<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[FuturoPro V1]]></title><description><![CDATA[MyCircleofChampions]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:39:31 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.circleofchampions.org/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[Beyond the Classroom: Building Your Circle for Life]]></title><description><![CDATA[The idea of creating a support network may not be entirely unique, however it is something that many of us often take for granted. Do we have our own support network to celebrate our wins, even after completing our academic journey? Do we take time to celebrate our own small achievements in life?  In today's clip from our interview with Jourjina Alkhouri, a professor of biology at Merced College, reflects on her own journey and how the idea behind My Circle of Champions can be applied to our...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/beyond-the-classroom-building-your-circle-for-life</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69ea91d9ab5395dde6099ae2</guid><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:41:33 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://www.youtube.com/shorts/XyoHZu4zlfw" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Beyond the Assignment: Building Support That Lasts]]></title><description><![CDATA[When recalling her observations during the first semester, Jourjina’s students were enthusiastically interacting with each other on the platform and in the classroom. As the semester progressed and the final “assignment” was given, students were still engaging and supporting each other beyond the classroom. She concludes that it made a difference in how they not only viewed each other, but also how they supported each other. My Circle of Champions aims to create a space where students can...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/beyond-the-assignment-building-support-that-lasts</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69d42997072d140cb95c817f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 23:30:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://youtube.com/shorts/5lUy5U0xzl0?si=4PFA2zLPyTPGuamC" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Job Opening]]></title><description><![CDATA[FirstGen America (FGA) Part-Time Remote Executive Assistant Part-Time Remote Admin (Grants &#38; Operations Support)  Location: Remote (must have some availability during PST work hours) Position Type: Part-Time (15–25 hours/week, flexible) Reports To: President / Leadership Team About FirstGen America (FGA) FirstGen America (FGA) is a nonprofit organization focused on expanding opportunity and support for first-generation and historically underserved students, particularly within community...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/job-opening</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69cef8b92a4608ae001dd675</guid><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:19:13 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/8a0f3c_5b4bfe7634db4de7a620793f67499f0a~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Expanding Opportunity Across California]]></title><description><![CDATA[Circle of Champion is honored to receive a College Future Foundations Grant to advance economic mobility for adult learners across California. This work will be led by a partnership including Gavilan College, WestEd’s Economic Mobility team, JourneyGPS, and FirstGen America. Together, we’re building approaches that are grounded in practice, equity, and real student experiences. We appreciate College Futures Foundation and Jobs for the Future for the vision, partnership, and commitment to...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/expanding-opportunity-across-california</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69c1b9818fe05188d48acee1</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:28:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/318ad0_034ea3562fb0441eb15ec79c2e60a3d5~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_628,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Champion Advice : How Champions Help Students Stay Supported]]></title><description><![CDATA[Champions play an important role in a student’s journey, but support looks different for every student. Each month, we share reminders and practices to help Champions support their students in ways that are thoughtful, respectful, and student centered support. In this week’s message; Nancy Mora, our Champion Success Coordinator, provided some insightful material for our champions to feel better equipped when supporting their students. These materials focus on Equity, Wellness and Basic Needs...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/champion-advice-how-champions-help-students-stay-supported</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69b81bded0d0f65ae6c1ada9</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:04:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Support Is Not a Last Resort, It Is a Strength]]></title><description><![CDATA[This week’s student reflection highlights an important shift: Asking for help is not a last resort, it is a strength. After completing the Circle of Champions assignment, one student shared that their perspective changed. At the beginning of the quarter, they believed support was something you seek only in emergencies. Through reflection, they began to see that community is not just there for difficult moments, but is an essential part of growth. “Thinking about the different ‘champions’ in...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/champion-advice-support-is-not-a-last-resort-it-is-a-strength</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69af7de20c1a368a2fa51143</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:11:59 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Champions Among Peers]]></title><description><![CDATA[Jourjina Alkhouri initially thought the students in her biology class would search for champions outside of the classroom. But when the idea was brought up to her that champions could be peers, she gave it a second thought. She was in awe of how quickly students embraced their secondary role as champions for each other. Shared experiences and understandings fostered quick, but meaningful connections. As Jourjina soon realized, “Who is more going to know about what you’re going through your...