2023 Texas TRIO 50th Anniversary Conference Program

“LEAVING OUR MARK”

TEXAS TRIO H Anniversary

TEXAS TRIO

50TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

February 18-22, 2023

plano, Texas

GOING FORWARD, UPWARD, ONWARD TOGETHER

TEXAS TRIO

H Anniversary MISSION STATEMENT Texas TRIO association

The Texas Association of TRIO Programs (TX-TRIO) is the representative body for TRIO professionals from colleges, universities and agencies that host federally-funded TRIO educational opportunity programs in the state of Texas. TX-TRIO is dedicated to advocating for the TRIO movement by creating opportunities for TRIO professionals and participants with professional development and support.

The mission is accomplished through the following: implementing educational training and outreach initiatives, developing state resources, empowering state leadership and involvement in political issues that impact TRIO programs, providing scholarship opportunities, optimizing opportunities to reinforce and increase proficiency in technology, and increasing effective communication and brand recognition that furthers public awareness of the needs of disadvantaged students enrolled in or aspiring to post-secondary education.

UPWARD BOUND TALENT SEARCH

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTERS

RONALD MCNAIR

POST-BACCALAUREATE ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM

UPWARD BOUND MATH/SCIENCE

VETERANS UPWARD BOUND

TEXAS TRIO H Anniversary

FROM TEXAS TRIO PRESIDENT FIDEL ZAPATA Welcome!

Greetings Texas TRIO Colleagues and Friends,

On behalf of the Texas TRIO Association, it is an honor and a privilege to welcome you to the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, and specifically Plano, Texas for our 50th Annual Conference and Celebration.

As we reach the fifty-year point of our association’s existence, we reflect on how we have left our mark on the TRIO movement. Our theme, “Leaving Our Mark, 50 Years in the Making,” shows that we have accomplished a great deal since our inception. As a state, we are a leader in the TRIO movement, regularly reaching our fair share goals, bringing one of the largest member delegations each year to Washington D.C. for the Policy Seminar, and making sure to preserve and recognize our history, champions, and legacy for the future.

Our goals though are not limited to what lies behind us, but what awaits us on the road ahead. We must go forward, upward, and onward together. In this fiscal year, TRIO programs in Texas numbered 299, the most ever in Texas, serving over 76,000 students annually. Our work must continue to ensure that each student can reach their goal of a higher education and a better future, for themselves, their family, and their community.

I hope that you enjoy yourselves at our 50th Annual Conference. Our Conference Committee has spent countless hours preparing one of the greatest opportunities of professional development and networking that I have been a part of. One of the highlights of attending a TRIO conference is learning from each other and I know that our continued growth in attendance not only benefits you as an attendee, but also every student you work with in your program.

Lastly, I want to thank Immediate Past-President Sands and his team for their hard work, dedication, and heartfelt desire to have a great conference here in Plano. This past year as your President has been a pleasure and I look forward to the future of Texas TRIO as it continues to be on the forefront of advocacy, development, and leadership in the TRIO movement.

Welcome!

FROM PAST TEXAS TRIO PRESIDENT D’ANGELO SANDS

Dear Texas TRIO Colleagues and Friends,

On behalf of the Texas TRIO Association, it is my honor to extend to you a warm welcome to our 50th Texas TRIO Association Annual Conference themed “50 Years in the Making: Leaving Our Mark Going Forward, Upward, Onward Together” in the city of Plano, Texas.

This conference marks 50 years of service and contribution to TRIO programs, professionals and students across our state. We celebrate the hard work done and the people who contributed to our success in developing leaders, advocating for our students and building better relationships with key stakeholders.

One of the benefits to being a part of the Texas TRIO community is the opportunity to connect and learn from each other. So, as you navigate the conference and attend sessions, I encourage you to be open to connecting with other TRIO professionals and sharing your expertise. Be open to lending your knowledge while in sessions and consider mentoring a TRIO professional.

I want to express my gratitude and say thank you to the conference chairs and committee members. Thank you for all your hard work and for being so selfless to ensure that we have a successful conference.

Thank you for being here and please enjoy the Texas TRIO Association’s 50th Annual Conference.

