MSJC Student Leaders Advocate for Community College Students in D.C.

Student government representatives from Mt. San Jacinto College traveled to the nation's capital to participate in the inaugural Federal Advocacy Academy.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 7:42am

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Student leaders from Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the inaugural Federal Advocacy Academy, organized by the Student Senate for California Community Colleges. They joined peers from across the state to advocate for community college students at the national level, engaging in workshops and meeting with congressional staff.

Why it matters

The academy provided MSJC student leaders with hands-on experience in civic engagement and public policy, reinforcing the college's commitment to preparing students not only for academic and career success but also for informed participation in democratic processes.

The details

The academy brought together student government representatives from California community colleges to learn about federal policymaking and to elevate student perspectives on key issues, including educational equity, basic needs, financial aid, and access to higher education. Participants engaged in a series of workshops, including Advocacy 101, Differences Between Federal and State Advocacy, Storytelling for Policy Impact, and sessions examining federal policies affecting financial aid and student support services.

  • The academy took place in Washington, D.C. in March 2026.

The players

Serenity Siler

Menifee Valley Campus senator and UMOJA president at MSJC.

Corey Tatum

Menifee Valley Campus senator and A2MEND president at MSJC.

Lamari Oliver

Temecula Valley Campus senator at MSJC.

Geneva Davisson

Temecula Valley Campus senator at MSJC.

Claudia Walukouw

MSJC student trustee.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to go to Washington, D.C., so I could take my advocacy to the next level. D.C. allowed me to get opportunities such as talking with representatives and networking with other colleges. I think it's a great opportunity for students to learn about what is going on in our economy and how our voices can make a change. It was a very fun experience overall, and I really hope that other people can experience the same thing.”

— Serenity Siler, Menifee Valley Campus senator and UMOJA president

“I wanted to go to Washington, D.C., so I can start my first advocacy as a community college student. This trip gave me the experience and ability to talk to people who make the real changes that matter in our community and country. I learned about the power of our voices and the power of connection to one another. D.C. wasn't only fun but educational, and all students should try to attend if given the opportunity.”

— Lamari Oliver, Temecula Valley Campus senator

“My experience in Washington, D.C., introduced me to many other community college student government officers. I had the opportunity to create realistic goals at the community college level and learned how federal decisions impact students. Not only was D.C. educational, but I also got 26,000 steps in one day, loads of pizza, and enjoyed the sightseeing.”

— Geneva Davisson, Temecula Valley Campus senator

What’s next

The MSJC student leaders plan to continue advocating for community college students at the state and local levels, using the skills and connections they gained from the Federal Advocacy Academy.

The takeaway

The MSJC student leaders' participation in the Federal Advocacy Academy demonstrates the importance of empowering community college students to engage in the political process and advocate for their needs at the national level, ensuring their voices are heard in policy discussions that impact their education and future.