San Diego Mesa College to Celebrate Grand Opening of New Affinity and Student Support Spaces

SAN DIEGO, CA – San Diego Mesa College will celebrate the grand opening of its newly developed CommUnity Spaces—student-centered support and affinity spaces designed to enhance engagement, learning, and a sense of belonging on campus—on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in Room I4-202. 

 

The event, officially titled the Mesa College New Affinity Spaces Grand Opening, will include student performances, guest speakers, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and open house-style tours of six newly dedicated spaces that support student achievement through equity, cultural identity, and community connection. 

 

Dr. Ashanti Hands, President of Mesa College, will offer opening remarks, followed by reflections from Vice President of Student Services Larry Maxey, as well as student voices sharing their lived experiences and the impact of these support programs. Student speakers will include Paula Cantu (Neuroscience), Brian Huynh (Mesa alum, Asian American Studies & Film), and Celia Payan (Business Administration). 

"These spaces are a powerful expression of Mesa College’s deep commitment to equity and student success,” said Dr. Ashanti Hands, Mesa College President. “They serve as daily reminders to our students that they are seen, that they belong here, and that who they are—and who they’re becoming—matters. In these spaces, their aspirations are met with unwavering support every step of the way."

 

Spaces Featured at the Grand Opening Include: 

• KUP Unity Village (I4-201) – A hub for Kapwa, Umoja, and Puente students to gather, explore cultural identity, and foster belonging.

• Dreamer Resource Center (I4-207) – A safe space supporting undocumented students and allies through academic, legal immigration services , and personal services.
• CalWORKs Office (I4-208) – Empowering student parents receiving public assistance with resources and counseling.
• Promise Program Office (I4-410) – Supporting first-time college students with free tuition, mentorship, and academic guidance.
• Rising Scholars Office (I4-204) – Providing community and resources for students affected by the justice system.
• Family Resource Center (LRC 113) – A welcoming learning space for student parents, with study areas, childcare support, and parenting workshops.
   

Event Schedule Highlights: 

• 10:00 a.m.
  Performance by Mesa Student, Angel René Wilson
  10:05 a.m.
  Welcome by Dr. Ashanti Hands, President
  10:10 a.m.
   Larry Maxey, Vice President of Student Services
  10:15 a.m.  
  Student Voices
  10:25 a.m.
  Remarks and Transition
  10:35 a.m.
  Ribbon Cutting | outside of I4-201
  10:45 a.m. 
  CommUnity spaces tours 
   

Students like Diondria Harrison speak to the transformative role these programs play: 

“CalWORKs has been a true blessing in my life. As a single parent, their support helped me push through some of my hardest seasons and stay focused on my goals.” 

“Rising Scholars reminded me that I still belong — that my past doesn't define my future.” 

 

Another student, Ariana Hernandez, adds: 

"The Promise Program has been incredibly helpful throughout my college journey. Being a Promise student is a constant reminder that I not only belong in college, but that I can succeed in college." 

 

Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to explore each of the new spaces and learn more about the services available. Students who visit all locations will be eligible to enter an opportunity drawing. 

 

For more information, contact the San Diego Mesa College Office of Communications at 619-388-2976 or apulido@sdccd.edu.

 

About San Diego Mesa College 

Tags: KUP, Press Release, Promise Program, CalWORKS, Rising Scholars, Family Resource Center, In The News, Dreamer Resource Center, Grand Opening