The Equity Center

The Santa Barbara Building is a vibrant student hub at Cerritos College, housing important student services and providing welcoming spaces, including:

  • Equity Center
    • LGBTQ+
    • UndocuFalcon Scholars
    • Justice Scholars
  • CalWORKs
  • International Student Services
  • Study Abroad

Our core mission is to promote social and academic justice by fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among all students. Through culturally responsive advocacy, student-centered services, and inclusive programming, these programs create a supportive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive both personally and academically. Whether it’s through peer support, educational workshops, or access to vital resources, the center empowers students to succeed and embrace their unique identities.

Services

The Santa Barbara Building offers a range of dedicated programs and spaces designed to support the diverse needs of our student community. Each service aims to create a welcoming and empowering environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

The Equity Center:

The Equity Center at Cerritos College is a vibrant and welcoming hub located in the Santa Barbara Building, home to a community of programs united by a shared commitment to student success and belonging. Whether you're an international student navigating F-1 requirements, a student exploring opportunities through Study Abroad, a CalWORKs participant balancing work and education, a member of our LGBTQ+ community, an undocumented or DACA student supported through UndocuFalcon Scholars, or a student engaged with Justice Scholars, you'll find a space here where you are seen, valued, and supported.

The Equity Center fosters a culture rooted in inclusion, respect, empowerment, and community care. It functions as more than just a physical space it’s a home base for students who often find themselves navigating multiple challenges related to identity, access, or systemic inequities.

Students are encouraged to show up as their full selves, knowing they will be met with understanding and affirmation. The staff at the Equity Center are not only advocates but also active mentors and allies who help students navigate their educational journeys. The center frequently incorporates art, storytelling, activism, and culturally relevant programming to create an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

Living Learning Center:

Situated adjacent to the Equity Center, the Living Learning Center serves as an extended hub for student collaboration and engagement. Designed to foster collaboration, academic growth, and student-led learning in an inclusive, community-oriented space, the LLC offers a welcoming environment where students can study, connect, and thrive both academically and socially.  The center regularly hosts tutoring sessions, peer mentoring, and cultural events that complement the Equity Center’s mission of inclusivity and empowerment.

Key Features & Offerings:

  • Collaborative Study Spaces: The LLC provides flexible seating, whiteboards, and group-friendly areas ideal for study sessions, tutoring, and project work. Students often use the space for exam prep, peer-to-peer academic support, or quiet reflection time.
  • Workshops & Meetings: The LLC regularly hosts workshops on topics like time management, resume writing, and financial literacy. It also serves as a meeting space for student organizations and equity based initiatives.
  • Resource Access: Students can access laptops, textbooks, calculators, and other academic materials. Many students benefit from this resource-sharing model, especially those who need support outside typical office hours.
  • Cultural & Community Events: The space is also used for affinity group gatherings, film screenings, open mics, and cultural celebrations. For example, during Latinx Heritage Month and Black History Month, the LLC hosts interactive events led by students in the Puente and Umoja programs.
  • Peer Support & Mentorship: Students often connect informally with mentors or peers in the LLC, creating organic support networks that enhance the college experience. Whether someone is looking for advice or just someone to talk to, the LLC helps build those meaningful connections.

Events and Activities

The various programs in the Santa Barbara Building host a variety of vibrant and inclusive events throughout the academic year designed to build community, empower students, and provide enriching experiences both on and off campus. These events create a welcoming environment where students can connect, learn, and grow.

  • Meet & Greets: At the start of each semester, students are invited to join informal meet-and-greet sessions where they can meet program staff and peers, ask questions, and learn about upcoming events. These sessions foster a welcoming atmosphere for new and returning students alike.
  • Gaming Hours: Weekly gaming sessions encourage students to unwind, bond, and build friendships in a relaxed, fun environment. These casual gatherings often feature popular multi-player games and provide snacks to keep the energy up.
  • Field Trips: Our programs provide unique educational opportunities beyond campus. For example, in October 2024, the LGBTQ+ Program participated in the Models of Pride Youth Summit at the LA LGBT Center, gaining exposure to national LGBTQ+ advocacy and leadership. Similarly, in April 2025, the UndocuFalcons Scholars Program Scholars attended the Empowering Leaders Symposium at Cal State Long Beach, focusing on leadership development and community activism for undocumented students. These experiences broaden students' perspectives and empower them to become change-makers.
  • Art & Allyship Workshops: Creative workshops are held regularly, offering students a chance to express their identities through art and engage in meaningful discussions about allyship and social justice. Past sessions have included mural painting, zine making, and storytelling circles.
  • Social Mixers: Seasonal social mixers provide fun, themed events where students can celebrate diverse identities, build friendships, and enjoy music, food, and performances. Examples include Pride Month celebrations, cultural heritage socials, and end-of-semester gatherings.
  • Snacks & Refreshments: Understanding the importance of nourishment, the Equity Center ensures all events provide snacks and refreshments, creating a warm and inviting space that encourages participation and community building.

 

Affiliated Programs/PArtnerships

Our program work in close collaboration with a range of affiliated programs designed to support student success, leadership, and identity development. These programs go beyond academics, they empower students to build community, access crucial resources, and grow as leaders.

 P.R.I.D.E. Scholars

The P.R.I.D.E. (Pursuing Respect, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity) Scholars Program is a dedicated support system for LGBTQ+ students at Cerritos College. It offers mentorship, academic guidance, and social events that create a strong sense of community and belonging. Through this program, students have access to specialized workshops, identity-affirming activities, and connections to external LGBTQ+ organizations. P.R.I.D.E. Scholars often take the lead in campus-wide awareness campaigns and participate in leadership conferences throughout the year.

UP Space

The UP Space is home to Umoja and Puente. The center which opened in Spring 2025 was created to provide a dedicated, culturally affirming environment that supports the success of Puente and Umoja students. Students can meet with counselors for academic, transfer, and personal guidance; connect with tutors; participate in skill‑building workshops; and access study materials and technology. It’s a space to learn, recharge, and get the support needed—all year round.

Partnerships