Priscila de Franca Moreira Named 2025 Student Leadership Award

For Immediate Release

SACRAMENTO, California — Driven by a desire to bring greater representation to student government and remove systemic barriers to civic participation, Priscila de Franca Moreira, Associated Student Government (ASG) President at Mission College, has been honored as one of three recipients of the 2025 California Community Colleges Student Leadership Award.

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The annual award, presented by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, recognizes student leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to equity, advocacy, and service. Each recipient receives a $1,250 scholarship and a commemorative certificate in recognition of their leadership and impact.

Moreira, a non-traditional student, has used her time in student government to advocate for inclusive policies, elevate underrepresented voices, and turn personal passions into lasting campus change.

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Civic Engagement Plan

Civic engagement became a major focus of her work after encountering Mission College’s Civic Engagement Plan. As she grew more aware of the systemic challenges students face, her commitment to the issue deepened.

“I recognized the systemic disparities that make it harder for some students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to participate in civic life,” she said. “I realized that if we wanted more inclusive democratic participation, we had to meet students where they were and build intentional pathways for involvement.”

Her leadership extends well beyond the campus. Moreira has interned in the office of Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, served as a political data manager with We Vote, participated in the League of Women Voters, and worked as a research assistant at Stanford University, analyzing election data to inform policy recommendations. She is also a committed environmental advocate, bringing her personal values into tangible, campus-wide action.

“Sustainability has always been a personal passion of mine, and I found purpose in translating that into action on campus,” she explained. “I founded the Sustainable Garden Club with another student to raise awareness around environmental responsibility. To me, sustainability means more than just protecting the environment - it’s about creating long-term, inclusive systems that support both people and the planet.”

Among her proudest accomplishments was organizing the Basic Needs Drive, which provided jackets, blankets, socks, and hygiene items for students experiencing housing and food insecurity.

“I believe this initiative will leave a lasting impact on ASG’s culture by reinforcing the importance of compassion, action, and community care,” Moreira said. “We wanted to make sure no student felt forgotten or invisible - and that their well-being was a shared responsibility.”

Looking forward, Moreira plans to transfer to a four-year university and major in Political Science with a concentration in Public Policy, continuing her work at the intersection of civic engagement and equity.

“My future plans are to continue advocating for equity and civic engagement, both through my education and my career,” she said. “I plan to transfer to a university to major in Political Science with a concentration in Public Policy and eventually work in a role where I can influence policies that create more inclusive systems - whether that's through government, nonprofit work, or public service."

Moreira embodies the principles of leadership, academic excellence, and civic engagement that the California Community Colleges Board of Governors seeks to recognize, said Connor Keese, Mission Director of Outreach and Student Life.

"Her unwavering dedication to student advocacy, sustainability, and political involvement make her a truly deserving candidate for the Student Leadership Award," he said.

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]