Fresno City College has introduced a new program called CHEL, a learning community designed to support and empower LGBTQIA+ students and their allies on campus in LI-143.
The program provides support that connects students with counseling services, staff guidance and classroom instruction that go along with their degree and transfer requirements.
Linda Vang, a counselor for CHEL and the Pride Center, believes students could benefit from the resources CHEL provides.
“We are also putting students into courses in accordance with their degree requirements or transfer requirements. So the goal was to pretty much provide that kind of holistic support through counseling and staff support here, as well as in the classroom,” Vang said.
Vang says that the space is beneficial for creating an environment that supports students academically.
“Our mission is to not only build space, create space, but have a safe space for them to learn from one another, build that community and to increase the not only retention but persistence rate of our core students,” Vang said.
The program is designed in direct alignment with FCC’s Equity Plan, addressing key metrics such as student persistence, an area where students taking general education courses in order to graduate have historically struggled with during their transition from their first to second year.
LGBTQIA+ Students within the CHEL program receive academic support to ensure that they are able to graduate including cohort classes each semester, preparation for a four-year and loaning laptops to students during the year they are participating in the program.
The CHEL program has already successfully been helping students with their academic journey. Eve, a student in the CHEL program, feels comfortable being themselves because of CHEL.
“I finally have a place to be myself and not get discouraged or secluded,” Eve said.
The program works closely with students as they complete their course plan, ensuring they are able to graduate and transfer to a four-year university.
“The CHEL program is also preparing me for my future career by helping me be more productive and more focused in my classes,” Eve said.
CHEL is a Mayan word meaning “rainbow” which reflects the diversity and vibrancy of the students it aims to serve. Originally founded at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, the program has now made its way to FCC, where it provides a combination of academic support, cultural programming and explores topics like identity, belonging and higher education.
The mission of the CHEL program is to create not only a physical space but also a safe and affirming environment where students can learn from one another, build community and develop a sense of belonging. Through this supportive atmosphere, CHEL aims to help students thrive academically and personally, increasing both their retention and persistence in higher education.
“Our hope is to through visibility right through space, creating spaces that have a positive impact on the culture of Fresno City College,” Vang said.
As CHEL continues to grow, its impact reaches beyond the classroom. The program serves as a reminder that belonging and learning go hand in hand. When students feel supported, they thrive.
Through shared stories, community building and unwavering support, CHEL is helping students feel seen, valued and empowered to succeed for their future and dreams.
