Norco College’s annual Equity Summit brought the campus community together for a powerful three-part series exploring storytelling, self-reflection, and collective transformation. This year’s Summit invited students, faculty, staff, and administrators to connect through shared experiences and discover the stories that shape identity, belonging, and purpose.
Day 1: Storytelling – “What’s Your Story?”
The Summit opened with an inspiring session led by Ruben E. Canedo, Director of Strategic Equity Initiatives at the University of California, Berkeley, and Co-Director of Education & Training for the UC Essential Needs Consortium. Canedo invited participants to explore the narratives that define who they are and how they show up in the world. Attendees gathered in their elemental corners—earth, air, fire, and water—to reflect on their personal and collective journeys. Each group created colorful posters representing their values, challenges, and hopes for the Norco College community. The day concluded with heartfelt presentations that highlighted the unifying and transformative power of storytelling.
Day 2: Feed Your Soul
The second day invited participants to continue the storytelling journey through self-care
and mindfulness. Avisha Chugani, Counselor for EOPS at Pasadena City College and Founder
of Soul Care, led a calming and introspective session titled “Feed Your Soul,” emphasizing
the importance of pausing, breathing, and reconnecting with oneself. Surrounded by
meditative music and the soothing scent of sage and palo santo, attendees engaged
in meaningful pair-sharing activities that deepened connection and empathy. The session
reminded everyone that nurturing the self is an essential act of equity and empowerment.
Day 3: Be the Difference
The final day, themed “Be the Difference,” focused on storytelling through art as
a catalyst for social change. Renowned artist Hugo Crosthwaite captivated the audience
with a presentation of his dynamic work, including a mural installation composed of
fragmented narratives exploring immigration, education, and resilience. His stories
illustrated how art can bridge divides and amplify the voices of underrepresented
people.
To conclude the series, Ruben E. Canedo returned to lead a reflective journaling activity centered on the idea that “the relationship you have with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you’re in.” Participants closed the Summit in a collective circle, sharing their insights and personal commitments to continue advancing equity in their communities.
Through three days of reflection, storytelling, and creative expression, the Equity Summit reaffirmed Norco College’s commitment to fostering belonging, understanding, and transformation across campus.