Twelve Rancho Cordova high school students, along with other students from across the region, are back home after spending a powerful, inspiring week touring Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the South. Led by the United College Action Network (U-CAN), the weeklong college tour gave students a firsthand look at nine campuses in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana—and left them with memories and motivation that will last a lifetime. The City of Rancho Cordova proudly sponsored 10 of the participating students, helping make this transformative experience possible.
The students from Cordova High School were selected through a thoughtful application process coordinated in partnership with school counselors. Accompanied by three dedicated chaperones, the students joined peers from across the region for an immersive experience designed to build college readiness, cultural pride, and personal growth.
The journey kicked off in Atlanta, where students explored the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Morehouse College—experiencing the deep connection between the civil rights movement and HBCUs. Over the course of the trip, they toured campuses including Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Tuskegee University, Alabama State University, Jackson State, Dillard University, and Xavier University.
A standout moment for all 12 of the Rancho Cordova students was receiving on-the-spot college acceptances during some of the campus visits. Meeting directly with admissions staff gave students the chance to ask questions, share their goals, and walk away with more than just inspiration—some walked away with college acceptance letters in hand. For many, it was a life-changing milestone made possible by this tour.
Beyond the college tours, students visited the National Museum for Peace and Justice in Montgomery and participated in a Juneteenth celebration in Mississippi. Each day closed with journaling and reflection, giving students time to process what they saw and how it connects to their own goals and identities.
“We believe in our young people and in their potential to lead, achieve, and shape the future,” said Rancho Cordova Vice Mayor Garret Gatewood. “Supporting experiences like this helps students envision college as not just a possibility, but a path they’re ready to walk.”
To learn more about the United College Action Network, visit www.ucangotocollege.org.
