The UC Davis Avanza Initiative is dedicated to addressing institutional barriers to student access, with a particular focus on low-income students. For the 2026–2027 academic year, Avanza is seeking undergraduate students to serve on the Avanza Rising Scholars Undergraduate Council (ARSUC).

Across UC Davis and the University of California, researchers, educators and community partners are advancing civic learning through scholarship, public programs and opportunities for engagement. Together, these efforts underscore the role of universities in preparing people not only to participate in elections, but also to engage thoughtfully in civic life. 

The City of West Sacramento honored the Avanza Rising Scholars Conference during its annual Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation, recognizing the conference's contributions to expanding educational opportunity for students and families throughout the Sacramento region.

A new essay in the UC Davis Law Review by Distinguished Professor of Law Raquel Aldana explores the evolution of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and the role they play in advancing educational equity.

UC Davis will welcome students from middle school to community college and their families to the Avanza Rising Scholars Conference for information, inspiration and empowerment to pursue a college degree.

Verónica Martínez Cerdeño is being honored with the Distinguished Scholarly Public Service Award by the UC Davis Academic Senate for her exceptional work connecting neuroscience research with meaningful community engagement. As a professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in the School of Medicine, CAMPOS scholar, and a member of the MIND Institute, Martínez Cerdeño studies brain development and neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism, with an emphasis on ensuring that scientific discovery benefits the communities it aims to serve.

In May 2026, the Avanza Initiative is preparing to host its annual conference, which supports K–16 students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in higher education. Our mission is to serve our communities by encouraging students to pursue a college degree. In the past, this event has been known as the César Chávez Leadership Conference.