D’AngleoV. Sands

Sincerely,

TEXAS TRIO H Anniversary

texas trio association

50 YEARS OF PAST PRESIDENTS

2021-2022: D’Angelo Sands

2020-2021: Ray Cordero

2019-2020: Nancy Zamora

2018-2019: Alfred Bacon

2017-2018: Tony Hall

2016-2017: Priselda Perez

2015-2016: Bradley Gifford

2014-2015: Randy Scott

2013-2014: Karen Dean

2012: Carol Hicks

2011-2012: Martin Lopez

2010-2011: Keylan Morgan

2009-2010: Karen Wilkerson

2008-2009: Jeff Kahlden

2007-2008: Darnisha Reed

2006-2007: April Malone-Day

2005-2006: Esmeralda Nandin

2004-2005: Doug Elrod

2003-2004: Ne’Shaun Robinson-James

2002-2003: Rita Cortez

2001-2002: Sandra Braham

2000-2001: Brenda Faulkner

1999-2000: Audrey Hawkins

1998-1999: Mary Gonzalez

1997-1998: Juan Vasquez

1996-1997: Dr. Patsy White

1995-1996: Mary Berry

1994-1995: Loyce Sinegal

1993-1994: Roger Scott

1992-1993: Kathy Rawlings Taylor

1991-1992: Ronnie Brooks

1990-1991: Eddie Anaya

1989-1990: Dr. Will Niklas

1988-1989: Ronnie Brooks

1987-1988: Eleanor Taylor

1986-1987: B. B. Robinson

1984-1986: Jacqueline Edwards

1983-1984: Judy Ritts

1982-1983: S. A. Anderson

1981-1982: Marshenell Ervin

1980-1981: Ernest People

1979-1980: Nick Cardenas

1978-1979: Maude Royal

1977-1978: Manuel Flores

1976-1977: Tommy Edwards

1975-1976: Oscar Hernandez

1974-1975: Alvin Wardlaw

1973-1974: Jean Manning

Abilene Christian University

Texas State University

North Central Texas College

The Parris Foundation

DCCCD - Mountain View College

Galveston College

Tyler Junior College

Abilene Christian University

University of North Texas

The University of Texas at El Paso

West Texas A&M University

Texas State University

Abilene Christian University

Weatherford College

Texas A&M University - Commerce

Lone Star College

Texas A&M University - Kingsville

University of North Texas

Southern Methodist University

The University of Texas at San Antonio

The University of Texas at El Paso

Tarleton State University

Trinity Valley Community College

Texas A&M University - Kingsville

Southwest Texas State University

McLennan Community College

Jarvis Christian College

Lamar University

West Texas A&M University

University of North Texas

East Texas State University

LEARN, Inc.

University of North Texas

East Texas State University

McLennan Community College

Bishop College

St. Mary’s University

University of Houston

East Texas Educational Opportunity

Texas College

Paul Quinn College

Bee County College

Houston Community College

San Antonio Union Junior College

Southern Methodist University

Project STAY, Inc.

Texas Southern University

Paul Quinn College

50th Annual trio conference

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AWARDS

25 Years

Jenny Watts

Bindy Tice

20 Years

Trichele Davenport

Trissi Johnson

Maria Vazquez

Julia Lewis

15 Years

Lisa Gallegos

10 Years

Jim Cockburn

Lola Coppage

Kraig Curry

Charles Purdy

Veronica Jones

D’Angelo Sands

Courtney Mai

Terri Williams

5 Years

Anthony Vazquez

Erika Zwahr

Elizabeth Vargas

Barbara Ramirez

Kristen Miller

Robin Hardin

Hannah Sutton

Xavier Martinez

Connie Cervantez

Abel Cerros

Keyerre Hayes

Jessica Nguyen

Andrea Brown

Brenton Flowers

Jennifer Decker

Chasity Munoz

Dana Parker

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

At-Large Fidel Zapata (President) and Valton Stinson (President-Elect)

Audio/Visual/IT Support

Brenton Flowers (Chair) and LaKisha Jackson (Co-Chair)

Community Service Project Abel Cerros (Chair), Phyliceia Brown (Co-Chair), Cassie Webb, and ______________________________ Courtney Mai

Entertainment & Hospitality

Exhibitors/Sponsors/Ads

Fundraising

Moderators/Evaluations

Newcomers

Public Relations/Social

Pre-Conference

Proposals & Workshops

Registration & Service Awards

TRIO Achievers Committee

VIP Team

Zoi Tucker (Chair), Jasmine Henry, Irasema Val encia, Veronica Amezquita, and Taylor Clemmons

Priselda Perez (Chair), Gabriela Zepeda, Olga Nava-Londoño, Irasema Valencia, and Lupe Garza

Rosa Kiveris (Chair)

Brittany Barnett (Chair), Jenny Torbert (Co-Chair), Lisa Thompson, Christi Barnes, Payton Green, and Dustin Nix

Valton Stinson (Chair), Gayla Herrington (Chair), and Randy Scott

Amber James (Chair), Jasmine Henry (Co-Chair), Lily Plascencia, Heather Herrera, and Melissa Martinez-Dominguez

Peggy Valdez (Chair)

Aqsa Cheema (Chair), Melissa Martinez-Dominguez (Co-Chair), Agnieszka Beavers, Sophie McTyre, and Hannah Davis Sutton

Lisa Gallegos (Chair), Christi Barnes, Kristen Miller, DeAnna Ashley-Lemon

Faby Rodriguez (Chair), Alex Ruiz (Co-Chair), Christi Barnes, Erika Lujan, and Connie Cervantez

Jeff Kahlden (Chair) and Lisa Thompson (Co -Chair)

Volunteer Central LaKisha Jackson (Chair) and Elizabeth Durham (Co-Chair)

Nominations & Elections

Conference Program

Dr. Richard Raleigh (Chair)

Priselda Perez (Chair), Gabriela Zepeda (Co-Chair), and Sandi Smith

LEVEL 1 MEETING SPACE

VENUE MAP

LEVEL 2 MEETING SPACE

TRIO ACHIEVER

TRIO ACHIEVER

TRIO ACHIEVER

TRIO ACHIEVER

PLENARY PANEL GUESTS Texas TRIO CONFERENCE

CLOSING PLENARY III

OPENING PLENARY I Leaving Our Mark

Our opening keynote speakers take a look back at the past 50 years of Texas TRIO as we look ahead at an exciting future.

