The Spring 2026 Comprehensive Program Review (CPR) Share-Out provided Skyline College with an opportunity to celebrate the work of programs across campus, reflect on key outcomes, and engage in meaningful dialogue about student support, growth, and collaboration. Among the featured presentations was the Guardian Scholars and NextUp share-out, which highlighted the continued impact these programs have on current and former foster youth at Skyline College.
During the poster session, Jose Milan and Karmann Robbins led the presentation of seven years of program data, showcasing key trends, accomplishments, and areas for continued growth within Guardian Scholars and NextUp. Their work told a compelling story of how the programs have strengthened student support, expanded services, and remained grounded in equity-centered practices that address the complex needs of the students they serve. Karmann Robbins also played an integral role behind the scenes, ensuring that the CPR presentation accurately reflected the depth, progress, and evolution of the programs over time.
Jose Cartagena (Retention Specialist) further supported the share-out by engaging with attendees at the program table—answering questions, offering additional insight, and contributing to meaningful conversations about program impact. These interactions provided visitors with a deeper understanding of how Guardian Scholars and NextUp support students through relationship-centered case management, academic guidance, basic needs assistance, and intentional community building.
While Marlboro (Bo) Aleonor, NextUp, and Guardian Scholars Program counselor, was unable to attend, his presence was deeply felt. His energy, leadership, and contributions have been instrumental in shaping and advancing the programs over the past several years, and his impact was reflected throughout the presentation.
The CPR share-out highlighted several accomplishments from the past seven years, including strengthened student support and retention practices, increased student engagement, enhanced coordination with campus and community partners, and the continued expansion of services through NextUp. The presentation also underscored the programs’ holistic approach to student support—offering counseling, academic planning, transportation assistance, book support, and other essential resources that help students persist and succeed.
Just as importantly, the event created space for the Skyline College community to learn more about the unique experiences of Guardian Scholars and NextUp students, as well as the importance of responsive, equity-minded programming. By sharing both successes and areas for continued improvement, the team reinforced the value of collaboration and collective responsibility in advancing student success.
The Guardian Scholars and NextUp CPR share-out stood as a strong example of the thoughtful, student-centered work taking place across Skyline College. It not only celebrated progress but also affirmed the programs’ ongoing commitment to fostering belonging, persistence, and opportunity for some of the college’s most resilient students.
Article by: Jose Cartagena
