Laney College's CalWORKs Program Takes its Case to Sacramento
Four years ago, thanks to the generous support from Blue Shield of California, the CalWORKs Association embarked on a journey to enhance the support and empowerment of our CalWORKs students.
Through a comprehensive research initiative conducted by the Center for the Study of Social Policy, we delved deep into the challenges faced by our students, shedding light on the administrative burdens within counties and colleges across California. Additionally, we developed an empowering curriculum aimed at equipping our CalWORKs students with the agency and knowledge to advocate for themselves in any intimidating space.
The Laney CalWORKs office was personally invited to share our students' inspiring stories with the California Senate budget sub-committee. This esteemed committee is responsible for making final recommendations to the governor regarding allocating CalWORKs state funds to all 58 counties. In a powerful bottom-up approach, two of our outstanding Laney SPARC students, Joy Perrin and Carniece Woodson, had the incredible opportunity to speak directly to our senators. Joy eloquently conveyed the life-changing support that CalWORKs has provided for her and her family, while Carniece bravely shared her experiences as a victim of EBT theft on three separate occasions. This momentous achievement is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our Oakland and Laney College student workers.
Laney Graduate among PAAAA 2024 Scholarship Recipients
Laney graduate Damien Pope, Jr. was among those in Peralta receiving a scholarship from the Peralta Association of African American Affairs Scholarship. Each scholar was honored at both the PAAAA Scholarship Reception as well as the African-American Graduation event, with Mr. Pope delivering a stirring address during the latter.
Congratulations to Mr. Pope (pictured third from right) and all of our PAAAA scholarship awardees, each of whom has amazing futures that await them.
Communicating, Connecting, Reflecting Event
On April 9th, some 30 Laney students from across the campus shared personal narratives about their lives and academic journeys in the “Communicating, Connecting, Reflecting” event.
At the May 2nd event, “What’s Next? Planning for the Future," 22 students discussed their future transfer and career plans and goals.
Audiences for both events included students' friends and family, faculty members, and other students.
The goal of the Laney Student Storytellers events is to promote understanding, inclusion, and equity by allowing students and other members of the Laney Community to share life experiences.
ESOL Activities Bring Students, Campus Together
The English for Speakers of Other Languages – in cooperation with the ¡Adelante! Program held Conversation Thursdays in Spring 2024 that offered students the perfect opportunity to practice speaking English in a relaxed and supportive environment with fellow language enthusiasts.
Whether it was practicing pronunciation, perfecting grammar, or just looking for some good conversation, these events offered students an opportunity to enhance their English while connecting with the College and Community. Thanks to the faculty and staff who supported these sessions during the semester.
Laney's Oakland City Chorus Provides Performance in Buddhist Traditions
The public had the opportunity to immerse itself in the ethereal melodies of Ancient Buddhist Prayer, Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda, Lenten Motets, and more at its May 21 performance. It also featured the enchanting tenor Arie Perry and the virtuoso pianist Dale Tsang.
Many thanks to our Music Faculty, under the leadership of Department Chair John Reagor and Dean of Liberal Arts Besth Maher.
Free Immigration Services Information Sessions
The Undocumented Community Resource Center offered a free immigration services session on May 14th from 10:00 am - 11:00 am.
The Undocumented Community Resource Center (UCRC) – located on the second floor of the Laney Tower, is a dedicated safe space for undocumented students, students from mixed-status families, and allies.
The UCRC can assist with issues including AB-540/ CA Residence Questionnaire, the California Dream Act, and connecting to immigration services.
The Center also provides information and resources on scholarships, clubs, food pantry, and community resources. For more information, please call the center at (510) 464-3126.
Former Laney Student Government President Admitted to UCLA as Graduate Student
2022-23 Laney Graduate Omolola Atolagbe shared back the news that she has been accepted as a Fall admit to the University of California, Los Angeles (Meyer and Renee Luskin School of Public Affairs) as a Master of Public Policy student. She is excited for the opportunity and will pay it forward by sharing her own knowledge with fellow students from different professional backgrounds “to solve real-world problems.”
Ms. Atolagbe credits Laney College, as it helped “sharpened my problem-solving skills as I had the opportunity to serve as the student body president (2022-2023). Learning from my esteemed professors in the Media Communications Department, especially Professor Marla Leech, and receiving support from Laney College made my educational and leadership journey easier. My special appreciation goes to the Laney College president, Dr. Rudy Besikof. I also thank Ms. Arlene Lontoc and other Laney College leaders: Dr. Marlon Hall, Dr. Davita Del Rosario, Dr. Becky Opsata, Dr. Leslie Blackie, and Ms. Hope Lane for their unwavering support during my service at Associated Students of Laney College.”
Laney wishes her the best of success in the next part of her journey.
This article is taken from the President’s Report, written by Dr. Rudy Besikof, Laney College President, that was presented to the PCCD Board of Trustees during their regular meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. To view it as a PDF, click here.