⭐️ Presented by the César Chávez Youth Leadership Conference Team (DEI | HSI) 
⭐️ Sponsored Regional K-16 Collaborative Grant Program and Undergraduate Admissions

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Join us for an informative and inspirational event!

Saturday May 10, 2025 • 8:00am - 3:00pm • University Credit Union Center • University of California, Davis

Jump to: Workshop Descriptions  //  Workshop Schedule Grid  //  List of Community and College Resource Fair Exhibitors  //  Map and Building Pictures  //  Parking & Buses

It's going to be warm Saturday so please bring your refillable water bottles!

2025 CCYLC Program

Bienvenida/Welcome: HSI Director Blas Guerrero

Dr. Blas Guerrero is a highly respected and accomplished educator who brings a wealth of experience to this role. He retired from UC Davis in 2021 after a distinguished 25-year career, most notably as the Director of Strategic Diversity Recruitment and Transfer Initiatives. He served as the Dean of Admissions at Samuel Merritt University after his time at UC Davis. Dr. Guerrero is deeply committed to UC Davis and its HSI designation goals.

Opening Remarks: Chancellor Gary S. May

Gary S. May is the seventh chancellor of UC Davis, one of the nation’s most academically and socially diverse universities. He is leading the university to new heights in academic excellence, enterprise research, public service and upward mobility for students of all backgrounds.

Chancellor May came to UC Davis in 2017 after serving as dean of Georgia Tech’s College of Engineering, the nation’s largest and most diverse school of its kind. May has won numerous awards for his research in computer-aided manufacturing of integrated circuits. In 2010, he was named “outstanding engineering alumnus” of UC Berkeley, where he earned his master’s and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering and computer science.

Keynote Speaker: Raquel E. Aldana

Raquel Aldana joined UC Davis in 2017 to serve as the inaugural Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Diversity and returned to full time law teaching in 2020. Aldana is a graduate of Arizona State University and Harvard Law School. Aldana has led research projects and programs around gender violence, transitional justice, criminal justice, sustainable development, immigrant justice, and immigrant trauma. Her research has focused on transitional justice, criminal justice reforms and sustainable development in Latin America, as well as immigrant rights. She has authored or edited five books and published over thirty law review articles or book chapters. Since 2021, Aldana serves as Co-Director of the Aoki Center for Critical Race and Nation Studies to foster multi-disciplinary scholarship and practice that critically examine the law through the lens of race, ethnicity, indigeneity, citizenship, and class. Aldana has received numerous awards including the American Bar Association  Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award, the UC Davis Chancellor’s Achievement Award for Diversity and Community and the UC Davis Office of Research and Policy for Equity Ubuntu Award for Inspiring Social Change. In 2019, Aldana was selected as an inaugural fellow of the Hispanic Association Colleges and Universities’ Academia de Liderazgo. She is an elected member of the American Law Institute (ALI), widely considered the nation's preeminent law reform organization. Aldana is also a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and previously served as the co-president of the Society of American Law Teachers. In 2022, she was selected as a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Mistress of Ceremonies: Andrea Flores

Andrea Flores is an Emmy-winning journalist who anchors the KCRA 3 News at 10 p.m. in Sacramento. She has also helped produce documentaries for KCRA on the immigration crisis at the U.S./Mexico border and the legalization of lowriders and cruising in California. Andrea is a proud alumna from the University of California, Davis where she graduated with a degree in communication and Spanish. She is a first-generation college graduate. Originally from Southern California, Andrea is happy to be back in Northern California.

Workshop Descriptions

Highly recommended workshops for middle school students, high school students, and community college students will be color-coded. Scroll down to workshop schedule grid to see all the sessions laid out.

View a list of workshops designed specifically for students planning to enroll in or transfer from community college.

Click on building names to access the online campus map. Back to Top

Teaching and Learning Complex (TLC)

College Link: Preparing for Success in Community College (TLC 1215)

Listen to an overview of resources and strategies to be successful at a CA community college (CCC). Learn about the higher education system, degree and certificate options, and transfer requirements.

Universidad: Hazlo realidad (TLC 2218)

Escuche una descripción general de las opciones de carreras y aprenda porque las buenas calificaciones en la escuela secundaria y preparatoria son fundamentales para la preparación universitaria. Exploraremos los cuatro sistemas de educación superior en California — Universidad de California (UC), Universidad Estatal de California (CSU), Colegios comunitarios de California (CCC) y universidades privadas y proporcionaremos una visión general de los requisitos de admisión para cada uno.

