Riverside City College UMOJA Queens Participate in Transformative Nandi Conference

Riverside City College’s (RCC) UMOJA Queens proudly participated in the 3rd Annual Nandi Conference in San Diego, Calif., a transformative gathering of women across the California Community College (CCC) system dedicated to this year’s theme, Centering Well-Being as an Act of Liberation.

Through the leadership and support of Corey Timberlake, Ed.D., UMOJA Counselor/Coordinator at RCC, the UMOJA Queens attended the conference alongside mental health advocates Mary Rankin, PsyD, LMFT,  and Cherisse Hunter-Southern, Ed.D. The experience provided students with an opportunity to connect with inspiring women from across the state, engage in meaningful dialogue around self-care and leadership, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the broader CCC community.

A defining highlight of the event was a keynote address by California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. who spoke passionately on the necessity of self-care as both a personal and political act. Her reflections on authenticity, courage, and community deeply resonated with RCC students and staff, and the opportunity to meet Shirley Weber, Ph.D., in person left a lasting impact.

Participation in the annual Nandi Conference supports RCC’s Institutional Priority of Community Engagement, advancing the college’s strategic goals to promote student success, equity, leadership development, and holistic well-being. The conference exemplifies RCC’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces where students can grow, lead, and connect beyond the classroom.

“The Nandi Conference reminded us that liberation begins with wellness — when our students are empowered to care for themselves, they are better equipped to lead and uplift others,” said Mary Rankin, PsyD, LMFT.

RCC’s UMOJA Queens extend heartfelt gratitude to the UMOJA Program for their continued advocacy and for making this invaluable opportunity possible for students.