TRIO + Institutional Support = Student Success

Facilitated by: Brittany Barnett and LaKisha

A discussion on student success and institutional support for TRIO programs. Panelists will motivate and inform conference attendees on the role TRIO programs play in student success and how to further garner institutional support for TRIO program staff and students.

PLENARY II

Cultivating Leadership, Navigating Transition in Leadership and How we Can Leave Our Mark

Facilitated by: Ray Cordero

A discussion to encourage, empower and motivate TRIO professionals as the press forward in their roles, navigating through change and still work toward leaving their mark within TRIO.

Plenary Speaker

For more than 15 years, Dr. Justin H. Lonon has provided proven executive and strategic leadership for Dallas College, guiding the institution to fulfill its mission of “transforming lives and communities through higher education.” Following a unanimous vote by the Dallas College Board of Trustees in 2021, Lonon was selected to be the College’s eighth chancellor in 2022.

Lonon previously served as executive vice chancellor leveraging his institutional knowledge to provide intentional leadership to the finance, governmental relations, legal, board relations, diversity, equity and inclusion, facilities, human resources, innovation and technology, marketing and communications, safety and security, emergency management, institutional effectiveness and strategic initiatives functional areas.

Lonon served as a driving force in the consolidation of the 55-year-old Dallas County Community College District -- and its seven colleges -- into one Dallas College. The historic move helps to meet the needs of Dallas County students, improving their access to in-demand degrees and credentials.

With a keen focus on equity and inclusion, Lonon championed the creation of the College’s inaugural Office of Social Responsibility and Inclusion. The office is in response to Dallas College’s longstanding commitment to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive environment that supports all students’ and employees’ pursuit of excellence.

Lonon began his career in Dallas at City Hall serving as press secretary for the Mayor’s Office. Because of his commitment to higher education and the Dallas community, Lonon serves on several national and local boards. including the Austin-based United Ways of Texas, the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas’ Advancement Committee, the North Texas Crime Commission among others. The Arkansas native earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Missouri State University, a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas and a doctorate in management from the University of Maryland – Global Campus.

Plenary Speaker

Dr. Clarenda M. Phillips

Dr. Clarenda M. Phillips is the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and a Professor of Sociology at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Dr. Phillips earned her Bachelor’s Degree from DePauw University, her Master’s and Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and her M.Div. from Asbury Theological Seminary.

In addition to her previous appointment as Provost at Notre Dame of Maryland University, Dr. Phillips served at Morehead State University as the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Assistant Provost, Director of the Interdisciplinary Women’s Studies Program, and Department Chair of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminology.

Dr. Phillips teaching and research have focused on the intersectionality of race, gender, and class and the sociology of mental health. In addition to authoring several book chapters and articles, she is the co-editor of African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and the Vision, which is now in its second edition. Dr. Phillips serves on the Board of Trustees at Lindsey Wilson College and the Board of Visitors at DePauw University.

Plenary Speaker

DR. ARNOLD MITCHEM President Emeritus of the Council for Opportunity in Education

Dr. Arnold Mitchem, President Emeritus of the Council for Opportunity in Education, has been a voice for low-income, first-generation students and individuals with disabilities his entire career. Thanks to his work, the federally funded TRIO Programs have expanded by nearly 400% and now serve more than an estimated 790,000 students at 1,000 colleges and universities.

He began his career on the History faculty at Marquette University in Milwaukee and was named the Director of the Educational Opportunity Program in 1969. He relocated to Washington, D.C., in 1986 to serve as President of the Council for Opportunity in Education until October 2013.

Dr. Mitchem has been awarded Honorary Doctorates from eleven universities — Lehman College; DePaul University; University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana; University of Liverpool, Marquette University; Marycrest College; University of Massachusetts Boston; Lewis University; St. Joseph’s University; Saint Louis University; and SUNY Buffalo State.

Plenary Speaker

COE UPDATES & PLENARY II

jones, esq. Executive Vice President at the Council for Opportunity in Education

Since 2007, Kimberly Jones has served as a leading advocate for low-income students, first-generation students, students with disabilities, and students of color. Currently, Ms. Jones serves as the Executive Vice President at the Council for Opportunity in Education (“COE”). In this role, she serves as the chief operating officer, providing leadership over the organization’s government relations and advocacy efforts; program and professional development offerings for college access and success professionals; print and digital communications, fiscal policies, and information technology; and the development and implementation of all student programming offered by COE. In September 2022, COE’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to elect Ms. Jones as the Council’s third president. Her tenure in this role will begin in October 2023.

Prior to joining COE, Ms. Jones was an Associate in the Communications Practice Group at the law firm of Dow Lohnes, PLLC (now Cooley LLP), where she advised clients on a variety of broadcast and media law issues.

Ms. Jones has served in leadership roles within various professional and civic organizations, including the Committee for Education Funding, of which she served as President. She is an inaugural Advisory Board Member for Black History 365, a comprehensive textbook and curriculum guide designed for students and educators that spans the breadth of Black American history, and a Board Member of Marked By COVID, a non-partisan charitable organization that promotes accountability, recognition, and justice for the millions of victims of COVID-19, including her father. Ms. Jones also volunteers with the DC Family & Youth Initiative, an organization that provides mentorship and support for young people in and aging out of the foster care system in the Washington, DC metro area.

