On Wednesday, January 14, the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley proudly launched Bridge to STEM, a bold new initiative designed to support community college students as they prepare to transfer successfully into STEM programs at four-year universities. This program marks an exciting milestone for The Foundation: our first-ever program explicitly dedicated to community college students.
Bridge to STEM (BTS) provides early exposure to STEM careers, foundational financial literacy and support, and mentorship opportunities. By equipping students with the tools, confidence, and networks needed to navigate the transfer process, they will transition well into a rigorous STEM program at a four-year university.
Building this program was a natural and strategic evolution of the Latinos in Technology Scholars Initiative (LITSI). Since 2016, LITSI has supported over 450 scholars in graduating and launching careers in STEM industries. 33% of our LITSI scholars began their higher education journey at a community college. They bring immense talent and determination, yet face unique challenges navigating the transfer process. Bridge to STEM was created in direct response to this insight—extending our support to first- and second-year community college students and strengthening the pipeline into LITSI.
Our inaugural cohort at Evergreen Valley College represents the start of this curriculum in action. The program is built to bring industry experts directly to our students to focus on the tangible milestones of the transfer process. During the first session, BTS scholars worked closely with Alejandra Acosta, Founder and CEO of One Degree Hotter, to understand the nuances of transfer applications and build strategic university lists. Rather than a one-time lecture, these sessions provide hands-on guidance on navigating the steps required to transfer.
Similarly, the program integrates access to campus faculty. EVC’s Director of Student Outreach, Brandon Yanari, walked students through the CSU and UC transfer portals in the first session. He also highlighted on-campus resources like tutoring and counseling. Brandon is just one of the many experts our scholars will become acquainted with. Ensuring students know who on campus is available for support equips them with the practical knowledge to succeed.
Beyond technical and institutional support, Bridge to STEM provides scholars with direct access to a robust professional network. HFSV Board Member Maria Reyes shared her personal story of perseverance during this first session. Hearing stories like hers (retaking calculus and ultimately graduating from Harvard) from STEM leaders inspires students to see themselves in these roles while simultaneously expanding their professional networks.
In response to why they joined this program, one BTS scholar said, ”I really loved all the information and resources that were presented. It was a very positive and educational experience. It was very welcoming and a great opportunity to learn.”
We are deeply grateful for the warm partnership and support of Evergreen Valley College (EVC) and thrilled by the strong start of our first Bridge to STEM cohort. We specifically want to thank Maniphone “Mone” Dickerson, Acting Vice President of Academic Affairs, for her inspiring message to students on cultivating an innovative mindset. And thank you to Brandon and his team, Bryanna Perez, and Ingrid Rottman for their support with designing the program, recruiting scholars, and executing the launch.
Ultimately, the Bridge to STEM program represents an early, intentional investment in Latino students, designed to prepare them to successfully transfer to four-year universities and position them for the Latinos in Technology Scholars Initiative before their junior year. By providing this early support, we are not just helping individuals; we are building a pathway for these scholars to become leaders in Silicon Valley. We look forward to watching both our scholars and the Bridge to STEM program strengthen the STEM workforce of tomorrow.
To support Bridge to STEM, click here to donate. To learn more about the program, please email paola@hfsv.org.