Academic Success and Equity (ASE) Programs intentionally center communities that have been historically marginalized in traditional higher education settings: students who are Black & African-American, Latinx & Chicanx, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander, Undocumented, DACAmented, mixed status, former foster youth, formerly incarcerated, justice/system impacted, and LGBTQIA+ students. The intersectional identities & cross-cultural experiences of ASE students are honored through mentorship, tailored resources, and culturally sustaining pedagogies that reflect an institutional commitment to student academic achievement. By providing academic and holistic support, the ASE Programs not only increase retention and completion, they foster inclusion and, as Beverly Daniel Tatum writes, “affirm identity, build community, and cultivate leadership.” In solidarity and unity, ASE Program students, staff, faculty, and administrators hold histories and heritage close, while leveraging a platform for future generations of leaders and advocates.
ASE Programs Brochure
Download the ASE Programs Brochure (coming soon!)
ASE Programs
- PUENTE Project
The mission is to increase the number of Mexican American/Latino students transferring to four-year colleges and universities. PUENTE is open to all students. - Umoja(a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is committed to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences and increasing the persistence, retention, and transfer rates of African American and other students.
- Resources & Assistance for Former Foster Youth (RAFFY)
An innovative and powerful counseling program that provides specialized support services for former foster youth. - Mana
(a concept, drawn from the cultures of Melanesia and Polynesia, describing a powerful miraculous force) is a program that builds a community among Pacific Islander students, offering specialized support and guidance toward educational goals. - Undocumented People Rise in Solidarity and Empowerment (UPRISE)
UPRISE is a collaboration between California State University San Marcos and MiraCosta Community College to bolster academic success, enhance professional opportunities, improve personal wellness, strengthen institutional support, and increase allies for undocumented students and their families in North County San Diego. UPRISE offers free services to students and loved ones. - Transitions Program
The MiraCosta College Transitions Program provides support for people impacted by incarceration. Students are given access to financial, academic, and psychological resources to achieve personal and educational goals. - SPHERE
Students' Pride in Honoring our Existence through Resistance and Empowerment (SPHERE) Program is designed to guide LGBTQIA+ students and allies to reach their academic, career, and personal goals while embracing one's identity and building community at MiraCosta College.
ASE Program Benefits
- Free textbooks for all ASE classes
- Direct access to a dedicated academic counselor
- Free conferences and leadership opportunities
- Free university trips
- Culturally relevant programming and celebrations
- Focused financial aid & scholarship support
- Academic Success & Equity (ASE) programs offer professional development workshops and promote a career and life planning course open to all ASE students. These curricular and co-curricular offerings help students make effective decisions regarding their career and life choices, increasing their employability.
Contact Information
Cindy Arce
she/her
Program Manager, Academic Success and Equity (ASE) Programs
760.757.2121 x6276
carce@miracosta.edu
Hablo Español
Gabby Lupola
she/her
Interim Coordinator, Academic Success and Equity (ASE) Programs
760.757.2121 x6900
glupola@miracosta.edu
Gregorio Reyes
he/him
Interim Coordinator, Academic Success and Equity (ASE) Programs
760.757.2121 x6973
greyes@miracosta.edu
Hablo Español
Academic Success & Equity (ASE) Programs are a service of the Department of Student Equity. For general inquiries about all Student Equity programs and services, please contact us at studentequity@miracosta.edu or call our main office at 760.757.2121 x6900.