A Harry S. Truman Scholar, Ms. Jones is a graduate of Yale University and the Georgetown University Law Center. In 2016, Kimberly was named one of the “40 Under 40 Nation’s Best Advocates” by the National Bar Association and also received the organization’s Excellence in Activism Award. In 2018, she was selected for the Diversity Executive Leadership Program sponsored by ASAE, the American Society of Association Executives. In 2021, Kimberly earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from ASAE.

Plenary Speaker

Secuban comes to Texas State from Ohio University, where she served as vice president for Diversity and Inclusion since 2018. While at Ohio University, she led the university to 5 straight years as a HEED award winner and provided leadership for the creation of the first-ever diversity, equity and inclusion strategic plan for the campus.

In this inaugural role at Texas State, Secuban will guide and coordinate diversity, equity, inclusion and access (DEIA) efforts at Texas State.

Secuban brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education to Texas State. Between 2012 and 2018, she served as associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Secuban also served 15 years at the University of Arkansas in various capacities, including senior associate director for the Freshman Engineering Program, director of the University’s Multicultural Center and director of Student Affairs and Diversity Services in the College of Education and Health Professions.

Secuban earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology, master’s degree in health science/ community health, and a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas. She is also a charter member of the Phi Alpha Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated of Northwest Arkansas and has been part of the organization for 29 years, recently selected as part of the Inaugural Executive Leadership Academy of the sorority in 2021.

Plenary Speaker

Vice

for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Tarleton State University in Stephenville Texas

Dr. Sherri H. Benn was selected as the university’s inaugural vice president to build DEI division and lead university’s DEIA strategic initiatives, create policies, programs, institutional and community initiatives that advance inclusive and equitable practices at all levels of the university and within the multi-campus communities the university serves, to advance and enhance an equitable, accessible, diverse and inclusive multi-campus culture, inclusive of international student support services.

She received her Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at Austin. She received her Master of Education in Education Administration from Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas and she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Minor in Geography from Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.

She is a seasoned and transformational leader with an aptitude for decision making, relationship building and multi-level communications, offering a solid comprehension of cultural diversity and inclusive practices with a history of building and managing complex, diverse outcomes-oriented teams. She has 20 plus years’ experience in progressive leadership experience in serving diverse populations in historically white institutions with transformational leadership in fiscal and personnel management and program evaluation.

She has many awards, publications, and accomplishments mostly in the field of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Plenary Speaker

Dr. Stephanie Hill has 25 years of experience serving students and the community in progressively responsible roles at the community college level. These roles span Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Administrative Services, District Relations, Strategic Initiatives and Priorities, and Student Success.

Throughout her career she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment towards developing a student-centric community that promotes the personal, social, and academic development of students college wide. She achieves this through the development of services, programs, and innovative learning experiences in the classroom and beyond.

Most recently, Dr. Hill served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Special Assistant to the Chancellor for Strategic Priorities at Tarrant County College. She currently serves as Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Engagement at Dallas College.

Dr. Hill is a community college graduate from the College of Southern Nevada, attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where she earned a Bachelor’s in Education and a Master’s in Public Administration, and completed her Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership with a specialization in Community College Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

Plenary Speaker

DR. JEREL BENTON Associate Vice President for Student Success at Texas A&M – Corpus Christi

Dr. Jerel Benton is a native of Lexington, KY. He graduated from Western Kentucky University, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Art in Adult and Higher Education from Morehead State University, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. His research focused on predicting first-year academic success for African American students using demographic, academic, and social pre-college characteristics. He is married to Gabrielle Benton and has three daughters (Ayden Benton, Alyssa Benton, and Amari Benton).

Dr. Benton has worked in higher education for over a decade. His passion is ensuring that all students have access to higher education and equitable outcomes. Early in his career, his roles focused on equity and diversity. He served as the Minority Retention Coordinator at Morehead State University, Director of African American Affairs at Minnesota State University – Mankato, and Sr. Diversity Officer at the University of Wisconsin – Superior. Over the last three years, Dr. Benton has broadened his impact on students by focusing on data to support informed decisionmaking in academic affairs and enhancing academic support services as the former Special Assistant to the Provost and his current role, Associate Vice President for Student Success at Texas A&M – Corpus Christi.

As a proud first-generation college student, Dr. Benton continues his pursuit of impacting students and future generations through enhancing academic support services at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. His recent accomplishments include the enhancement and development of a new advising model, tutoring model, Finish In 4 initiative, First Generation initiative, and a successful reorganization leading to the creation of the Office of Student Success. His engagement with nationally recognized organizations and projects with organizations such as the American Association of State Colleges and University’s (AASCU) “Student Success Equity Initiative”, sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and National Association of System Heads (NASH) “Taking Equity to Scale” initiative has allowed for him to continue to integrate and elevate diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to ensure all students are successful. Dr. Benton remains committed to pursuing student success for all students in hopes of contributing to the greater good for years to come.

Plenary Speaker

swasap UPDATES

Dr. Darica Simon is a native of Roanoke, Louisiana and currently serves as the Director of TRIO Programs at Baton Rouge Community College. She has 22 years of experience in administering federal TRIO programs.

A proud first-generation college graduate, Dr. Simon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Masters in Public Administration from Southern University and A&M College; a Doctorate in Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Dr. Simon has a very serious commitment to higher education, and she desires to see all students regardless of race, socioeconomic status, age, or gender reach their educational endeavors.

