Articles

HCC Southeast and AVANCE-Houston Launch AVANCE to College

Dec 11, 2025

The HCC and AVANCE-Houston collaboration highlights a shared commitment to creating opportunities for lifelong learning and success, bringing together community leaders, board members, students and HCC Southeast leadership to strengthen pathways for achievement. (Pictured left to right): John Cisneros, HCC Southeast President's advisory committee member; Bob McAllister, Ph.D., former AVANCE-Housto Pictured from left to right: John Cisneros, HCC Southeast President's advisory committee member; Bob McAllister, Ph.D., former AVANCE-Houston board member; Anna Lisa Williford, director, AVANCE for College; AVANCE-Houston students; Frances Villagran-Glover, D.A., HCC Southeast president; Luz Flores, executive director, AVANCE-Houston; Claudia Ortega Hogue, AVANCE-Houston board member; more AVANCE students; Edna Navarro, professor, HCC Southeast; HCC student; and Alberto Urbina, Ed.D., vice president, Instruction and Student Services at HCC Southeast.

Houston City College (HCC) Southeast has joined forces with AVANCE-Houston to launch the inaugural AVANCE to College, an education and career development program that helps parents of young children pursue higher education while strengthening their parenting and leadership skills.

Across the nation, nearly one in five college students is a parent, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Many face barriers, such as limited childcare access and financial constraints, leading to lower graduation rates compared with non-parenting students. The AVANCE to College initiative addresses these challenges head-on—aligning with Texas House Bill 1361, enacted by the 88th Texas Legislature, which calls on public colleges and universities to develop policies and support systems for student parents.

A mural painted by HCC Southeast Alum Mark DeLeon in the Family Room symbolizes the transformative power of education and the promise of brighter futures. This artwork complements the HCC Southeast and AVANCE-Houston partnership, serving as an inspiring reminder of the impact that education and community support have on families and future generations. “This program demonstrates what’s possible when nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions come together with purpose,” said Luz E. Flores, executive director of AVANCE-Houston. “Together, we are opening doors many families never imagined possible, celebrating the resilience and dreams of parents—walking with them on a journey to college and beyond.

HCC Southeast President Frances Villagran-Glover, D.A., emphasized the intergenerational impact at the heart of the partnership.

“Education has the power to transform not just individuals, but entire families,” she said. “When parents pursue higher learning, they model the value of education for their children. That ripple effect strengthens families, neighborhoods, and the future of our city.”

Tailored for parents of children five and younger, including expecting parents, AVANCE to College blends parenting education with college and career development. Participants take part in education workshops designed to strengthen relationships and promote early learning at home, while college and career readiness sessions provide hands-on guidance in academic planning, financial aid, and workforce preparation. Personalized home visits ensure each family receives one-on-one coaching and access to community resources that help remove barriers to success.

“By engaging parents as learners and leaders, AVANCE to College empowers families to pursue their educational goals while nurturing the next generation of scholars,” said Dr. Teresa Granillo, AVANCE CEO. “We’re thrilled to bring this life-changing partnership to Houston and to see families reach milestones they once thought were out of reach.”

As one of Texas’s largest community colleges, HCC continues to prioritize access and inclusion for learners, balancing education, work, and family responsibilities. Guided by Texas HB 1361, the college has implemented family-friendly supports, such as flexible course scheduling, childcare referrals, and academic advising tailored to student parents.

Programs like AVANCE to College deepen that commitment, Dr. Villagran-Glover added. “This partnership reflects our mission to meet learners where they are and to build pathways that make higher education attainable—no matter what responsibilities they carry outside the classroom.”