Empowerment Conference

Friday, April 25, 2025
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center

A transformative series of innovative workshops, resources, panels, keynotes, to enhance academic, career, personal, and financial development for all members of the campus community.

Complimentary breakfast, coffee, and conference registration

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM @ UCEN Lobby

Welcome & Opening Remarks

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM @ UCEN 107

Keynote: Leading with Purpose: Empowering Others and Making a Difference

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM @ UCEN 107

Session 1

11:00 AM - 11:50 AM @ UCEN 205

Empowerment in Curiosity: The Art of Asking for Help w/ Dr. Hernan Ramirez & Pamela Williams Paez

Workshop Description: This dynamic workshop is focused on cultivating the power of curiosity and the crucial skill of asking for help. Participants will learn how embracing curiosity can lead to deeper learning and personal growth. The session will address common barriers to seeking assistance and provide practical strategies to overcome them. By exploring the art of asking for help, students will gain confidence in reaching out to peers, instructors, and resources, ultimately fostering a more collaborative and supportive academic environment. This workshop is perfect for students eager to enhance their problem-solving abilities and build stronger connections within their educational community.

Hernan Ramirez, Ph.D. | Professor of Sociology, College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography:

Dr. Hernan Ramirez is a Professor of Sociology at COC and also serves as faculty advisor for the Sociology Club and co-lead of the Latinx Alliance. The son of Mexican immigrant parents, he was a first-generation college student who earned a BA from UCLA and a PhD from USC, both in sociology

Pamela Williams-Páez, M.A. | Professor of Sociology, College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography:

As a first-generation college student I didn’t know how to navigate the higher education experience. After initial struggling and poor grades, I leaned to reach out and seek out mentors. Finding allies throughout the process truly helps to fill in the gaps and gives one more confidence.  As we have folks to offer support, feedback, and healthy advise, this makes the journey much more comfortable for learning. I owe my mentors and support forces many thanks for helping me get here. 

Empowerment Conference Resource and Small Business Vendor Fair

@ UCEN (Ourdoor entryway)

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Discover the wealth of campus resources designed to support your academic, career, personal, and financial success! Connect with programs and services that can help you thrive, from tutoring and career guidance to financial aid and wellness support. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to explore and support student-owned businesses showcasing their unique products and merchandise. Whether you're looking for resources to fuel your journey or want to shop and celebrate student entrepreneurs, this fair is the perfect place to get inspired and empowered!

Free Lunch @ UCEN Patio (Near University Cafe)

12:00 PM - 12:50 PM

Session 2 Breakout Sessions

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM @ UCEN 312

Celebrating Student Voices: the Production of cul-de-sac, Literary and Arts Magazine w/ Dr. Alene Terzian-Zeitounian

Workshop Description: In this session, participants will learn how COC's award winning literary and arts magazine, cul-de-sac, has amplified students' voices and celebrated the diversity of their lived experiences. The session will focus on cul-de-sac's history, mission, and goals to illustrate how, over the past 17 years, the project has empowered students to contribute, collaborate, and create.

Alene Terzian-Zeitounian, EdD | English Professor, College of the Canyons

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM @ UCEN 314

LinkedIn Lift-Off: Elevate Your Professional Profile w/ Kari Dahlquist

Workshop Description: This hands-on workshop is designed to help students and professionals alike build a standout LinkedIn profile that attracts opportunities and expands their network. Participants will learn how to craft compelling headlines, write engaging summaries, and highlight key experiences and skills. The session will also cover strategies for networking, engaging with industry content, and leveraging LinkedIn's tools to enhance visibility. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine your existing profile, this workshop will equip you with the insights and techniques needed to elevate your professional presence on LinkedIn and advance your career goals.

Kari Dahlquist | Job Developer, College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography: 

As a Job Developer in the Employment Center at College of the Canyons and a dedicated advocate for Career Technical Education, I specialize in empowering student job seekers by helping them identify their technical and transferable skills and core competencies to create resumes and professional profiles that tell compelling stories leading to employment. With years of experience connecting students to career pathways, I am passionate about helping individuals access, explore, and achieve their career goals. My wide-ranging and twisty career journey has included roles as a Career & College Readiness Specialist at Saugus and Canyon High Schools, a Public Relations Executive at Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a freelance publicist for feature films, and a parent advocate serving the local PTA.  These experiences have equipped me with a comprehensive skill set encompassing clear communication, collaboration, and strategic planning, along with a deep appreciation for the power of community and teamwork.

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Session 3 Breakout Sessions

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM @ UCEN 209

Money Mindfulness: Cultivating Healthy Financial Habits for Life w/ Angela Harris

Workshop Description: This workshop would cover key skills in financial literacy as part of the financial development component of our conference. Our task force believes you would be an excellent fit as you have been such a tremendous financial literacy resource for our campus community.

