The Equity Convening: A Systemwide Gathering for Shared Alignment & Action

The Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges (WACTC) Equity Committee will host the first Equity Convening, which brings together equity leaders and practitioners from across Washington’s community and technical college system to align efforts, elevate practices, and strengthen collaboration. 

This inaugural gathering focuses on shared learning, strategic dialogue, and building a community of practice grounded in collective impact and responsibility. It will be held in The Ripple Space in Vancouver, Washington. 

Please refer to our latest AGENDA of the Systemwide Gathering for Shared Alignment & Action.

Date and Location

Date: August 16-17, 2026

Location: The Ripple Space
275 W 3rd St Ste 400
Vancouver, WA 98660

Attendees 

This invitation-only convening is designed for: 

  • Diversity Equity Officers Commission (DEOC)
  • Multicultural Student Services Directors Council (MSSDC)
  • SBCTC Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
  • Washington CTC American Indian Advisory Board
  • Multicultural Student Services Directors Council (MSSDC)
  • SBCTC Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
  • Washington CTC American Indian Advisory Board
  • Invited equity leaders and practitioners across the system 

Cost

  • No registration fee
  • Meals provided during the convening
  • Travel and hotel costs covered by attendees’ institutions

Hotel

A block of rooms at the Hilton Vancouver Washington is reserved at the state per diem rate for check-in on Sunday, August 16 and check-out on Tuesday, August 18.  

Hilton Vancouver Washington
301 W 6th Street
Vancouver, WA 98660

Tel: 360-993-4500

Planning Committee Members

Leadership Role Name College Title

Co-Chair

Iesha Valencia

Clover Park Technical College

Associate Vice President for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Co-Chair

Dr. Felix Braffith

WA SBCTC

Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Planning Committee Member

Dr. Maya Esquivido-Strom

WA SBCTC

Director of Tribal Government Affairs

Planning Committee Member

Melissa Williams

WA SBCTC

Policy Associate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Planning Committee Member (Administrative Assistant)

Courtnay Nguyen

WA SBCTC

Administrative Assistant

Planning Committee Member

Edwina Fui

Highline College

Director, Center for Cultural & Inclusive Excellence 

Planning Committee Member

Eduardo Torres

Edmonds College 

Associate Director