “plan” ended. Imagine my surprise when it didn’t play out the way I envisioned it.

I started off on-track, graduating from Clovis West High School in 2015. However, after missing several college application deadlines, I detoured from my plan and enrolled at Clovis Community College. I started with psychology, then changed it to liberal studies – thinking maybe I could become a teacher. Finally, I landed in communications. Looking back, these mishaps helped me figure out what I really wanted. By the time I decided to transfer over to Fresno City College, things started to feel right.

I enjoyed my time at Fresno City. Unfortunately, however, no matter how pleasant it was to be in a new environment and pursuing a major I finally liked, there was still something missing. I did not feel motivated or genuinely happy about where I was in my life. I had not been a full-time student since my first semester at Clovis Community, and yet, I still felt like it was too much to keep up with. When the pandemic hit, and everything went online, I took it as a sign to take a much-needed break.

My break ended in spring 2023 when I re-enrolled and completed my Associate of Arts degree at Fresno City College. I had a new plan, new motivation and fire that told me I was back on the right path. By spring 2024, I was a full-time student at Fresno State majoring in Media, Communications and Journalism with an emphasis in Advertising and Public Relations.

Finally enrolled at a four-year university, I was equally excited and intimidated — especially after not being a full-time student since my first semester at Clovis Community. The feeling of being at Fresno State and pursuing a major that I thoroughly enjoyed was indescribable. I could write and be creative while being surrounded by people with similar interests. I could work in a team and share interesting ideas that would be continuously bounced off one another. It all felt so right.

The journey wasn’t over, though. That same semester I made a grad plan with an advisor to map out the rest of my time at Fresno State. I asked if we could make it so I would graduate by spring 2025. It’s not that I was in a hurry, but I was just so excited and the most motivated I had ever been. I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could do it. By fall 2024, my 16 units turned into 18 units and I found myself enrolled in seven classes as well as an internship with the Fresno Arts Council, and still working part-time at a local restaurant. It was a very busy year, but worth it. And, I was still able to make the Dean’s List.

That brings us to the spring 2025 semester, the semester I finally graduated from Fresno State. It was my favorite semester by far. I made new friends and gained incredible experiences with my projects and internship at Fresnoland. I noticed the most growth this semester, personally and academically.

All my hard work was quickly coming to a head. Just the year before, I graduated from Fresno City, and now I was getting ready to walk in not one Fresno State commencement, but two – the College of Arts and Humanities Convocation and the Chicano/Latino Commencement Celebration. The decision to walk in both commencement events was an easy one. I was originally planning to just do the one graduation for my major – Arts and Humanities. However, when my grandparents made me aware of the Chicano/Latino Commencement, I knew it would be important to them, so I agreed to walk in that one as well. I am the first in my family to graduate college, and being able to celebrate my heritage along with this milestone was thrilling.

Getting ready for the Arts and Humanities graduation on May 16 was by far the most surreal moment I had. My friends and I walked through the backstage halls of the Save Mart Center and into the arena where we could see everyone’s friends and families in the stands. Being surrounded by all of my peers, whom I had seen every day for the past year, was an incredible feeling.

The Chicano/Latino Commencement was the next day, May 17, and the high was still there. This commencement was bigger than the one before and much more lively. There were so many students that, after the first section had walked, we took a break which ended up turning into a dance party on the arena floor. There was music, clapping and both crowds (students and attendees) started a wave that went around at least ten times! The shared excitement and joy was beautiful, infectious and unforgettable. It was a true celebration.

All of that leads to where I am now. My undergrad journey has ended, and a new chapter begins. About a month before I graduated, I sought and was offered a position at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fresno as communications and engagement coordinator. Here at the beginning of June, I am completing my fourth week, and it has been a marvelous experience so far. Graduating with a degree in advertising/public relations as opposed to a psychology degree is gratifying.

My higher education journey has been such a validating experience. I was able to prove to myself that I can do it and I am a hard worker. School was always something I wanted to resume. I am overjoyed that I made that decision because it has brought forth all these opportunities I do not believe I would have gotten otherwise.

Although my original “plan” did not go accordingly, I still am so proud of myself and am excited for what’s next. I am grateful for the higher education opportunities that are available to us today.

(CVHEC blog submissions are welcome for consideration: Tom Uribes, cvheccommunications@mail.fresnostate.edu).

CVHEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE (April 2025)

Read more

‘What the CV-HEC is Happening’ Blog: Dr. Kristin Clark  

This edition of the “What the CV-HEC is Happening” Blog features Dr. Kristin Clark, chancellor-emeritus of the West Hills Community College District, who in March came out of short-lived  retirement to  join the CVHEC team as dual enrollment lead, announced in our March issue by Dr. Benjamín Durán, CVHEC executive director. Here Dr. Clark provides some insight into this bold move to throw down the retirement mantle and resume her “commitment to higher education, particularly in support of those who have been marginalized and underserved.” For more information about partnering with CVHEC’s dual enrollment team, contact us at CVHECinfo@mail.fresnostate.edu.  (CVHEC blog submissions are welcome for consideration: Tom Uribes, cvheccommunications@mail.fresnostate.edu).

 Retired, but not expired: a higher ed encore

BY DR. KRISTIN CLARK

CVHEC Dual Enrollment Lead

Chancellor-emeritus, West Hills Community College District

In August 2024, after 30 years in higher education, I made the difficult decision to retire so I could focus on traveling, spending more time with family and doing things I love — like flying and gardening. Some people said I was “too young to retire,” and although I retired earlier than most, my passion for education — and my belief that it is the gateway to freedom — will never wane.

My career has been driven by a deep commitment to expanding access to education, supporting student success and promoting economic opportunity in my community. Even in retirement, I was certain I would remain engaged in this important work in a meaningful way.

After a two-month adventure across Switzerland, France, Portugal and Spain with my husband, I’m eager to re-engage in the field I love. My commitment to higher education, particularly in support of those who have been marginalized and underserved, remains unwavering. I’ve always believed that education is the key to personal freedom — it gives people the power to shape their own futures rather than having circumstances dictate them.

More broadly, education is the cornerstone of our democracy — it empowers

individuals, strengthens communities and fuels economic mobility. As a first-generation college graduate who took a non-traditional path through education and my career, I understand first-hand both the transformative power of learning and the barriers many students face in achieving their goals.

The Central Valley’s unique challenges and strengths

In the Central Valley, these challenges are especially pronounced. Many students face financial insecurity, limited access to educational opportunities, family responsibilities and even basic logistical barriers like transportation. Just as I was fortunate to have mentors who guided and encouraged me, I believe we share a responsibility to ensure that every student has the support, resources and motivation they need to succeed.

One of the greatest strengths of the Central Valley’s higher education landscape is its collaborative leadership. The region’s college and university CEOs are some of the most innovative and student-centered leaders in the country. Over the past few months, I’ve missed the dynamic exchanges and strategic problem-solving that happen when visionary leaders come together to drive student success.

As a consortium, we’ve been laser-focused on student-centered strategies that lead to degree completion and upward economic mobility — goals that remain as critical as ever. And I still want to be involved.

The power of collaboration

In today’s increasingly complex and politically charged environment, higher education leaders face immense challenges in balancing a myriad of priorities while keeping students at the center.

That’s why collaboration is more important than ever. Organizations like the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) play a vital role in supporting institutional leaders by providing research, resources, and a collaborative space to drive systemic change.

I believe that by working together, we can push the envelope to pursue bold and innovative initiatives that remove barriers for students, enhance economic development, and strengthen our workforce. I want to be part of innovative initiatives that produce real, measurable outcomes.

Taking action: expanding and supporting dual enrollment

One of my first projects in this new chapter is helping expand and support dual enrollment — a proven tool for improving college access and success.  Research shows that dual enrollment increases college participation and success, and it provides students with the confidence and momentum to continue their education beyond high school.

With that in mind, I’m excited to join CVHEC as a core team member and work alongside Elaine Cash, CVHEC members, K-12 partners and other education leaders to develop a dual enrollment playbook. This resource will highlight best practices and provide much-needed guidance for our partners, helping to streamline pathways, address equity gaps and create more opportunities for students to get a head start on their college journey.

If you have ideas for this playbook, please reach out. Elaine and I are listening.

Looking ahead

The challenges ahead are significant, and as a recently retired administrator, I understand the competing demands and pressures that today’s higher education leaders face. That’s why I’m committed to playing a supporting role in regional projects — offering my experience, passion and insight to help our institutions and leaders navigate these challenges and create lasting change.

I care deeply about our region and believe that through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to student success, we can create a future where every learner can achieve their dreams.

I’m excited for what’s ahead and honored to be part of this work. Most of all, I’m thrilled to continue working with some of my favorite colleagues, Central Valley leaders, who share my passion for education and are dedicated to making a difference.

