RCC Celebrates National Student Parent Month with Events and Workshops

Riverside City College (RCC) honored National Student Parent Month throughout September with a series of events that recognized and supported the unique experiences of parenting students. The celebrations highlighted RCC’s commitment to fostering an inclusive campus community and ensuring that student parents have the tools and resources needed for success.

The RCC Student Parent Club led the monthlong effort, beginning with two interactive workshops facilitated by Brittani Delgado of SoCal Youth United. On September 3, Delgado presented strategies to balance academics and parenting responsibilities, such as engaging children with age-appropriate tactile activities or involving them in household chores while parents study. On September 17, the “Self-Care is Not Selfish” workshop introduced parents to practical tools for maintaining wellness, including breathing techniques, simple healthy recipes, and positive daily habits.

On September 24, in partnership with Outreach and Student Equity, the club hosted its second annual Bring Your Kids to College Day. The family-friendly event brought together RCC resource centers, campus clubs, and community partners for activities designed to create a welcoming environment for children while connecting parents to valuable support networks. To further meet student needs, RCC’s Basic Needs Resource Center also extended its hours that day.

The month concluded on September 25 with the Student-Parent Equity Hour, where student parents Kalisha Gomez, Mauricio “Mo” Guzman, Alana Coletta, and Zaf Triggs courageously shared their lived experiences. The panel shed light on the challenges of balancing academics, work, and parenting, while also offering recommendations to better support RCC’s student parents—such as establishing a dedicated Student Parent Resource Center and providing access to a financial aid specialist.

“These events affirmed what we already know—when we support student parents, we are truly supporting two generations at once,” said organizers. “Our student parents inspire us with their resilience, and we are committed to ensuring they have the resources to thrive at RCC.”