The staff are here to support the center and students connect to community and resources on campus.
Vanessa Varko-FontanaPhone: (510) 885-4786
Email: vanessa.varkofontana@csueastbay.edu
Vanessa is originally from Los Angeles county and has been in the Bay Area since 1999. As a first generation college student Vanessa have faced many challenges navigating through undergraduate, career growth, and returning to graduate school. She brings with her vast experience in youth development, community organizing, cultural student affairs, and collaborative leadership. She is excited to support students explore Latinx culture, community, academic support, and campus resources.
Class of: 2027
Major: Sociology
Hobbies: Arts & Crafts, Hikes, Watching Movies
Languages: Spanish, English
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
It means to be a spark of inspiration, a true representation for success. My goal is to show people from every background that their dreams are within reach and to motivate them to go out and achieve them. I hope to continue that by working at the Center ! <3
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
I'm looking forward to connecting with the Center this year! I love being on top of school work and knowing what resources are available, and I can't wait to share that knowledge to benefit my colleagues and our school. My goal is make this a space where everyone feels welcome, so we can make this the best year yet for all students.
Class of: 2027
Major: Civil Engineering w/ Minor in Environmental Studies
Hobbies: reading, listening to music, thrifting
Languages: English and Spanish
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
To me, being a Pioneer of color means being part of the representation for the current EastBay students and the next generation. This looks like partaking in our vibrant and diverse community as my authentic self, including my history, culture, and aspirations, as well as making space for others..
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
Working at the LSSC will allow me to put myself out there and connect with students on campus, creating those connections that will take me further in my personal and professional development. The LSSC serves as a place to find community and resources for all; therefore, I am honored to be a part of it.
Class of: 2026
Major: Communications
Hobbies: Music
Languages: English and Spanish
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
To be a Pioneer of color means I can influence and inspire younger people of color with the pursuit for higher education, like I once was.
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
Working in the Latinx center reminds me why I am pursuing higher education and what it means for other people of color to see someone like them engaged in their community.
Class of: 2025
Major: Psychology
Hobbies: Baking, Cooking, Drawing, watching some anime, reading mangas, music, and spending time with my pets.
Languages: Spanish and English.
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
The pioneer's color reminds me of the opportunity and effort we have shown to follow our dreams and pave our paths to success. Because everyone deserves the right to complete their goals and demonstrate that “Todo se puede en esta vida.”
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
Working in the center helps me to connect with personal and academic goals on challenging my success and connect with everyone who has or needs assistance. I can help students who need to be heard and give a good environment and the right assistance that is required. The LSSC goals are to connect everyone's roots and make them feel comfortable sharing their culture and beliefs.
Class of: 2026
Major: Anthropology
Hobbies: Table Top Games; Watching movies and discussing them
Languages:
English, Intermediate Spanish and a plethora of other key phrases in multiple languages (i.e. Hello/Please/Thank You) in several different languages
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
Being a Pioneer of Color means carrying the strength of my community and making sure every culture has a safe place to be themselves.
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
Working at the centers helps me connect with others and learn from their cultures, which strengthens my journey as an aspiring Anthropologist.
Class of: 2026
Major: Criminal Justice
Hobbies: Drag, Ballroom Vogue, Makeup
Languages: English and Spanish
What does it mean to be a Pioneer of color?
To me, being a Pioneer of color at the LSSC means being someone who helps create space for students like me, students who might not always see themselves represented or feel fully supported in academic spaces. It’s about showing up, being proud of who I am, and using my experiences to support others.
How does working with the Center connect with your personal and academic goals?
Working with the LSSC supports my academic and personal growth. It helps me become a better communicator, support other students, and stay engaged with my own learning. I’m also using this experience to explore my identity and learn more about the diversity within the Latinx community. It’s a space where I can grow, give back, and better understand both myself and others.