Let’s get to work! I hope to see many of you at the upcoming Higher Education Summit as well!

CVHEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE (March 2025)

 

Spring excitement in the valley’s higher education scene

Greetings CVHEC friends and colleagues …

With the spring 2025 semester now in full swing, welcome to our March newsletter.  We are excited about all that is going on in the Central Valley region beginning with our annual CVHEC Higher Education Summit set for May 9, 2025.

Registration is now available as we continue preparing for the summit. We welcome and encourage your participation this year.

In this issue, please read about some of the summit topics we will be covering.  Among those topics will be the work that the CVHEC Math Task Force has been undertaking to deal with the changing math requirements in higher education throughout the state mandated through Assembly Bill 1705. They will be holding a follow-up convening March 28 that will include a presentation by two valley community college math professors who traveled to Atlanta for a national math conference where they shared the “Central Valley Way” underlying the task force’s work the past two years.

Also, this issue we are excited to feature the recent California Dual Enrollment Equity Conference in Sacramento where I led a delegation of team members and high school educators for a panel we were invited to present, “Using Dual Enrollment as a tool for Math Alignment and Increasing Instructor Capacity in the Central Valley.”

Speaking before a very interested audience of educators from throughout the state on Feb. 24, we discussed how our Master’s Upskilling Program — generously funded by our partners: the Fresno/Madera K16 Collaborative, the Kern K16 Collaborative and the We Wil K16 Collaborative – is providing  approximately 225 high school teachers from throughout the Central Valley with the opportunity to earn Master’s degrees in English or mathematics making them eligible to teach dual enrollment courses. In addition to the upskilling program, we were joined by College Bridge and two valley educators to discuss how our Math Bridge program is working collaboratively and creatively with secondary and post-secondary educators to  systemically align college and high school math programs, creating a seamless transition for students.

Also, enjoy this month’s “What the CV-HEC is Happening” Blog from our guest contributor, valley native, Dr. Iliana Perez. She is the executive director of Immigrants Rising, an advocacy group based in San Francisco that has been assisting member colleges of the consortium, as well as throughout the state, with information regarding the current status of undocumented students in higher education and resources available to them.  Once a dreamer student herself at CVHEC-member Fresno State, Iliana presents a remarkable academic journey that now has her giving back to her community in a significant manner in support of vulnerable students.

We are also happy to welcome Dr.  Kristin Clark, chancellor-emeritus of West Hills Community College District, who joins our CVHEC Team as dual enrollment lead, just in time for Dual Enrollment Week March 10-14.  Welcome Kristin!

May your spring semester be fruitful and enjoyable and what better way than to join us at our higher education summit May 9?

‘What the CV-HEC is Happening’ Blog: Immigrants Rising – undocumented students on campus

This edition of the “What the CV-HEC is Happening” Blog features Dr. Iliana Pérez, executive director of Immigrants Rising, a San Francisco-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing opportunities for undocumented communities.  Founded in 2006, Immigrants Rising transforms individuals and fuels broader changes to help our nation edge closer to fulfilling its ideal as a land of opportunity and access for all. With resources and support, undocumented people are able to get an education, pursue careers and build a brighter future for themselves and their community. Dr. Pérez, who was raised in the Central Valley native (Turlock), is an alumna of CVHEC-member Fresno State Fresno State where she earned a BA in mathematics before attending Claremont University for her master’s in economics and her PhD in education policy, evaluation and reform. She and her organization have worked with several CVHEC-member campuses regarding issues related to undocumented students including an entrepreneurship incubator and pitch competition for undocumented students with a shark tank style competition planned at Fresno State later this semester.  In this month’s blog, she shares her personal experience as an undocumented student who has reinvested herself in her community. She outlines gains and ongoing challenges in that landscape and resources regarding undocumented students available to institutions of higher education.  CVHEC members interested in collaborating with Immigrants Rising for their undocumented students may contact Dr. Pérez at iliana@immigrantsrising.org. (Submissions are welcome for consideration: Tom Uribes, cvheccommunications@mail.fresnostate.edu).

Blazing a Trail: my journey as an undocumented student

and the path forward for higher education

BY DR. ILIANA PÉREZ
Executive Director, Immigrants Rising

Growing up undocumented in the United States, higher education often felt like an impossible dream. The barriers were daunting, and the path ahead was unclear. Yet, with resilience, the support of my family and community, and the guidance of dedicated educators, I navigated my way from being an undocumented student to ultimately becoming one of the first undocumented Ph.D.s in the nation.

