
SMCC Student Senator, Victor Ayala Herrera, an honors B.S. student in the Behavioral Science Program at South Mountain Community College, proudly represented the college and MCCCD at the Up to Us Bootcamp Leadership event in Washington, D.C. As one of only two community college students selected nationwide, Victor engaged with top students from Yale, Princeton, and Harvard to discuss critical policy issues.
Competing in a fast-paced policy challenge, Victor placed in the top six finalists, showcasing his dedication to higher education advocacy. His experience, fully funded by the program, included leadership training, networking with policymakers, and exploring historic landmarks.
Victor’s journey exemplifies the power of student leadership, ambition, and the impact of community college students on national conversations.