Riverside City College Hosts Keynote on Culturally Responsive Education Featuring Bettina L. Love, Ph.D.

Riverside City College hosted an inspiring keynote event, “Love, Joy, Creativity & the Brain: The Heart of Culturally Responsive Education,” featuring New York Times bestselling author Bettina L. Love, Ph.D. Presented by Lorena J. Newson, Ed.D., Dean of The Office of College Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement as part of the college’s observance of Celebrating Women’s HERstory Month 2026, the program invited students, faculty and community members to explore how love, joy and creativity shape meaningful learning environments where students feel seen, valued and supported.

The event created space for reflection on the importance of culturally responsive education and the role it plays in fostering belonging across campus. Through her keynote, Love emphasized that education rooted in humanity, affirmation and authentic care can help disrupt traditional barriers and create conditions where all learners have the opportunity to thrive.

Newson, reflected on the significance of bringing Love to RCC. “Bringing Love to our campus reinforces the work we are doing to create spaces where students feel affirmed, supported and empowered to succeed. When joy, creativity and care are centered in education, we strengthen students’ confidence and deepen their connection to learning.”

As the event moved into dialogue and reflection, mental health emerged as a central theme. Students and staff discussed how emotional well-being influences academic engagement and how culturally affirming spaces can help students feel more connected, especially during times of stress or isolation.

Monique Greene Associate Professor of Counseling and Faculty Development Coordinator, highlighted this connection. “This event reminded us that mental health and learning are deeply interconnected. When students experience joy, safety and cultural affirmation, they are more willing to engage, take risks and believe in their own potential.”

The program also underscored the importance of institutional collaboration in supporting student success. Leaders across RCC emphasized that creating spaces where students feel valued is a shared responsibility that strengthens the entire campus community.

Herbert English, Dean of Counseling & Special Funded Programs, spoke to this collective effort. “Events like this demonstrate the power of collaboration across our institution. When we invest in programs that honor students’ identities and experiences, we strengthen not only their educational journey but the entire RCC community.”

By centering connection, belonging and culturally grounded care, the event reflected RCC’s ongoing commitment to nurturing learning environments rooted in humanity, affirmation and collective growth.

Note: Student produced article by Sha-phan Welsh, edited and approved by Jessica Vierra, public affairs officer.