Dr. Simon’s research interests includes equity, diversity, and inclusion in higher education, cultural competence of community college student affairs professionals, access, and success of marginalized groups. In 2021, Dr. Simon launched her consulting business, Simon Says Consulting, LLC where she provides grant writing and evaluation services, technical support and leadership development training for TRIO programs and non- profits.

Dr. Simon resides in Baton Rouge, LA and enjoys serving her community through several organizations. She is active member in Baton Rouge Delta Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Women of the NAACP, and Dreams Keeper Academy Board of Directors. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, cheering on the New Orleans Saints, and traveling to tropical islands with her friends.

50th annual Texas TRIO 2023

50th Annual Texas TRIO Conference: Dallas, Texas

Date/Time

Saturday, February 18th, 2023

9:00am-5:00pm

1:00pm-5:00pm

CONFERENCE AT-A-GLANCE

February 18th-22nd, 2023

Conference At-A-Glance

Event Description

Conference Sub-Committee meetings/Setup (TBD)

Pre-Conference-Mental Health First Aid Training

1:00 pm-5:00pm ELI Cohort Meeting

6:00 pm- 8:00pm Texas TRIO Board Meeting

Sunday, February 19th, 2023

9:00 am-12:00 pm

9:00 am-1:30 pm

12:00pm-2:00 pm

Conference Sub-Committee meetings/Set-up (TBD)

Pre-Conference -Mental Health First Aid Training

Lunch on your own

12:00am-2:00pm Conference Committee Meeting

2:00pm-6:00pm Conference Registration

2:00pm-6:00pm

3:00pm-5:00pm

4:00pm-6:00pm

Exhibits Open

Newcomers Networking Session

Moderators Packet Pick Up

7:00pm-8:30pm Open Plenary I

8:30pm-10:00pm President’s Reception

Monday, February 20th, 2023

8:00am-5:00pm

Exhibits/Fundraising/Service Project

8:00am-9:00am Breakfast on your own

8:00am-12:00pm Conference Registration

9:00am-9:50am

10:00am-10:55am

11:00am-11:55am

Plenary II

Concurrent Session I

Concurrent Session II

12:00pm-1:45pm TX TRIO Business Luncheon

2:00pm-3:00pm Special Session- COE/SWASAP Updates

5:00pm-7:00pm

7:00pm-9:00pm

Kendra Scott Pop-Up

TRIO Achievers Banquet

9:00pm-12:00am Conference Social/Dance

Tuesday February 21st, 2023

8:00am-9:00am

8:00am-5:00pm

8:00am-11:00am

9:00am-9:55am

10:00am-10:55am

11:30pm-1:30pm

2:00pm-2:55pm

3:00pm-3:55pm

4:00pm-5:30 pm

4:00 pm-5:00 pm

7:00pm-9:00pm

9:00pm-11:00pm

Wednesday February 22 nd , 2023

9:00am-10:00am

10:00am-11:00am

11:00am-12:00pm

Breakfast on your own

Exhibits/Fundraising

Service Project

Concurrent Session III

Concurrent Session IV

Texas TRIO Recognition & Service Awards Luncheon

Concurrent V

Concurrent VI

Voting/Officer Elections for 2023-Electronic

Concurrent VII

Dinner on your own

Networking/Hospitality

Breakfast

Closing Plenary III

Business Meeting/New Officer Installation

12:00pm-2:00pm Board Meeting

TWO SESSIONS:

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2023

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training

Presenters: Nelly Cuenca and Vidya Ayyr

1:00 PM

9:00 AM

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.

Nelly Cuenca — Dallas, TX CEO MaaPaa.org

nellyjcuenca@gmail.com, 469-540-4764

As the CEO and founder of MaaPaa.org, Nelly Cuenca works with mothers and their children. Growing up in Dallas, she saw the inequality — individuals struggling with poverty, housing, loneliness and hunger drove her to pursue a degree in social work and a Masters from UTD. She is certified as a Mental Health First Aid instructor, and is in charge of all mental health and wellness initiatives for two major ZIP codes in Dallas county. In this role, Cuenca has witnessed firsthand the correlation between mental/physical illness with poor food intake, especially in low income communities. She also serves with several community centers, and is on the board for several initiatives. She was appointed by Dr. Elba Garcia to the Dallas Children’s Welfare Board.

CEO BrainCharge

vidya.mhfa@gmail.com, 972-876-2419

In the role of CEO and founder of BrainCharge, Vidya Ayyr works with unpaid family caregivers who are supporting loved ones with brain-related trauma, injury or illness. Serving as a public health practitioner in Dallas, she has spent the past decade of her career working to address the social determinants of health — housing, food, transportation. She is certified as a Mental Health First Aid instructor through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, and is a champion for increasing access to mental and behavioral health resources as part of improving overall health equity. Vidya remains active in her community, and is on the MDHA Racial Equity task force for Dallas.

50th Annual trio conference concurrent sessions schedule

Leveraging Dual Credit Opportunities to Promote Early College Access to Pre-College Program Participants

Presenter: Dr. Kimberly Flanders Location: San Jacinto

This workshop will provide an overview of dual credit programs offered at Dallas College as well as the potential benefits and risks of enrollment. The session will also cover how pre-college staff can assist students and families with preparing for, enrolling in, and persisting through these programs. Attendees will learn details about dual credit programs, which can help them support their students in attaining college success before high school graduation.