Angela Harris | Financial Aid Counselor, College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography:  

Angela came to College of the Canyons in 2011 after spending over five years as a High School College and Guidance Counselor. She started in the Financial Aid office as an Advisor. Currently, she is the Financial Aid Counselor where she meets with students who have been denied financial aid in order to assist them with their financial aid appeal. She also helps students decipher their financial aid award letters, remaining financial aid eligibility and anything else related to a student’s financial aid file. She attended CSUN, where she received a Bachelor Degree in Liberal Studies, a Master’s Degree in School Counseling and a Pupil Personal Services Credential. She also has a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA Extension. Angela also teaches other high school counselors about the "Fundamentals of Financial Aid" in order to help as many students as possible obtain eligibility for aid.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM @ UCEN 310

Conquering Procrastination & Student Success Skills w/ Liz Shaker, MSEd & Claire Triplett, MS

Workshop Description: This interactive seminar is designed to empower students with effective strategies to overcome procrastination and develop essential success skills. The workshop will also cover essential student success skills, including study habits, stress management, and self-discipline, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive academically and personally. Ideal for students at all levels who are looking to enhance their productivity and achieve their full potential.

Liz Shaker, MSEd | Counselor & Pathway to Law School Champion, College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography: 

Liz Shaker is Counseling Faculty and Pathway to Law School Champion at College of the Canyons. A first-generation college student, Liz is passionate about empowering students to build confidence and pursue their academic and career goals.

Originally from Redwood City, CA, Liz earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in chemistry from UC San Diego and a master’s degree from USC. She has been a general counselor at COC for nearly 20 years, moving to the Canyon Country Campus when it opened in 2007. Liz has been involved with the Pathway to Law School program since its launch in 2017, which aims to increase diversity in the legal field by offering academic support and networking opportunities.

Liz feels honored to guide students through their academic journeys, helping them overcome obstacles and gain confidence to achieve their goals.

Claire Triplett, MS| Counseling & College Student Personnel Candidate | California Lutheran University

Speaker Biography: 

Claire Triplett, is a M.S. in Counseling and College Student Personnel candidate at California Lutheran University, set to graduate in December of 2025! She currently serves as the Counseling Intern for the 2024-2025 academic year at College of the Canyons. 

Claire holds an Associate of Arts degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She is a passionate and dedicated disability advocate and soon to be a higher education professional.   In addition to serving as the Counseling Intern, Claire also works as the Independent Living Specialist at Access Central Coast, a non-profit organization that is committed to disability advocacy and education.

Claire’s experiences in higher education, case management, and social services has helped her understand the unique challenges faced by various populations and she is dedicated to compassionate, accessible, and socially just counseling! Being a first-generation community college student, she would love the opportunity to make an impact on the population we serve here at COC. 

 

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Closing Keynote: Darlene Trevino

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM @ UCEN 205

Workshop Description: Join us for a powerful and uplifting closing keynote featuring EOPS alumna and College of the Canyons Board of Trustees Member, Darlene Trevino. In this dynamic interview-style conversation, Darlene will share her personal journey—one of resilience, determination, and triumph over obstacles. Her story will serve as a powerful reminder that success is not a straight path but a transformative climb filled with peaks, valleys, and moments of growth. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and empowered to embrace your own journey with confidence and purpose.

Darlene Trevino, Esq.| Personal Injury Law Firm and Owner of Trevino Law Firm/Board of Trustees Member | College of the Canyons

Speaker Biography: 

Darlene Trevino is the founding attorney of Trevino Law Firm, one of California’s fastest-growing personal injury firms, having secured over $30 million in settlements. With an unwavering commitment to justice, she ensures that every client receives personalized advocacy while navigating the complexities of insurance claims.

Beyond her legal practice, Darlene is deeply involved in community service. She serves on the College of the Canyons Board of Trustees, advocating for student success and educational opportunities. As Vice President of the Antelope Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Director of the Antelope Valley Sheriff Boosters, she actively supports local businesses, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives. Her philanthropic efforts include collaborating with Henry Mayo Hospital Foundation, Vets4 Veterans, and Businesswomen of God, supporting causes that benefit youth, veterans, and underserved communities. She also funds scholarships for local high school students and mentors small business owners.

When not championing her clients’ rights or serving the community, Darlene enjoys quality time with her family, attending Sunday services, and supporting her children’s involvement in Pony League baseball and softball. Her dedication to justice, education, and community upliftment reflects her lifelong commitment to making a meaningful impact.