Avanza Rising Scholars Conference

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Avanza Rising Scholars Conference
Learn more about the 2026 Conference

Avanza Rising Scholars Conference

For middle school, high school, and community college students—and their families—this conference is a college-focused event that connects participants with campus resources, information, and guidance to support their path to higher education. Through alumni and community partnerships, it advances UC Davis’ Avanza Initiative to expand access, support student success, and strengthen its HSI commitment.
Register for the Conference Learn More About This Year's Event

Announcing the 2026 Avanza Rising Scholars Conference

Saturday, May 16 from 8:00am - 3:00pm
University Credit Union Center (750 Orchard Road)  

 

Logo for the Rising Scholars Conference, featuring white text on a light blue background.

The Avanza Rising Scholars Conference is a free college and career motivational event for junior high, high school and community college students, as well as parents and community members. The goal of this annual conference is to introduce the value of attending college - particularly to individuals who may not be considering higher education due to lack of information or financial resources. 

 

Each year, the conference delivers an engaging program that:

  • Nurtures the concept that all individuals are leaders
  • Provides information on the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) admission requirements
  • Provides information on how to transfer from the California Community College (CCC) system to the University of California system
  • Introduces a number of career paths, including how to become a doctor, pharmacist, engineer, and social science professions both in the public and private sectors
  • Exhibitors session including campus and community partners sharing college, career, and student support resources

 

Registration

We strongly encourage all attendees to pre-register. Walk-in admission will be available only if space allows.

Who Should Attend

We invite you to share this opportunity with all of your students, regardless of academic standing. Our goal is to inspire excellence and expand access to higher education. We want every student to see a pathway to California’s colleges and universities, including community colleges, California State Universities, Universities of California, and private institutions. 

What to Expect

This free conference (formerly known as the César Chávez Youth Leadership Conference) welcomes over 1,500 attendees each year, many from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds. Participants leave feeling empowered, with a stronger sense of what’s possible and a clearer understanding of the resources available to help them reach their goals.