Nonprofit to Reach Thousands of Students Across 25+ Middle and High Schools During 10th Annual Conference

SALINAS, CA / ACCESS Newswire / February 17, 2026 / The Avanza Network, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting higher education in underserved communities, will host its 10th Annual Conference in the Salinas Valley from February 18 - 22, 2026. Avanza presenters will be visiting with thousands of students throughout the Salinas Valley, as well as in surrounding parts of Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Avanza is pleased that dozens of its alumni volunteers will be able to share their personal journeys through higher education to professional success with students at more than 25 public middle and high schools that agreed to participate in this free program.

Avanza's outreach focuses on students in economically challenged areas, many of whom are the first in their families to consider college. Through classroom visits, assemblies, and interactive discussions, Avanza members aim to demystify higher education and inspire students to see college as an attainable goal.

"The Salinas Valley is home to incredible talent and resilience," said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, who is expected to attend and deliver remarks during the conference. "When students see people from communities like theirs succeed through education, it sends a powerful message: college is possible, and their futures are worth investing in."

Avanza has hosted conferences in cities across the United States and has reached thousands of students nationwide. This conference marks one of the organization's largest regional outreach efforts to date, reflecting Avanza's continued commitment to expanding educational opportunity in communities that need it most.

"In today's rapidly changing educational landscape, it's more important than ever for students to start preparing early and aiming high," said Dr. Ernesto Vela, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services in Monterey County. "These students have the talent, grit, and drive to succeed-we want to make sure they have the information, encouragement, and role models to help them get there."

As part of the conference, Avanza will also distribute copies of its Avanza book series, which features true stories from Avanza members describing their diverse paths to college and successful careers. The books are designed to serve as a lasting source of inspiration for students and educators alike.

Founded in 2011 by Mexican-American alumni of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and friends, Avanza Network is dedicated to empowering underserved communities through education. The organization works to increase awareness of the transformational power of a college degree, highlight diverse academic and career pathways-including STEAM fields-and support students throughout the college and professional development lifecycle.

For more information about Avanza Network and its outreach efforts, please visit www.avanzanetwork.org or follow Avanza on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Contact Information:

Rene Gonzalez
15128090863
info@avanzanetwork.org

SOURCE: Avanza Network