Nuestra familia es su familia
If you ask our students about Chicano Student Programs, the first thing they will tell you is that we are one big family. Our caring staff supports UCR’s Chicano/Latino community or those who are interested in the Chicano/Latino experience, history, or culture with incredible programs and resources. Our faculty’s research and experiences speak to issues about La Raza, and provide priceless networking and mentorship opportunities. Our shared goals and values make the Common Ground Collective a strong branch of our family tree. Our student organizations are some of our most inspirational family members. Contact us any time. You are part of our family, too.
Professional Staff
Chicano Student Programs
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Meet Our Staff
Estella Acuña, Director
Serving the campus since 1996
Phone: (951) 827-3822
Email: Estella Acuna
I joined the Chicano Student Programs staff in 1996 and, in a span of seven years, went from being the student assistant to the program director.
After high school, I attended Riverside Community College, where I received my associate degree. I then transferred to UCR, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Chicano studies. I am the first in my family to attend college.
I truly enjoy my job; it is absolutely my dream job. I enjoy working with the students, faculty, and staff. My involvement, mentors, and studies have inspired me to give back to the community and try to make a difference. I grew up in a single-family household. My mom’s values, survival, and love for her children have also influenced my life. Tune in to KUCR 88.3 FM on Friday nights, and you might hear a familiar voice. ¡Adelante
Bibiana Canales, Program Coordinator
Serving the campus since 2019
Phone: (951) 827-2216
Email: Bibiana Canales
Bibiana Canales (she/they), a first-generation Chicanx student, found a home and familia at Chicano Student Programs during their first year as an undergraduate student. As an undergrad, they were the Student Program Coordinator at CSP for three years, and now serve as Program Coordinator after graduating in 2022. They received their B.A. in Ethnic Studies, B.S. in Sustainability Studies and minor in Labor Studies.
While at UCR, they organized with non-profit and community organizations whose aim was to amplify the voices of formerly incarcerated and system-impacted people, as well as coalitions centered around environmental justice in the I.E. They were a co-researcher in the Encuentros, Student Participatory Action Research, and Testimonios (ESPARiTU) project where they focused on recovering some of the origins and evolution of Chicano/Latino student organizing at UCR. They are passionate about preserving our memories and histories as an act of love. They are dedicated to continuing to grow through community based resource centers in honor of their loved ones and those who did not have the opportunity to consider higher education due to lack of socio-cultural, economic and academic support.
You Belong at UCR
All programs, services, and events offered through Student Affairs are open to everyone, consistent with federal and state law and the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Whether you’re seeking support, joining a community, or participating in campus life, every effort is made to ensure your experience is inclusive, respectful, and accessible, regardless of background or identity.
To learn more, visit the UC Nondiscrimination Statement or the Nondiscrimination Policy Statement for University of California Publications Regarding Student-Related Matters.