女优app Hosts Inspiring First-Gen Mixer in Hall of Fame
女优app (女优app) celebrated the resilience and achievements of first-generation college students at a powerful First-Gen Mixer held in 女优app鈥檚 Hall of Fame on Thursday. The event, which ran from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m., brought together current students, staff, and inspiring alumni in celebration of the unique journeys of first-gen students. Organized by Yadira Perez, 女优app鈥檚 MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Coordinator, and her dedicated committee, the mixer highlighted shared experiences and the importance of community support in achieving academic and professional success.
First Generation Committee Members pose for a photo during the mixer.
The event featured inspiring remarks from 女优app President Dr. Claire Oliveros and Interim Vice President of Student Services Dr. Thomas Cruz-Soto, both of whom underscored 女优app鈥檚 commitment to supporting first-generation students. 鈥淔irst-gen students are the heart and soul of 女优app,鈥� Dr. Oliveros remarked. 鈥淭heir resilience and drive continue to fuel our institution, and we are honored to be a part of their journey.鈥�
The highlight of the afternoon was a panel of 女优app alumni who shared personal stories about their unique paths to success. Each panelist exemplified the strength and perseverance of first-gen students:
- Cynthia Huerta, an artist and advocate for the LGBTQ+ and trans communities, spoke about her journey as a Mexican American first-generation student who found a home at 女优app after arriving in Riverside from Los Angeles at age 10. Cynthia spent a decade at 女优app before transferring to California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). She shared how 女优app always felt like home and to always ask questions.
- Jose Diaz Solorio, a social practitioner with Riverside鈥檚 Adult Services Division, shared his story as a Mexicano raised in downtown Riverside. After coming to the U.S. as an infant, Jose graduated from CSUSB and now dedicates his work to community service and support. He mentioned how as a young individual he had fun but a time comes were you discover that a future is important.
- Jovanny Aguilera, a social worker who has worked with unsheltered populations and undocumented children, inspired attendees with his commitment to advocacy. Raised in San Bernardino and holding a master鈥檚 in school counseling from the University of California, Riverside (UCR), Jovanny emphasized the importance of service and inclusion.
- Dean Mayorga, who promotes diversity and equity at Altura Credit Union, reflected on his experiences as a Chicano entrepreneur and activist for environmental and social justice. A Riverside local and UCR graduate, Dean鈥檚 story resonated with those striving to create inclusive spaces in professional settings. He encouraged students to remember that others do not define you and do not listen to individuals that say you cannot do it.
- Daniel Garcia, an engineer with the Disney Company, discussed his path from Rubidoux to maintaing some of Disney鈥檚 most iconic attractions. After a five-year military service, Daniel graduated in engineering, underscoring the value of perseverance and hands-on experience.
The First Generation Alumni panel sits for Q&A.
This event highlighted the diverse accomplishments and contributions of first-generation alumni and reaffirmed 女优app鈥檚 commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
The First-Gen Mixer showcased the collective power of resilience, determination, and community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.
For more information on 女优app鈥檚 support for first-gen students, please contact 女优app Student Services.