IMPORTANT UPDATE: The Student Equity & Pirates' Promise office has moved to the John R. Clark Center RM 104 (campus map #73).
Student Equity at Orange Coast College is dedicated to creating an equitable and supportive environment where all students, especially those from disproportionately impacted communities, can thrive.
Student Equity works with programs to support students by offering essential resources, peer-driven workshops, and faculty-supported programming. Through this collaborative work, Student Equity aims to remove systemic barriers, foster belonging, and equip students with the skills and opportunities necessary for success in college and beyond.
Contact Us
Office Hours
Fall 2025 Hours
Mon to Thurs, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sat & Sun, Closed
Lupe Tinoco Oliveros (She/Ella)
Equity & Pirates' Promise Specialist
I began my educational journey at Humboldt State University (B.A. in Sociology and Critical Race, Gender, and Sexuality Studies) and ended at Cal State, Fullerton with my masterrs in Higher Education. This work is so meaningful to me because I am the first person in my family to graduate collegee and I wouldn't be where I am without the individuals and equity-focused programs that supported me along the way. I feel so honored to be in a position where I can pay that forward and support students to achieve their personal, educational, and career goals. In my free time, I like to dive into a good book, catch up on shows and movies, and spend time with friends and family.
Cynthia Chavez (She/Ella)
Pirates' Promise Program Specialist
Hello! My name is Cynthia Chavez, and I lead the Pirates’ Promise Program at Orange Coast College (OCC). With a strong commitment to advancing equity in education, I oversee initiatives that support the retention and success of students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. As a first-generation college graduate, I understand firsthand the challenges students face, and I'm passionate about creating pathways for them to navigate higher education with confidence and a sense of belonging.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chicano/a Studies with a minor in Education from UC Santa Barbara, where I graduated with Dean’s Honors. I continued my journey at California State University, Fullerton, earning a Master of Science in Higher Education. I am dedicated to data-informed approaches, using assessment and analysis to continually improve the effectiveness of our support program, aiming for measurable outcomes in retention and graduation rates.
When I’m not on campus, you can find me baking, playing animal crossing, and hanging out with my pets, Rocky and Mocha. I’m an avid traveler and love all things coffee!