Students Attend College Expo to Explore Higher Education Opportunities
Students from Moreno Valley College (MVC), along with classified professionals, attended the College Expo sponsored by Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) and the National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) at the Riverside Convention Center on Jan. 31. The event allowed students to connect with representatives from more than 30 colleges, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Latino-serving institutions, to explore academic programs, transfer pathways, and scholarship opportunities.
The Expo, held from 9 am to noon, offered attendees on-the-spot admissions and scholarships and waived application fees. The MVC Outreach team was also present, providing informational resources to approximately 320 participants. As another pathway to higher education, MVC offers several transfer opportunities, including options for HBCUs. Organized by NCRF and GIA, the event played a critical role in expanding college access and awareness for students in the Inland Empire.
NCRF, which began serving historically underserved students in 1999, was established in response to California Proposition 209, which banned affirmative action policies at state colleges. This legislative change disrupted college admissions opportunities for many students, prompting NCRF to take action. On Feb. 26, 2000, the foundation hosted the First Annual Black College Expo™, an event aimed at connecting students with HBCUs and other postsecondary institutions to provide admissions and scholarship information.
GIA, a regional K-16 collaborative, focuses on advancing educational and economic equity in the Inland Empire. By engaging a cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business institutions, GIA works toward a shared vision of educational and economic success in the region.
MVC students who attended the Expo gained valuable insights into their higher education options and the resources available to help them achieve their academic and professional goals. The event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting student success and fostering equitable access to higher education.