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/champions-among-peers</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69ab80197fac2e2861ff55b1</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 01:32:11 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://video.wixstatic.com/video/318ad0_9f1fe5ee47054ff898bf4925be504e75/1080p/mp4/file.mp4" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Womens History Month]]></title><description><![CDATA[At My Circle of Champions, we see the impact of women every day. They show up as Champions, faculty, mothers, sisters, mentors, and community leaders. They also show up as students committed to their education, balancing responsibilities, overcoming barriers, and continuing to pursue their goals with determination and resilience. For many students, the encouragement of a mother, professor, mentor, or friend helps transform doubt into confidence. At the same time, the women enrolled in our...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/womens-history-month</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a5f84b60298c02e5c05135</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:02:32 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/318ad0_65f377909401455d88054b202de877a5~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Champion Advice : How to Approach Money]]></title><description><![CDATA[Champions play an important role in a student’s journey, but support looks different for every student. Each month, we share reminders and practices to help Champions support their students in ways that are thoughtful, respectful, and student centered support. This month, Nancy, our Champion Success Coordinator, shared guidance on budgeting and how to approach conversations about money with students. Learning how to manage expenses is an important part of helping students make informed...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/champion-advice-how-to-approach-money</link><guid isPermaLink="false">699cd5b093dc5be36fd5cf45</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:34:13 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Faculty Perspective: Fostering Connection in the Classroom]]></title><description><![CDATA[Today we are sharing some words from faculty member Jourjina Alkhouri, a Biology professor at Merced College. In today’s clip, she discusses her introduction to her first semester integrating the platform into her courses. She noticed a major shift in students being more engaged with each other in the classroom and highlighted the comfort they had with sharing updates, achievements, and the small victories that can add up to big success over time. These are some of the key components within...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/faculty-perspective-fostering-connection-in-the-classroom</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6998f9ade493abd05ea9e101</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 06:05:36 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://video.wixstatic.com/video/318ad0_9e7c44c56b4a42ed8b0a39253aa1ef69/1080p/mp4/file.mp4" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Celebrating Student's Victories]]></title><description><![CDATA[Nominating your Champions for your Circle can seem like a daunting task, however, keep in mind - you’re in the driver seat! As your journey takes shape and may change course, so can your Circle! As close to our discussion, Leticia shed some light on some reservations that students may experience when nominating their Champions and building their Circle. Your Circle should not just support you, but uplift and celebrate your victories with you. Every connection no matter from where or how it...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/celebrating-student-s-victories</link><guid isPermaLink="false">698e26c0636516a31670ac16</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:15:28 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://video.wixstatic.com/video/318ad0_7e15d0895d48492a82d2062632984382/1080p/mp4/file.mp4" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shifting Student's Perspectives]]></title><description><![CDATA[At My Circle of Champions, we highlight student reflections that show how the program is shaping their experience and sense of support by centering student voices. This month’s reflection comes from a student who shared that asking for help once felt uncomfortable and even embarrassing. They often felt they had to figure things out on their own, despite knowing support was available. Through My Circle of Champions, that perspective shifted. The student shared that learning it’s okay to ask...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/shifting-student-s-perspectives</link><guid isPermaLink="false">698b83ed41590511a34714d8</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:17:08 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Champion Advice : Support Services]]></title><description><![CDATA[Once a month we at My Circle of Champions wanted to give advice to our champions, we realize that sometimes we also need help and learn how to be supportive. Being a Champion doesn’t mean having all the answers. What matters most is showing up, listening, and helping your student remember they are not navigating college alone. Each month, we share practical guidance to help Champions support their students in ways that stay student-centered and realistic. Many new college students don’t know...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/champion-advice-support-services</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69840ade9b806d1e11041489</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:18:51 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Black History Month]]></title><description><![CDATA[Demonstrated throughout history, it is our heritage, our background and our identities that guide us in everyday life with the lessons learned from our peers, mentors, family, and others we hold dear. My Circle of Champions recognizes and celebrates the pivotal and integral influence of Black culture and history that is embedded in US history and culture. This month serves as a reminder to honor Black history not only through reflection, but through continued recognition, respect, and support...