Civic Leadership Series: Students Shaping California’s Future

From students to changemakers!

As California marks 175 years of statehood and the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, this three-part series is designed for high school and college students across the state who are ready to turn awareness and passion into action.

Through sessions focused on California’s legislative, executive, and judicial branches. You’ll learn how the government actually works and how students can engage with each branch during a critical election cycle.

The series highlights TK–16 education as a powerful entry point for civic action, illustrating how policy decisions impact learners, educators, and communities—and how your voice can help advance a more inclusive, accessible education system for all.

Hosted by the UC|CSU Collaborative, this series connects research, policy, and practice, demonstrating how civic engagement strengthens communities, supports student well-being, and expands opportunity. You won’t just learn about civic engagement, you’ll practice it!

Designed for students approximately ages 16–25, this series explores how to engage with California’s legislative, executive, and judicial branches to create meaningful change. Opening remarks will be provided by Dr. Alison Yoshimoto-Towery, member of the California State Board of Education and liaison for Civic Learning.

This webinar features Assemblymember Dr. Darshana R. Patel, who was elected in 2024 to represent California’s 76th Assembly District in northern San Diego County, including Escondido, San Marcos, parts of San Diego, and surrounding unincorporated communities. A research scientist, former school board president, and community leader, she earned a B.A. in Biochemistry from Occidental College and a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of California, Irvine, before working in biotechnology research.

Register Now!