Admisiones Universitarias 101: Cómo ser un Candidato Competitivo (TLC 1212)

Explora los cuatro sistemas de educación superior en California - Universidad de California (UC), Universidad Estatal de California (CSU), Colegios comunitarios de California (CCC) y universidades privadas y sus requisitos de admisión. También escucharemos ejemplos de solicitantes preparados y revisaremos los requisitos de admisión “A-G” para los sistemas UC y CSU.

College Admission 101: Becoming a Competitive Applicant (TLC 1010)

Explore the four higher education systems in California — University of California (UC), California State University (CSU), California Community Colleges, and private schools — and their admission requirements. You will also hear examples of well-rounded applicants and review “A-G’’ admission requirements for the UC and CSU systems.

Building Your First Budget (TLC 1214)

A well-designed budget is the best way for you to reach your goals and achieve financial independence without having to sacrifice all of life’s pleasures. Budgeting means analyzing the income you have coming in, and then developing a reasonable plan for what goes out. Essentially, a budget is a tool to make the most out of your money. With it, you will be able to identify, and eliminate wasteful spending, while keeping and even adding to those expenses that are truly important to you.

Navigating your Career Journey (TLC 3215)

"What are you going to do when you grow up?” Do you struggle to answer this question? This workshop will cover strategies to help you clarify your values, interests, skills, and personality to identify the potential careers best suited for you. Career planning is a life-long process and this workshop will help you begin your career development journey on the right foot.

Pathways to Becoming a Medical Doctor (TLC 2010)

Get information on how to become a doctor with Dr. García. The presenter will share experiences, offer advice, and address questions on how to become a doctor.

Pathways to the Nursing Profession (TLC 3211)  

Nursing: Get information about nursing careers from UC Davis nurses, and the Sacramento Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. The presenters will share their experiences, answer your questions, and offer advice on becoming a nurse.

Financial Aid - Start to Finish (TLC 1010)

In this presentation, offered by the California Student Aid Commission, students and parents will learn about the types and sources of financial aid, how to apply for aid, how to keep aid once it is awarded, and what it can be spent on.

Financial Aid and You — Ayuda Financiera y Usted (TLC 2218)

Wondering how you can pay for college? Join us to discuss financial aid tips and tricks to illustrate how college is feasible for everyone.

Women as Role Models (TLC 3213)

Together we will empower and support our next generation of women to become leaders in education, government, health, justice/law enforcement, community services and more.

You can be a Lawyer! Si se Puede! (TLC 3210)

If you are fascinated by legal shows on television or have been told you should be a lawyer because you like to argue, consider a career in law. A law degree can be rewarding, empowering, and opens doors to a variety of careers beyond the legal profession. Join us for a discussion on law school and the career opportunities it provides.

Learn to Learn (TLC 1218)

Get tips on improving your school performance and how to succeed in the educational system from an experienced educator.

La Cultura Cura: Introduction to the Aztec Calendar (TLC 1218)

Develop an understanding of the calendar system used by Aztecs and pre-Columbian peoples of Central Mexico. You will learn how to read the calendar, and how our ancestors introduced science and math to the world.

Our Journey as Veterinary Professionals (TLC 1215)  

The UC Davis Chapter of Latinx Veterinary Medical Association (LVMA) aims to increase the visibility of current Latinx veterinary professionals and inspire more students to become veterinarians. LVMA is a community of Latinx excellence in veterinary medicine that advocates on behalf of Latinx veterinary professionals and Latinx clients, by addressing language and cultural barriers that impact client education and patient care.

Life Legacy and Values of César Chávez (TLC 1218)

Come learn about the life experiences and values of César Chávez, and the legacy he left behind.

Engineering a Brighter Future (TLC 3210)

Cultivating a diverse engineering workforce is essential to solving big world problems. Learn about opportunities in engineering and why this in-demand field needs your talent.

Environmental Justice 101 – How Communities of Color Can Make a Difference! (TLC 2215)

Environmental racism happens in some of the poorest communities where people of color live and work. Learn how students and residents throughout California can engage in creating awareness to build healthier neighborhoods by fighting high concentrations of pollution through the transformative experience of community organizing.

Overview of UC System (TLC 2218)

The University of California is the world's leading public research university system with 10 campuses and five medical centers. Thinking about which University of California campus — or campuses — to apply to can be an exciting, thought-provoking, and possibly intimidating process. Join us to explore your options and reflect on what you're looking for academically, socially and geographically.

CalKIDS: The First Step Toward College (TLC 3218)

Future College Grads! California has your back when it comes to dreaming big. With CalKIDS, you’re already on your way to funding college or career training after high school. For low-income public-school students, score a CalKIDS account with up to $1,500 free money to get you started! There’s no extra work needed with automatic enrollments.