Community Engagement and Relationship Building

Presenter: Kristen Martinez Location: Pecos

This workshop will discuss the benefits of networking and building relationships over time. For many, networking or being in a room full of unfamiliar people can be intimidating. More often than not, professionals do not genuinely learn how to engage with others in a professional setting. Attendees will discover why it is critical to get involved in groups that can help further career interests and impact life through friendships and service.

Advocacy & the TRIO Movement

Presenter: Alex Ruiz Location: Willow Creek

The emergence of TRIO programs is rooted in advocacy. From the struggle for Civil Rights and the War on Poverty of the 60’s to the present progressive push to expand the services that TRIO programs provide, advocacy plays a pivotal role in ensuring the continued existence and future expansion of TRIO programs. This session will explore the emergence of TRIO programs, political activity, and the effects of advocacy within TRIO to provide a space for professionals to share the best practices in TRIO advocacy.

Needs Assessment Profile of Community College Students

Presenter: Dr. Syma Moody Location: Trinity River 3

This workshop will explore the needs that surveyed TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) students selfidentified as concerns related to their educational journey. The survey covered four areas, including areas to improve on, items that describe themselves, obstacles preventing the completion of academic goals, and other measures in need of assistance. Attendees can utilize this information to support their students in completing their educational journey.

Finding Your Why

Presenter: Christie Scott Location: Trinity River 4

This workshop will focus on enlightening TRIO professionals on how to find and maintain their “ Why.” There is a need for stability and direction in day-to-day operations and through setbacks. Often, it is helpful to discover or remember why we do what we do. Attendees will learn how having a purpose correlates positively with one’s understanding of passion, direction, and goal alignment.

Fake It till You Make It: How to Thrive and Prioritize Your Mental Health

Presenter: Christine Torres Location: San Jacinto

Have you experienced a learning curve associated with stepping into a new role or taking on additional responsibilities? Have you ever felt like you are learning as you go? If so, you may have heard or even used the phrase, “fake it till you make it.” In some cases, this phrase has every intention of building confidence. However, the challenge arises when you take it literally and begin to doubt your competence. Attending this workshop will help attendees reframe their thinking and empower them to thrive and prioritize their mental health.

Leading Through Challenging Times

Presenter: Dr. Leesa Giles Location: Pecos

In this session, attendees will examine various leadership styles that aid in motivating individuals and teams, promote sustainable growth, and enable transformation through challenging times. A leader’s style sets the tone for the rest of the organization and the organization’s level of development. Participants will take away researched-based strategies and tools, such as Bolman and Deal’s Four Frame Model.

The TRIO Oasis: Recharging Your Battery

Presenters: Kraig Curry & Bindy Tice Location: Willow Creek

TRIO professionals are often super busy taking care of others and sometimes forget to take care of their own needs. This workshop will provide attendees with energy healing techniques to help TRIO practitioners fill their reserves to serve program participants better. All are welcome to attend this session with an open heart and a will to heal.

TRIO as A Model for Research, Broader Impact, and Institutional Advancement

Presenter: Ray Cordero Location: Trinity River 3

In this workshop, we will discuss how we have infused research into TRIO operations as a means for active collaboration with faculty, seeking additional funding, publication, and genuinely weaving TRIO into the fabric of your institution. This workshop will focus on the processes and strategies regarding (re)centering student-facing postsecondary services as the lead researchers in exploring and understanding their data. We will also share the process for implementing an inclusive approach for research that will work with faculty, staff, and students on transformational, evidence-based models for student success aligned with galvanizing research embedded within its ongoing student-facing work.

ELI 101: Finding the Leader in You

Presenters: Abel Cerros, Kaela Harris, Joshua Hunter, Jasmine Montoya, Shawnna Sandles, Elijah

Serena, Keila Valdez, and Gabby Zepeda Location: Trinity River 4

Are you interested in becoming a leader in the Texas TRIO Association or at your institution? Join the Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI) Class of 2023 for an interactive workshop on their personal experiences with leadership development and the ELI program over the past year. In this session, attendees will discover more about ELI, the application process, and the major takeaways from the program. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to ask any questions about joining the 2024 ELI cohort.

50th Annual trio conference concurrent sessions schedule

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023

Building Resilient Kids

CONCURRENT SESSION III

Presenter: Yvonne Rodgers Location: San Jacinto

9:00 AM – 9:55 AM

We exist in a world of resilient people. So, what’s next? This workshop will guide attendees through the steps that allow students to conquer significant change and become the M.O.V.E. Makers of their life.

Communication and How to Use It to Your Advantage

Presenter: Derrick Payne Location: Pecos

Effective communication skills are critical elements in career and personal lives. Everyone uses a variety of communication techniques to both understand and be understood. In this workshop, attendees will reflect on the skills needed to communicate successfully with any individual or group at any time and under any circumstances.

African American Women’s Perceptions of Navigating Mental Health and Strategies for Coping

Presenter: Phyliceia Brown Location: Willow Creek

In this session, attendees will focus on African American women’s perception of navigating mental health from a study conducted by Gina M. Gaines’ in her dissertation, The Strong Black Woman’s Perceptions of Self-Care Engagement (2018).

