Editor’s note: This recap was provided by the Linn-Benton Community College Office of Institutional Equity, Diversity & Inclusion.
LBCC’s second annual Latine High School Leadership Conference, held under the theme “United in Strength and Hope / Unidos en Fuerza y Esperanza,” brought together 180 students from 11 high schools for a day of college and financial aid info and resources, leadership development, and student empowerment.
The conference featured 16 distinct interactive workshops covering topics like art, wellness, college and career readiness, and community leadership. Students also engaged with 39 exhibitors during a vibrant resource fair that offered direct access to colleges, nonprofits, and community organizations.
Throughout the day, the positive energy was undeniable. Community members walking by stopped to offer compliments, praising LBCC for “putting on such a wonderful event.” As students loaded buses, exited sessions, or ate lunch, they gave enthusiastic thumbs-up gestures — a clear sign of approval and appreciation.
A standout feature of the day was the unveiling of four original portrait paintings from the Pintando Nuestra Comunidad (Painting Our Community) art workshop. Each portrait honored a local community member who has made or is making a meaningful impact within the Latine community — offering powerful examples of leadership rooted in service and culture.
The day concluded with a reflective circle of sharing, giving space for students and facilitators to connect, express, and listen.
“The circle of sharing stuff at the end was really fun, and I think that should stick around,” shared one adult participant. “It was a little awkward with my seniors at first, but they warmed up more and more over time, and I even had the opportunity to share an experience of my own — which led to EVEN MORE responses from the students.”
Workshops also encouraged personal insight and emotional growth. “I was doing an activity (as a presenter) about going with the flow and having unpredictable circumstances come up and you have to change direction,” shared one presenter. “One of the students profoundly said, ‘There are circumstances you can’t control, but you can only control your reaction to it.’ This is not ‘new information,’ but such a critical life practice. I affirmed him and said, ‘Yes, I’m still practicing that!’ I was really proud of this student for having that takeaway.”
Volunteers noted the students’ strong engagement throughout the day. “I was so impressed with the students who attended. They were engaged with the conference and each other, showed very positive attitudes, made good use of their time, and seemed to have fun. Great event!” said a volunteer.
The conference also celebrated student achievement with the presentation of four scholarships, pending their fall 2025 enrollment to the college, each donated by a different community-based funding organization.
● Natalie Flores received a $1,500 Central Willamette Credit Union Scholarship
● Jessica Muñoz received a $1,200 Mid-Valley STEM-CTE Hub Scholarship
● Claudia Mendez-Martinez received a $1,200 NAACP Scholarship
● Carlos Alejandro Lita Valverde received a $1,200 LBCC Foundation Scholarship
“This scholarship motivates me to keep pushing forward and do my best, not just for myself, but to show that your choice to support me was worth it. I won’t take it for granted. Being chosen for this scholarship makes me feel proud and seen. Thank you again for believing in me. I am incredibly grateful.” said Mendez-Martinez, class of 2025, South Albany High School.
The conference was made possible through the dedication of 52 planning committee members and volunteers, whose months of hard work brought the conference to life.
“I know I learned a lot!” said one volunteer. “Acknowledging that countless hours went into the planning, I want to congratulate the Institutional Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team, and the other organizers on the huge success!”
With its growing momentum, the Latine High School Leadership Conference continues to serve as a vital space for connection, inspiration, and cultural affirmation— building strength and hope for the next generation of leaders.
Sources: All but one quote were provided anonymously by students, volunteers, presenters, and attendees during and after the conference.
