Student leaders at Citrus College foster community, drive change

By Laura J. Bollinger, Citrus College Governing Board Member

Hamza El Lahib's decision to join student government at Citrus College was spontaneous.

After graduating early from Claremont High School – while simultaneously finishing his first year of college, thanks to dual enrollment – he overheard a classmate talking about the Associated Students of Citrus College (ASCC).

"I've always had a desire to be active in local government," Hamza said. "Once I heard more about ASCC, I knew attending college meetings and representing student interests was the type of civic engagement I had always been interested in."

He soon made a decision that would shape his college experience: he ran for office.

When Hamza was elected to serve as an ASCC senator for the 2024-2025 academic year, he gained valuable insight into the important role student government plays on campus. With roots dating back to at least the 1950s, the college's student leadership body has a longstanding tradition of advocacy. Representatives on the ASCC Executive Board support student interests, coordinate campus activities, and build bridges between students and the college's administration.

As a senator, Hamza had the opportunity to work alongside other dedicated student leaders who are passionate about serving the campus community. With 19 available positions, ASCC board participation can be tailored to each student's strengths and passions. Whether filling elected positions, like senator or president, or appointed roles, like commissioner of public relations or commissioner of activities, each individual works to ensure that student voices are part of the decision-making process.

Like the majority of student government organizations throughout California, ASCC follows the requirements of the Brown Act and the California Education Code, as well as applicable federal and state laws. The board is also guided by a constitution that outlines its roles, responsibilities and processes. Following these guidelines, board members meet biweekly to ensure that student needs are met.

The ASCC is represented on 27 shared governance committees, and Hamza served on the college's Steering Committee, Academic Senate and Educational Programs Committee during his tenure. This allowed him to speak up for students in campus-wide decisions. At the same time, ASCC board members plan and execute educational and social activities, including cultural celebrations and community-building events, which are open to all students.

By getting involved in student government, students unlock a world of opportunities that enhance their college experience. ASCC prepares students for the future by helping them develop leadership, time management, communication and organizational skills. It also teaches them conflict resolution, provides budgeting experience and increases their confidence. This impact is perhaps best illustrated by the experiences of students like Hamza, who have seen firsthand the transformative power of student government.

"When I was initially elected, I wasn't sure how big of a difference I could actually make. I realized, over time, that it's not so much about changing everything, but more about contributing to long-term, thoughtful and persistent efforts," Hamza said. "This has become something that I have internalized. It is a mindset that has helped me grow personally and as a leader."

Today, Hamza is majoring in political science at UCLA. He aims to earn a doctorate and pursue a career in education."

"I want to be a social sciences instructor teaching at the high-school level," he said. "Having had great instructors throughout my life who made me a better person inspires me to be that person for others."

As Claremont's representative on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, I'm honored to witness the exceptional work of our student leaders each year. I'm particularly proud of Hamza and other Claremont High School graduates who complete their Citrus College education and bring their talents, skills, and passion back to our community.

Growing up in a community where civic engagement and activism are deeply valued, I'm sure Claremont's spirit of involvement has influenced Hamza's path, inspiring him and other young people to follow in the footsteps of a community proud of its political engagement. Through student organizations like ASCC, I'm confident that Citrus College will continue to positively impact our region for generations to come.