Today, as the executive director of Immigrants Rising, I see both the incredible progress we have made and the challenges that still lie ahead for undocumented students in higher education. It is my pleasure to see many more undocumented students breaking barriers, knowing that our collective success is shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. It is your necessary presence that transforms higher education and your resilience that carves out a future where undocumented students are an integral part of higher education. Your dreams, contributions, and belonging will shape the future of education for generations to come.

A mentor once told me, “We can’t make big, bold changes by remaining the token person — we must push forward, bring others with us, and work toward systemic change.”

Many undocumented students on this journey today may be facing some critical questions: Do my contributions matter? Are my dreams valid? What legacy — what journey can there be for human beings like me with this uncertainty? Do I belong here? These are questions that loomed over me when I began my academic journey at Fresno State in 2005. Considerable progress has been made since then, but today, these questions resurface.

My academic journey was deeply shaped by my time at Fresno State, a proud member of Central Valley Higher Education Consortium. As an undergraduate, I experienced firsthand the power of a supportive institution — one that embraced students like me, who often had to carve our own paths when there were no clear policies and financial aid structures. Fortunately, I was able to secure a full-ride scholarship through the Smittcamp Family Honors College at Fresno State, which provided the financial stability I needed to focus on my studies. However, even with this scholarship, barriers remained. I was restricted from employment and paid career training opportunities and remained uncertain about my undocumented status. At the time, about 1,620 undocumented students enrolled in higher education faced significant hurdles: ineligibility for federal financial aid, limited access to scholarships, and the ever-present fear of being unable to continue our education due to policy changes beyond our control.

Despite these challenges, I found support in the form of mentors, allies, and advocacy efforts within Fresno State and beyond. AB 540, which allowed me to pay in-state tuition, was a lifeline that enabled me to pursue my education, but just as crucial were the people who believed in my potential. After graduating from Fresno State, I continued my academic journey, eventually earning a doctorate—a milestone that once seemed unattainable. My pursuit of higher education was fueled by a commitment to open doors for others, just as so many had done for me.

My experiences as an undocumented student have informed my work in advocacy, research, and policy, particularly in ensuring that our higher education institutions can effectively support undocumented students and prepare them for their careers. It is not enough for these students to be admitted; they must receive the resources and structures necessary to succeed in higher education and beyond.

Today, we have made significant strides in California to support undocumented students. We have expanded AB 540 and passed the California DREAM Act to make higher education more accessible to undocumented students. We’ve also passed legislation that enables undocumented professionals to get professional licenses — all opportunities that did not exist a decade ago. Many colleges and universities, including those within CVHEC, have established undocumented student resource centers, offering critical guidance on financial aid, mental health, and career pathways.

Yet, challenges remain. Federal inaction on immigration reform continues to leave undocumented students in a precarious situation, uncertain of their futures. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is no longer available to new applicants, and the program itself remains under threat, exacerbating the uncertainty faced by many students.

Today, It is estimated that there are about 86,805 undocumented students enrolled in higher education in California and each year about 14,000 undocumented high school students graduate who are ineligible to apply for DACA. Additionally, there has been a decline in enrollment into higher education, as many undocumented students face mounting financial barriers and concerns about their future. Access to internships, professional licensure, and postgraduate opportunities remains a major hurdle, limiting the career trajectories of countless talented individuals. Moreover, the mental and emotional toll of living with uncertainty weighs heavily on undocumented students, impacting their academic and personal well-being.

As I work with CVHEC and its member institutions, I am reminded daily of the critical role that higher education plays in shaping opportunities for students like me. Institutions must go beyond simply admitting us; they must ensure we thrive. This means expanding access to institutional aid, advocating for inclusive policies at the state and federal levels, and fostering an environment where undocumented students feel seen and supported. Colleges and universities must also actively engage in career development efforts, ensuring undocumented students can access paid experiential and research training and learn about entrepreneurship opportunities. By leveraging community partnerships and state resources, institutions can help bridge the gap between education and career success.

As we look to the future, it is imperative that we continue advocating for systemic changes that will allow undocumented students to thrive. Through collective action, institutional commitment, and policy advancements, we can ensure that higher education remains a powerful vehicle for social mobility and justice. At Immigrants Rising, we are dedicated to providing undocumented students with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to achieve their academic and career aspirations. By fostering a community of empowerment and opportunity, we continue to push for systemic change and a future where all students, regardless of immigration status, can thrive. I invite you to join us in this mission—whether through advocacy, mentorship, or supporting policies that create more inclusive opportunities. Together, we can make a transformative and tangible difference in the lives of undocumented students and ensure that higher education remains accessible to all.

