MESA program logo featuring stylized buildings transitioning into pixelated squares beside the word MESA in bold red letters and Citrus College in gray

College launches program to empower STEM majors

Starting this fall, students pursuing calculus-based STEM majors at Citrus College will have access to a new support initiative offering academic assistance, community-building opportunities and career exploration.

Funded through a grant from the California Community College Chancellor's Office, the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program will focus on serving first-generation college students who demonstrate financial need and plan to transfer to a four-year institution.

"We are excited to launch the MESA program and offer more support to STEM students," said Dr. My Chau, director of grants. "In collaboration with our existing programs, MESA will create meaningful opportunities for students to connect with peers, maximize college resources and provide valuable exposure to diverse career pathways."

Launched at a Bay Area high school in 1970, the program began with the goal of increasing the number of minority students graduating from undergraduate engineering programs. Since then, it has expanded to serve nearly 25,000 middle school, high school, community college and university students annually. Through a network of academic, career and personal support services, MESA will give Citrus College students the tools, resources and guidance needed to achieve transfer success and accomplish their educational goals.

MESA will be located in the STEM Center.

This article originally appeared in the June 2026 edition of the Citrus View.