Riverside City College Hosts Successful HBCU Caravan, Connecting Hundreds of Students with Prestigious Universities
Riverside City College (RCC) proudly hosted the HBCU Caravan on Oct. 29, bringing representatives from 18 renowned Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to engage with students from across the Inland Empire. The event, held from 10 -2 p.m., provided an invaluable opportunity for students to explore higher education pathways and connect directly with admissions counselors from these distinguished institutions.
The Caravan attracted hundreds of students, including groups from Ramona High School, Moreno Valley College, Norco College, Victor Valley College, and other local high schools. RCC was honored to be one of just 11 colleges nationwide selected as a host site for this year’s Caravan.
Representatives from the following institutions participated in the event:
- Alabama State University
- Bowie State University
- Clark Atlanta University
- Coppin State University
- Dillard University
- Edward Waters University
- Fisk University
- Fort Valley State University
- Grambling State University
- Harris-Stowe State University
- Lane College
- Lincoln University
- Morehouse College
- Talladega College
- Texas Southern University
- Virginia State University
- Wiley College (University)
- Xavier University of Louisiana
“We were thrilled to host the HBCU Caravan and provide a platform where students could explore new opportunities and feel empowered about their futures,” said RCC President Dr. Claire Oliveros. “RCC is committed to closing equity gaps and fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, can thrive. Partnering with HBCUs aligns with our mission of expanding access to life-changing educational experiences.”
Throughout the event, students engaged in meaningful conversations about admissions requirements, financial aid, and campus life. Some attendees received on-the-spot admissions and scholarship offers, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and possibility.
“As a Black woman, seeing representation is not just about reflection—it's about possibility. When we see ourselves in positions of leadership and influence, it tells us and the next generation that we belong, that we are capable, and that our voices matter and events like this and colleges like the ones in the HBCU program are important,” said Dr. Kristi Woods, Vice President of Planning and Development.
Pictured from left to right: BFSA President Malika Bratton, Dean of Counseling and Special Programs Herbert English, VP of Planning and Development Dr. Kristi Woods, and Counselor Dr. Monique Greene.
“This event highlights the power of collaboration among educational institutions,” said Dean Herbert English. “By connecting our students with HBCUs, we reaffirm that access to higher education should be a right, not a privilege. Together, we are building bridges to opportunities that can uplift our entire community.”
The HBCU Caravan exemplifies RCC’s dedication to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and empowering them to pursue their academic and career goals. RCC’s continued focus on equity-driven initiatives ensures that every student receives the guidance, support, and opportunities needed to succeed.
“I learned so much today—it opened my eyes to opportunities I didn’t know existed,” shared a Ramona High School student who attended the event. “These colleges want us to succeed, and that really made an impact on me.”
Riverside City College extends its gratitude to the HBCU representatives, students, faculty, and staff who made the event a success. RCC looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to foster partnerships that empower students and transform communities.
For more information about future events and partnerships, please visit www.rcc.edu.