Navigating Teacher Credentialing Programs: A Workshop for Bilingual Educators (TLC 1215)

This interactive workshop is designed for future bilingual teachers who are looking to deepen their understanding of teacher credentialing program requirements and the steps involved in becoming a teacher. We will explore the pathways to becoming credentialed teachers with a bilingual authorization, admission requirements, subject matter competency (SMC), how to navigate the application process and how to pay for all of it.

Becoming a K-12 Teacher (TLC 3212)

Explore pathways to becoming a STEM teacher.

Law School for Transfer Students (TLC 3212)

Thinking About Law School? Start Here. Join us for an inspiring and informative workshop led by the former Dean of UC Davis School of Law! Led by the former Dean of the UC Davis School of Law, this workshop will provide students who are attending or plan to attend a California Community College information about the pathways to law school. You’ll gain valuable insights into the law school journey, learn about the different pathways available, and get expert advice on how to start preparing now for a future in law.

Medical School for Transfer Students (TLC 3214)

Dreaming of a Career in Medicine? Let’s Talk Pathways! Join us for an interactive workshop led by a member of the UC Davis School of Medicine, designed especially for students currently attending—or planning to attend—a California Community College. This session will walk you through the steps to medical school or related health profession. Come get inspired, ask questions, and take the next step toward your future in medicine!

Activities and Recreation Center (ARC)

College Make it Happen (ARC Ballrooms A & B)

Listen to an overview of career options and learn why good grades in middle school, and high school, are critical for college preparation. We will explore the four higher education systems in California — University of California (UC), California State University (CSU), California Community Colleges, and private schools — and provide an overview of admission requirements for each.

A Day in the Life of an Aggie! (ARC Ballroom B)

Ask us anything! Our Student Outreach Ambassadors are here to answer your questions about their student experience and life at UCD.

Introduction to Enrolling in a California Community College (ARC Meeting Room 1)

Steps to enrolling in California Community College. If you’re considering attending a community college, join us to learn more about how the system works and what to expect.

Walker Hall

California State University Presentation (Walker Hall 1320)

Learn more about the CSU freshmen and transfer admissions, the application process, financial aid resources, timelines, and test requirements. Also learn about special programs available to you like EOP (low-income) and College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) for families from migrant/agricultural backgrounds.

Bainer Hall

Fulfilling Careers in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology (Bainer 1060)

To know nature is to know one's self; and to protect nature is to preserve our future. Few are aware that talented students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) can pursue lucrative and fulfilling careers. We will provide a summary of the educational options and career pathways, the different types of jobs and employing organizations, and the compensation, benefits, and personal fulfillment that can be associated with a variety of careers focused on the science and conservation of fish, wildlife, and their diverse habitats.

Workshop Schedule Grid

Click the workshop title to jump to details and location. Back to Top

Community and College Resource Fair Exhibitors

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Campus Map

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University Credit Union Center (U-Center)	Activities and Recreation Center (ARC)
Teaching and Learning Complex (TLC)	Walker Hall
Bainer Hall	Pavilion Parking Structure

Partnerships and Sponsorships

Parking

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Parking is FREE all day!

General Parking recommended at Pavilion Parking Structure

🚌 Bus Parking at Lot 30
Bus drop-off and pick-up instructions

VIP Parking at Lot 25

Committee & Contributors

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to the students, staff, faculty, volunteers, and community partners who made this conference possible. Your dedication and support continue to make a lasting impact.

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About

The César Chávez Youth Leadership Conference and Celebration is a free college and career motivational event for junior high, high school and community college students, as well as parents and community members.  The goal of this annual conference is to introduce the value of attending college - particularly to individuals who may not be considering higher education due to lack of information or financial resources. 

Each year, the conference delivers an engaging program that:

• Nurtures the concept that all individuals are leaders;
• Provides information on the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) admission requirements;
• Provides information on the California Community College (CCC) matriculation and enrollment process; and
• Introduces college success resources and career workforce opportunities in STEM in the public and the private sector.

This free conference averages over 1800 attendees each year, from predominantly low-income and underrepresented backgrounds. Attendees leave empowered, believing they can achieve their goals and knowing the resources available to them to do so.

FAQ

• Do I have to pre-register or are walk-ins allowed?
• We recommend that everyone pre-register for the event. Entrance by walk-ins, and those who didn’t register before May 1, will only be allowed and it is subject to available space.
• Which of my students I should I invite?
• We ask that you extend this invitation to all of your students, regardless of their academic standing. Our goal is to ensure that communities that are currently underrepresented in our higher education system, such as men of color and people from the LGBTQ community, have access to any of our California colleges, which include community colleges, California State Universities, Universities of California and Private institutions.