Recruiting and Engaging the New Generation of Students

Presenter: Jasmine Henry & Melissa Dominguez Location: Trinity River 3

This workshop will present attendees with recruitment inclusivity practices, tips to increase student engagement, recommendations for retaining students, and suggestions for incorporating strategies to attract, enroll, and retain traditional and nontraditional students.

Beyond the Numbers: Student Engagement for TRIO Grants

Presenter: Marcy LaBossiere and Eric Chavarria Location: Trinity River 4

This workshop will review the best practices related to student engagement from the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant at St. Mary’s University. Attendees will explore student-centered approaches and provide specific examples that have helped improve student engagement. Additionally, there will be an interactive component where attendees brainstorm ideas to take back to their respective TRIO grants.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 CONCURRENT SESSION IV 10:00 AM – 10:55 AM

Bridging the Gap Between College Access and Completion

Presenter: Carlos Valadez Location: San Jacinto

In this session, attendees will examine the best practices for advising first-generation and at-risk students to bridge the gap between college access and completion. Attendees will discuss the ScholarShot Scholar program and the opportunities available for students. In addition, attendees will become familiar with a new tool (GapApp) designed to help students with their college decisions in the State of Texas.

Strategies and Tips for Managing Your Time and Priorities

Presenter: Christine Torres Location: Pecos

How well do you manage your time? Do you feel like your day is running from crisis to crisis? Perhaps you find yourself working late to catch up. The truth is that many professionals know that they can do a better job of managing time more effectively. However, sometimes, it can be challenging to identify what we can do differently. This workshop will help attendees identify areas where implementing strategies and tips can help manage time and priorities and help students overcome their time management challenges.

Change is Good - Keeping Students Engaged

Presenters: Leonie Dsouza & Veronica Jones Location: Willow Creek

In this session, attendees will discover ways to change up programs so that it remains exciting and fun while continuing to challenge students academically and increasing their exposure to a variety of opportunities.

Mental Health Ideas and Resources to Utilize with Your Students and Programs

Presenters: Christi Barnes, Maria Vasquez, & Viridiana Hernandez Location: Trinity River 3

Attendees will explore multiple platforms to access great material and resources for personality assessments, suicide awareness, and mental health presentations/activities. In addition, attendees will discover ideas for implementing mental health, self-exploration, and self-esteem focus into TRIO programs to address holistic approaches to self-care, balance, and boundaries that aid success!

Degrees vs Dropouts

Presenter: Dan Hooper Location: Trinity River 4

First-generation low-income (FGLI) students are typically overmatched in college, which is a leading reason why most drop out. Advisors and students must test match on likelihood of completion. Find out how this can happen and how to avoid it. Earning a degree is far more valuable than where it is earned or the name of the school. To break from generational poverty, the key is earning some post-secondary credential.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 CONCURRENT SESSION V 2:00 PM – 2:55 PM

Preparing Your Students for Careers in Research and Health Professions

Presenters: Rebeca Perfecto & Rance Berg Location: San Jacinto

In this session, attendees will learn how to prepare their students for careers in Research and Health Professions, hear from our admissions team and faculty members on how to prepare competitive applications, and earn a leg up on the competition.

The Role of Mentorship: Building a Male Achievement Program

Presenters: Juan Bosquez, Carlos Cortez, & Xavier Chancellor Location: Pecos

Although higher education enrollment for underrepresented students continues to rise, there is still a gap between that and finding success while there. As students navigate the college experience, most begin to face challenges throughout their first year, which culminates in them deciding whether they should continue; factors also include socio-economic and under-preparedness. When we look at stats within male minorities in higher education, however, the gap is noticeably wider. Because of such factors, attendees will understand the role they play and discover the best approaches and practices to bridge the gap.

50th Annual trio conference concurrent sessions schedule

Into the Matrix: Taking Your Program Digital

Presenters: Hannah Davis Sutton, Kristen Miller, & Joseph Cowen Location: Willow Creek

Are you ready to stop pushing paper and take your program into the digital age? In this session, attendees will uncover methods to transition away from physical paper files for participants while maintaining the record keeping standards set forth by TRIO legs and regs. Join us as we discuss tips, tricks, software, and integrations that will make your program more efficient and your TRIO team’s lives easier.

Leveraging Project Based Learning (PBL) for Underrepresented Students

Presenter: Kevin Sanders Location: Trinity River 3

In this session, attendees will discuss how to utilize Project Based Learning (PBL) to give students access to industry and career readiness. Attendees will see some of the ways we engage students in a three-year, cohort-based PBL program at UNT at Frisco. Many of our students hold minority status and have a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders.

Supporting LBTQIA+ Students

Presenters: Elijah Serena & Lionel Lopez Location: Trinity River 4 TRIO programs prepare students for secondary education completion through post-secondary completion and towards terminal degrees. This workshop will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to better serve their LGBTQIA+ students by providing the following topics: insight into the issues facing LGBTQIA+ youth (both current & historical) and action items for positive change in your program.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 CONCURRENT SESSION VI

3:00 PM – 3:55 PM

Family Involvement and its Influence on First-Gen Latinx College Students Academic Success & Career Development

Presenter: Juan Armijo Location: San Jacinto

As the Latinx population continues to grow in the United States, the rates of retention, persistence, and graduation among Latinx college students are still disproportionate, and are not reflective of the Latinx U.S. population (National Center for Education Statistics, 2019). Although there are many challenges and barriers that impact the enrollment, retention, and graduation rates for first-generation Latinx undergraduate students (Nadeau, 2014), this should not overshadow the familial involvement that provides support for this population of students. Yosso community cultural wealth model examines six forms of capital that Students of Color experience, with one of the forms of capital being familial capital (Yosso, 2005). Familial capital are the social and human resources that students have that contribute to their time in college. These can be family, friends, and community networks which all support firstgeneration Latin students in their overall learning and development while in college (Marrun, 2020). TRIO program professionals are often the family, friends and community network needed for students to succeed. Find out the rationale for why we do what we do.

