The Circle of Change Leadership Experience is an ‘award-winning’ national leadership and career development experience designed to prepare traditional, non-traditional, and first-generation students for leadership success in college and beyond.
Over the past 16 years, this transformational experience has impacted more than 15,000 students, helping them graduate from college and thrive as professionals making meaningful contributions in their fields.
Students who attend the Circle of Change Leadership Experience participate in a three-day immersive journey featuring dynamic keynote speakers, powerful empowerment sessions, and engaging leadership activities; all focused on helping them unlock their leadership potential and develop the skills needed to succeed professionally.
Attendees will also take part in interactive panels and experiential sessions led by top-tier professionals from global organizations.
Join us in Los Angeles, California, from November 20–23, 2025, for the 16th Annual Circle of Change Leadership Experience. Explore the site to learn more about this powerful opportunity for emerging student leaders.
Reyna Harvey
U.C. Riverside, Class of 2017
As a Traffic and News Anchor in the Bay Area, Reyna credits the Circle of Change conference with helping her develop the skills and connections that fueled her career in journalism. Recognized as a Catalyst for Change, Reyna continues to inspire others through her work.
Tristan Henriquez
University of North Texas, Class of 2019
A first-generation college graduate and Circle of Change alumnus, Tristan leveraged the wisdom and connections gained at the conference to secure roles at top companies including Google, Viacom, YouTube, and Netflix, where he now works as a Product Strategy Associate.
Sparsh Saxena
Penn State University, Class of 2018
Sparsh, a Circle of Change alumnus, embraced the educational opportunities and inspiration provided by the conference to launch a successful career. He now serves as a Product Manager at Microsoft, driving innovation and impact.
Lakysha Bloem
California State University of Long Beach, Class of 2018
With the confidence and strategies gained from the conference, Lakysha broke into the competitive entertainment industry and now leads as a Digital Creative at Lionsgate, paving the way for future leaders in her field.
Saeed Ahmad
Norco College, Class of 2018
Drawing on lessons from the Circle of Change conference, Saeed completed his degree at UCLA and was admitted to Harvard Law School. He now serves as a Student Admissions Fellow, helping others achieve their academic dreams.
Jazmin Eusebio
San Jose State University, Class of 2018
Jazmin’s role as Diversity, Equity, and Belonging Manager at Highwire was made possible through the skills and recognition she gained at the conference. She continues to champion inclusivity and professional success.
DR. TYSON BEALE, DEAN OF STUDENTS
The COC Leadership Conference made an incredible impact on our students! Conference speakers and session facilitators were thought – provoking, skilled and provided practical strategies and resources for all attendees. Since our initial partnership with Dr. Fredenburg and his team, our students have enthusiastically shared their COC experiences with others and continue to excel on campus.
DAMAREA PARKER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Circle of Change has impacted thousands of first-generation students around the world, and within my years in higher education at CSUSB, CSULA, SJSU, CSUF, and USC, the students come back transformed and with a new mindset focused on making an impact in their communities.
DR. TRACY PASQUA DEA, SCHOOL OF JOURNALISM STUDENT SERVICES
Circle of Change gave an opportunity for our first gen students to see and hear from leaders who looked like them and had shared experiences as them. COCLC inspired our students that anything is possible and that they have the power within themselves, now, to achieve great things for themselves and for their community to advance positive change.
DR. MARK HARTLEY, DEAN OF STUDENT LIFE
Working at a California Community College, I see first-hand the powerful and life-changing difference Circle of Change makes in the lives of my students…especially first-generation college students. These students return empowered, self-confident, and with a plan of action to achieve their career goals. COC is a difference-maker!
The 16th Annual Circle of Change Leadership Conference will take place at the California State University, Dominguez Hills from Thursday, November 20, 2025 through Saturday, November 22, 2025.
On Sunday, November 23, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the best of Southern California with fellow emerging leaders. Optional activities include visits to Disneyland, Universal Studios, or attending a professional sports game featuring the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, Rams, or Chargers.
Please note: All costs associated with Sunday activities are the responsibility of each attending college or university.
Ready to join a life-changing weekend of leadership, career, and professional development?
Click the button above to register for the 2025 Circle of Change Leadership Experience in Los Angeles, California.