So, to all the undocumented students navigating this journey today: You belong in higher education. Your dreams are valid, your contributions matter, and your presence is reshaping the landscape of academia for generations to come. The moment you step onto a college campus, you are building a legacy that challenges barriers and opens doors for those who follow. Your journey is powerful, and your success will inspire countless others to dream bigger and strive for more.

CVHEC members interested in collaborating with Immigrants Rising for their undocumented students may contact Dr. Pérez at iliana@immigrantsrising.org.

CVHEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE (February 2025)


Dr. Sonya Christian, California Community Colleges chancellor (second from left), and Central Valley Higher Education Consortium executive director Benjamin Duran (third from left) greeted high school student panelists at the Dual Enrollment In the Central Valley Convening 2025 – CVHEC/CVDEEP where she delivered keynote Feb. 3: Jonathan Alfaro and Ailyn Morales of Mendota High School with Principal Travis Kirby; and Isaac Dircio and Andres Medina Zapien of McFarland High (McFarland Unified School District) with Jill Jimenez and Jordynn Jimenez of McFarland High School Dual Enrollment.

CVHEC: power of collaboration – the ‘Central Valley Way’

Greetings CVHEC friends and colleagues …

This February edition of our Central Valley Higher Education Consortium newsletter continues sharing with you the great work that the boots-on-the-ground folks at our member institutions are doing to serve our students.

You will read about two convenings, the recent Central Valley Dual Enrollment Convening with 140 attendees and the Central Valley Math Task Force Convening scheduled for March 28. These two high-powered collaborations showcase the work our colleges and universities are doing in both the expansion of dual enrollment providing opportunities for high school students to take college courses while in high school, and addressing the challenging college level math courses that are essential for them to be successful in college.

Also, please make sure you read about our unique-to-California Central Valley Transfer Project.  The project has provided academic transfer pathways for Central Valley community students from our regional community colleges to the three California State Universities in the valley and UC Merced.  The outcomes from these efforts have been impressive in terms of dramatically improving transfer rates while closing the gaps between the general student population and valley students of color.  The project was designated a California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office Demonstration Project in 2023, by Chancellor Sonya Christian. We are proud to report to her that it is now ready to be disseminated to the rest of the state as a model that is ready to be replicated.

This month’s “What the CV-HEC is Happening” blog is an entry by a local attorney, Ashley Emerzian, about the legal aspects around hazing on higher education campuses.  Please enjoy her entry and we hope you learn more about the topic as you peruse the article.   Ashley has graciously offered to  submit articles highlighting higher education legal issues relevant to our region  for future CVHEC newsletters as well.

This CVHEC Board of Directors  also has a busy schedule this spring as its members – the chancellors, presidents and campus directors of our 28 member institutions of higher education in the valley — prepare for the spring quarterly board meeting and a strategic planning retreat.

Additionally, as they move forward under the leadership of CVHEC Board Chair, UC Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz, we  look  forward to the annual CVHEC Higher Education Summit scheduled for May 9.  Please mark your calendars and stay tuned for further details. We look forward to having you join us to continue collaborating “the Central Valley Way!”

Please enjoy our newsletter and feel free to share it with your colleagues and friends and encourage  them to subscribe.

‘What the CV-HEC is Happening’ Blog: Stop Campus Hazing Act

This edition of the “What the CV-HEC is Happening “ Blog for the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium February newsletter features Fresno attorney Ashley Emerzian of Emerzian Shankar Legal Inc. providing insights into the Stop Campus Hazing Act that was signed into law by President Biden in December, and the newly enhanced Clery Act that requires universities to include hazing data in their annual Clery Reports as well as publish a separate report which describes hazing violations. She reports that “staggering” statistics on higher education campus hazing have been widely reported in recent years and presents key areas of compliance that institutions of higher education will need to implement this year including deadlines and penalties such as loss of federal financial aid funding for Clery violations. She is joined in this blog by law partner Jenna Cummings and Pamela Schock of CVHEC-member Fresno Pacific University.

New year, new laws:
the Stop Campus Hazing Act is now in effect

By Ashley N. Emerzian, Esq. and Jenna Cummings, Esq.,
Emerzian Shankar Legal Inc.

and Pamela Schock, M.A., Assistant Dean of Student Development
Fresno Pacific University

In higher education, the number of laws and regulations impacting operations – everything from facilities to human resources and student affairs – is numerous and constantly changing.  2025 is trending towards more of the same.