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/black-history-month</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69810d7c889819a51f0530cf</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:07:42 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/318ad0_ee4c33c913e2406587466a5eaf1c0aa7~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bringing Who You Are Into Your Academic Journey]]></title><description><![CDATA[During our conversation with Leticia Palacios, we asked her what her thoughts on the concept of My Circle of Champions, and what she feels it can provide for students who are struggling.  Each student has their own support network built from the love, care and guidance whom they may already consider mentors throughout other aspects of their life outside of their academic journey. Those meaningful - impactful connections are at the core of our concept. Not a trajectory change, but bringing who...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/bringing-who-you-are-into-your-academic-journey</link><guid isPermaLink="false">697c3e87afd4a3da350bc8e8</guid><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:15:53 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://video.wixstatic.com/video/318ad0_082e8ab6115c47d1b4284c629feda929/1080p/mp4/file.mp4" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Reminders of What You Have]]></title><description><![CDATA[This week, we’re sharing a student reflection that highlights the importance of community, reflection, and long term perspective. The student shared that participating in the Circle of Champions reinforced their belief in asking for help and staying connected to their support system. As they shared, “The best part of the Circle of Champions project was just being reminded to talk to my family more. I have such a great support system and being reminded to take advantage of that system was...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/reminders-of-what-you-have</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6979692a67f9308d297256c3</guid><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:41:14 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Martin Luther King Jr. Day]]></title><description><![CDATA[Today, My Circle of Champions honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his enduring commitment to justice, equity, and collective responsibility. Dr. King’s work reminds us that meaningful progress is rooted in community and sustained by courage. At My Circle of Champions, we believe that student success is strengthened when individuals are supported by trusted networks of care, advocacy, and accountability. Our commitment to equity recognizes that students begin their...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/martin-luther-king-jr-day</link><guid isPermaLink="false">696e99eaef9d90695c0c6057</guid><pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 20:54:08 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Understanding the Student Experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[My Circle of Champions sat down with Leticia Palacios, a general education counselor at Gavilan College and asked - "What challenges do students have starting college?“ There are many factors that can play into a student's first experience when entering college, however the consensus is clear you are not alone in feeling confused! Things are always changing and navigating life events can be difficult, but this experience is not a solitary one and we can still learn from those around us....]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/understanding-the-student-experience</link><guid isPermaLink="false">696974da44e01db33aff6950</guid><pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 23:15:07 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="http://video.wixstatic.com/video/318ad0_eef3138c0cb44297b22f17eaad8a0bc7/1080p/mp4/file.mp4" length="0" type="video"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Highlighting: Student's Voices]]></title><description><![CDATA[At My Circle of Champions we want to highlight our students comments that reflect how My Circle of Champions is shaping their experience and sense of support by recognizing our student’s voices! This reflection comes from a student who shared that at the beginning of the semester, they didn’t always feel comfortable asking for help and often felt like they had to figure things out on their own. Through participating in My Circle of Champions, that perspective shifted seeing how many people...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/highlighting-student-s-voices</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69654498f5c800c96656675f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:00:32 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Happy New Year from My Circle of Champions]]></title><description><![CDATA[As we step into the new year, we are excited to share more of the work happening across our community and the people at the heart of it. In the months ahead, we will be creating more content that highlights real stories and real impact, including  • Students and their journeys  • Champions who show up with care and commitment  • Faculty and staff helping create stronger pathways  • Accomplishments worth celebrating • Honest reflections on how we can continue to grow and improve Our goal is...]]></description><link>https://www.mycircleofchampions.com/post/happy-new-year-from-my-circle-of-champions</link><guid isPermaLink="false">695c2e3e6b2f1f57b2880513</guid><pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 21:36:04 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/318ad0_d3b50140ec204a7bb621ddff638d5323~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bryan Reece</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>