Finding Your Way Through the First Year Experience

Presenter: Derrick Payne Location: Pecos

In this session, attendees will review questions to be answered in the first year- by students and by those who are leading them through the first year (1) Who are you and what do you want (2) Here are you and why are you there (3) What are you going to do and how are you going to do it? (4) Who are your allies and how can they help?

Compliance Assessment or External Evaluation?

Presenters: Elizabeth “Lisa” Retamozo & Laurie Lawrence Location: Willow Creek

Attendees will discuss the different features and benefits to determine which is more appropriate for your Project. This session will also provide an overview of the documents/records to ensure compliance readiness and which programming components should be assessed as part of a process-based evaluation.

Impostor Syndrome and Career Readiness

Presenter: Michelle Meers Location: Trinity River 3

Our TRIO students often limit themselves to Impostor Syndrome. In this session, attendees will learn how to recognize it and minimize it through career readiness support and interventions.

Thriving Relationships with Partner Target School Districts

Presenter: Christi Barnes Location: Trinity River 4

Maintaining momentum with student services can be difficult with a high turnover of administration and counselors (especially in rural districts). Reestablishing a knowledge of TRIO and reporting to new staff can be exhausting. In this session, attendees will learn tips for connecting with target school(s) personnel to maintain success in each unique partnership. Elevating your program partnership will enhance student services, thrive through recruitment, and build networking in the communities we serve!

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 CONCURRENT SESSION VII 4:00 PM – 4:55 PM

5 Habits of Healthy Relationships (Including and Especially the One with Yourself)

Presenter: Billie Sue Smith Location: Pecos

What makes for a successful, healthy relationship with students? Our coworkers? Family members? Friends? Romantic partners? Although distinct dynamics, most relationships require similar elements to survive, and in this session, attendees will discuss five habits that keep them thriving! But keep your shirt on your back and give someone a different one because we will also discuss taking care of the most important relationship you will ever have with yourself.

We Fall Up: How to M.O.V.E. From Setback to Success

Presenter: Yvonne Rodgers Location: Willow Creek

Based on Yvonne’s book ‘We Fall Up: How to M.O.V.E. from setback to success’ the presentation explores four core competencies for success using the M.O.V.E. Method. In this session, attendees will leave with solid strategies to overcome challenges and elevate to success.

The Participation Effect: How to Increase Student Participation In a World Of Student Apathy

Presenter: Mark Fisher Location: Trinity River 3

Student participation is one of the most significant determining factors for student success. The more students participate, the more successful they become. But student apathy is increasingly becoming

50th Annual trio conference concurrent sessions schedule

problematic. So, how do you get disengaged students to become engaged and even excited about participation so they can develop to their full potential? The solution is reframing how students view their lives to realize how participation is the path to the opportunities they most want now and in the future. Through this interactive discussion, attendees unpack (1) How to demystify the process of tricking the mind into actually believing what may now seem impossible (2) Little known strategies for beginning to see how personal character traits that are seen as weaknesses are actual sources of strength (3)The “curse of procrastination,” how to spot it and how to overcome it by focusing on what students want most vs. right now.

The Power of Engagement

Presenter: Luis Perez Location: Trinity River 4

Are you looking for activities and ideas to make your student sessions more relevant and engaging? Then, this session is for you. Attendees will explore the importance of hands-on activities, gain strategies and tips to enhance lessons, and discover resources to implement with students! Join us as we discuss, play, and learn about the power of engagement!

Women’s Self-Defense Class

Presenter: Mauro Matai Location: The Den

This session is designed to meet the needs of women when control methods and assault prevention methods are required. Principles and strategies for effectively reducing the likelihood of assault through techniques of countering attacks are stressed in this program. Participants will learn four main principles of self-defense: (1) Situational Awareness (2) Communication Verbal and Non-Verbal (3) Fitness (4) Techniques.

*Wear something comfortable

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The conference favorite is back and we need your support to make it a success.

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Cambridge Educational Services announces a $5,000 Partners in Progress Grant Award at the TEXAS TRIO CONFERENCE

David Waldherr, founder of Cambridge Educational Services announced a $5,000 Partners in Progress Grant Award for TEXAS TRIO members just before their Annual TEXAS TRIO CONFERENCE.

For over 30 years, Cambridge has been working with TRIO and schools to support low-income and disadvantaged students in their pursuit of successful careers and college and graduate school education through donating print or online: 1) skillbuilding materials, 2) student motivation workshops, 3) career interest inventory, 4) teacher professional development, and 5) test preparation program materials.

We are proud to announce that the Cambridge Grant Award Program has exceeded $9 million in assistance to deserving programs. For more information, on program rules contact Cheryl below, or stop by our booth or visit our website at www.cambridgeed.com

210-441-6421

cbaird@CambridgeEd.com

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