​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Rising Scholars Logo, Supporting the formerly incarcerated with transition back to the community. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Rising Scholars at Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education

Rising Scholars supports people who were formerly incarcerated or impacted by the justice system. We guide them on a path to higher education. Our goal is to help students succeed in school and life by meeting their academic and personal needs.
We aim to break the negative stigmas linked to incarceration. Rising Scholars offers a safe and welcoming place for students. Connect with others, and get the skills you need to succeed in college.
Students receive one-on-one help, group workshops, and links to school and community programs. Rising Scholars creates a place to share stories, stay motivated, and reach goals.​

Benefits of Joining Rising Scholars

-Personalized academic support from a dedicated counselor 
-Events and workshops that provide tools for success in higher education 
-Referrals to on- and off-campus services, including expungement clinics 
-Safe space on campus for community and support 
-A strong, supportive community of students with shared experiences 


Who Qualifies for Rising Scholars?

Formerly Incarcerated Individuals: 
Students who have been incarcerated​ and/or detained in a juvenile facility. 
System-Impacted Individuals: 
Students who have been arrested without conviction/incarceration, or those impacted by a family member's incarceration. 


Want to Learn More?

If you're interested in learning more or would like to join, please complete our interest form. A team member will reach out to you with more information.

Click here for the interest form for Project Rise at Santa Ana College

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WHat Do you Want to Do?

Co​ntact Us: 

risingscholars@sac.edu
Call the Continuing Education Counseling Office at (714) 241-5720 or (714) 564-6176
Ask for an appointment with Continuing Education Rising Scholars counselor Patricia Tejeda.


David Moreno-Guardado
David Moreno, Rising Scholars Program Coordinator
Rising Scholars Program Coordinator
📧moreno_david@sac.edu
📞714-241-5825​​
Office Hours: Monday - Wednesday, 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Virtual Office Hours: Thursday & Friday, 3:30 - 7:30 PM

Patricia Tejeda
Patricia Tejeda, Rising Scholars Counselor
Rising Scholars Counselor
📞​714-241-5720

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