One of the most recent new laws impacting the higher education sector is the new federal Stop Campus Hazing Act (“Act”).  On December 11, 2024, the Senate passed the Stop Campus Hazing Act, which President Biden signed into law on December 24, 2024. The Act applies to all institutions of higher education in the United States that receive federal funding under Title IV.

Statistics on higher education campus hazing have been widely reported in recent years and are, in many ways, staggering.  A prominent national study conducted in 2008 found that more than half of college students involved in a club, team, or other organization experience some form of campus hazing.[1]  In athletics, the same study reported that 74% of students involved in varsity athletics programs experienced hazing.[2]  This includes forced or coerced alcohol consumption, humiliation, isolation, sleep-deprivation, or sex acts – which were found by the study to be common across student groups, and across various types of higher education institutions.

Risks to higher education institutions of this behavior occurring on campus are also wide-ranging, including managing student harm and discipline resulting from the conduct, student attrition, negative press, and complex overlays with a variety of laws including Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act, and the Clery Act.

The newly enhanced Clery Act, which already required universities to collect and report data regarding crimes on or around campus, now requires universities to include hazing data in their annual Clery Reports. The Act also requires universities to publish a separate report which describes hazing violations. Key areas of compliance Universities will need to implement this year are addressed below.

Clery Report Requirement

Starting January 1, 2025, universities must collect data on hazing incidents reported to campus security or police, even if the incidents occur within student organizations that are not officially recognized by the university. Importantly, the Act defines a student organization as any organization that involves two or more members of the higher education institution. This presents unique jurisdictional considerations for universities to grapple with, particularly if they are typically used to enforcement of policies and procedures only for recognized organizations.

Additionally, universities must begin including this hazing data in their annual Clery Reports, starting with their 2025 Clery Report, which is due October 1, 2026.  So, what is hazing?

The Act provides a comprehensive definition of hazing incidents which must be logged.  The definition includes, but is not necessarily limited to, any “intentional, knowing, or reckless act” committed by one or more persons against another person, regardless of whether the victim participates willingly, that is part of an initiation or in affiliation with a student organization.  Examples include causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing: whipping, beating, electric shock, placing harmful substances on one’s body; sleep deprivation, confinement in small spaces, extreme calisthenics; consumption of food, drug, alcohol or other substances; criminal acts; placing one in reasonable fear of bodily harm through threatening words or conduct; or sexual acts.

Publishing of Hazing Policies

Universities must begin publishing their hazing policies no later than June 24, 2025. These publications may be based on the university’s own definition of hazing instead of the act’s definition. However, deviations from the Acts definition should be considered carefully and in consultation with student affairs administration and legal counsel.  The policies must include information on how to report hazing, how hazing is investigated, as well as state and local laws on hazing. The disclosure must also describe hazing prevention and awareness programs.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report

In addition to including hazing data in their annual Clery Report, institutions must begin publishing a separate report, called a Campus Hazing Transparency Report, by December 24, 2025. The report must include information about student organizations that have been found in violation of the institution’s hazing policy. Unlike the Clery Report, this report only needs to include information about recognized or established student organizations. The report must include specific details about the hazing violations, such as the names of the student organizations found responsible, descriptions of the violations, sanctions imposed, and whether alcohol and drugs were involved. Universities must exclude personally identifiable information of involved students from this report in order to comply with FERPA.

Universities’ first transparency report should include information dating back to July 1, 2025. Institutions must update the Report at least two (2) times a year with information regarding new hazing violations and keep each report publicly available on their website for five (5) years after publication.

Penalties

The Department of Education may impose civil monetary penalties for violations of the Clery Act where the institution is found to have “substantially misrepresented the number, location, or nature of the crimes required to be reported.” The current maximum penalty is $69,733 per violation; however, this maximum will be readjusted for inflation in 2025. Additionally, institutions can lose their federal financial aid funding for Clery violations.

As we look forward to 2025, it is recommended that universities begin coordinating their departments to begin implementation of these requirements, including the policy development work that will need to be completed this spring.

For more information, contact Ashley at aemerzian@eslegalinc.com

[1] National Study of Student Hazing, Hazing in View:  Students at Risk, Dr. Elizabeth Allan and Dre. Mary Madden, 2006-2008.

[2] Id.

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