The Latine Leadership Network of CCC is a mutual support and advocacy organization committed to creating a space for sharing high impact practices addressing equity, diversity, and social justice issues faced by the Latinx community. We come together to harness collective experiences and foster inclusionary practices through cultural unity.
Thank you to all of the generous LLN Scholarship Donors who make these awards possible!
The Latine Leadership Network (LLN) has partnered with Modesto Junior College Foundation to ensure all donations go to scholarships and celebration of Latinx communities.
Currently, we are raising money for 2026-2027 Scholarships and our 2026 Annual Chicanx/ Latinx Graduation Celebration.
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 10am - 2 pm
Location: Great Valley Museum, West Campus
The Latine Leadership Network (LLN) at Modesto Junior College (MJC) proposes to host
a community cultural arts festival titled "A.R.T.E. -Arte, Raices, Tradiciones & Esperanza
(Fostering Hope with A.R.T- Art, Roots, Traditions)" on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
The event will bring together approximately 500 students, families, local artists,
and community members to celebrate the healing power of art, culture, and community
connection.
The LLN is a mutual support and advocacy organization that creates space for community
building, leadership development, and the sharing of practices that address equity,
diversity, and social justice issues impacting the Latinx
community. The proposed festival builds on this mission by providing a culturally
affirming environment where students and families can celebrate heritage, engage in
creative expression, and strengthen connections to community and cultural traditions.
The festival will highlight how artistic expression can support healing, identity
development, and cultural pride. Through interactive workshops, cultural performances,
and community dialogue, participants will explore the role that art, storytelling,
and creativity play in strengthening community and fostering a sense of belonging.
Core Components
The Career and Networking series was created to provide students access to powerful community members and be inspired by each speaker's journey to success. These unique opportunities spark motivation and ambition, allowing students the realization that their goals are within reach.
Rachel Hernandez is first-generation and was raised in Stanislaus County. In Junior
College, she joined the Freedom Forum where she was inspired by how civic engagement
and communication, or the lack of it, impacts communities. Rachel attended Stanislaus
State to earn her bachelors and masters during which she worked on federal, state,
and local campaigns.
For over 10 years, her career has focused on nonprofits. In 2020, she ran for city
council and won, serving 4 years. In 2024, she ran for Mayor and is now serving in
her second year as the youngest Mayor elected in Riverbank prioritizing connection
and communication.
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Time: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Location: East Campus Library & Learning Center
Yesenia is a Mexican first-generation scholar from Avenal, CA. She graduated with her bachelor's from UC Berkeley and holds a master's degree from Sacramento State. She is currently an Admin Specialist for the Behavioral and Social Science office. Simultaneously, Yesenia dedicates her weekends to Nopal, a non-profit in Stockton where she facilitates healing circles with youth. Her work ethic stems from the values of empathy, humility, and creation as the process for self-liberation inside and outside of institutional roles.
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Time: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Location: East Campus Library & Learning Center
The Student Success and Equity Committee and the Latine Leadership Network are proud to announce MJC’s 10th annual Chicanx/Latinx Graduation Celebration! This culturally meaningful bilingual (English/Spanish) event celebrates the accomplishments of students and their support system, which played an important role in their program completion.
We feel thrilled at the opportunity to celebrate you and your accomplishments on Tuesday, April 20, 2027, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the East Campus Performing Arts Center. Please RSVP by March 3, 2027 by completing the Interest Google Form.
This celebration is not meant to substitute MJC's Commencement, eligible students are highly encouraged to participate in the school's commencement.
Please contact Event Chair:
Olga Castaneda (209) 575-6807 or email castanedao@yosemite.edu
Comunidad Affinity Group Leadership
Chair: Ulises Ochoa Diaz
Chair: Alex De Jesus
MJC Latine Leadership Network
President: Olga Castanéda
Vice President: Claudia Ramirez
Secreatary: vacant
Treasurer: Aurelia González
Membership Chair: Alejandra Espinoza
Scholarship Chair: Jocelyne Lopez
