Elizondo chosen for Texas Community College Student Advisory Council

San Jacinto College North Campus Student Government Association president Christian Elizondo has been selected to join 12 college students statewide for the new Texas Community College Student Advisory Council.

Young Invincibles, The Education Trust in Texas, Every Texan, and Breakthrough Central Texas organize and support the council as a joint initiative of the Texas Postsecondary Advocates Coalition for Equity.

"I'm honored to join the efforts of these organizations," Elizondo said. "The internship is all about research and finding what is best for students. As the SGA president, it's my job to be the voice for all students, and this creates an opportunity for me to extend that responsibility."

The council includes first-generation college students, veterans, student government leaders, and Texans of diverse races, ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds.

As part of a paid fellowship through early 2023, Elizondo will engage in the work of the Texas Commission on Community College Finance and subsequent legislative activity.

"Right now, our focus is researching funding for students and what the true needs are across all community colleges in Texas," Elizondo said.

Passed in 2021, Senate Bill 1230 established the Texas Commission on Community College Finance to make recommendations to the 88th Texas Legislature. While the commission is not required to include a student member, its membership is encouraged to reflect the state's geographic and ethnic diversity. The commission seeks stakeholder input and accounts for equity in student outcomes in alignment with the state's postsecondary goals.

"We call on Texas leaders to ensure that student perspectives are included in key planning and recommendation building," said Elizabeth Kufor, southern program coordinator for Young Invincibles. "We are eager to learn from these students about the issues that concern them and the ideas they have for enhancing the experiences and outcomes of community college students across the state."

On top of his studies and his role as SGA president, Elizondo also serves as an English tutor on the North Campus.

"It's important to get involved and be active on campus and in your community," Elizondo said. "Not only can you help others, but you can challenge yourself and make meaningful connections."