2025/26 NOCE Student Trustee Election

My name is Yellckin Brenes, and I am a proud first-generation immigrant from Nicaragua. Since moving to California in 2021, I have faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language with resilience and purpose. NOCE has been a life-changing part of my journey. I found support, direction, and a sense of belonging through its inclusive and empowering environment. With guidance from dedicated instructors and staff, I completed the ESL program, began technical career training, and took the next step toward higher education at Cypress College. The core values of NOCE—equity, compassion, and student success—are deeply personal to me. They’ve shaped my growth and inspired my desire to give back. As a candidate for the Trustee position, my mission is to advocate for students working hard to overcome personal, academic, or systemic barriers. I will strive to amplify student voices, improve access to resources, and foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to thrive. I believe my lived experience, strong commitment to service, and deep connection to the NOCE community make me a powerful representative for our diverse student body. I’m ready to serve with purpose and heart.

My name is MaLuisa Hernandez—a proud working student, mother of three, and current student leader at North Orange Continuing Education. I recently earned my Google IT Certification and am pursuing my high school diploma while taking college-level courses in Business Law and Entrepreneurship. To me, NOCE is more than a school—it’s a lifeline. It represents healing, growth, and the power to rise above trauma, depression, and life’s challenges through education. As an immigrant and a voice for underrepresented communities, I advocate for those balancing full-time work, parenthood, and the courage to pursue their dreams. If elected as your Student Trustee, I will ensure your voice is heard and your needs are brought forward. I believe every student deserves to feel seen, included, and supported in a safe and diverse space. I understand the obstacles many of us face, and I will not hesitate to speak up for our rights and resources.

My name is Kristine Nacu, and I am the best candidate for being the second NOCE Student Trustee. As a third-year Student Leader and the current President of the Christian Students Club, I am deeply committed to supporting and uplifting our diverse student community through leadership, faith, and service. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working alongside incredible student leaders, including Robert Johnson, our first-ever Student Trustee. Inspired by his commitment to advocacy and representation, I am ready to continue the meaningful work he began; ensuring that the power of the Student Trustee will remain high in presenting the student’s voice. Through serving on various campus committees, organizing events, volunteering, and building connections with faculty and staff, I have gained valuable experience that I will bring to the Board of Trustees. Guided by NOCE’s mission and values of Diversity, Equity, and Learning, I will strive to create an inclusive, welcoming space where every student feels heard, respected, loved, and empowered. Student Trustee bridges students and leadership through representation. I believe in open communication, compassionate listening, and responsible stewardship. It would be my honor to serve as your next Student Trustee.