Direct Connect

About Direct Connect

A student services navigation portal designed to maximize student’s personal, academic, wellness, cultural and advocacy support.

What is Direct Connect?

Direct Connect is a student support navigation portal that celebrates community wealth. Direct Connect was inspired by today's students, particularly our  Black and Latinx student populations. Our five communities address the whole student including: personal, academic, wellness, cultural, and advocacy support in one centralized location. Offering easy access to "need to know" information, resources, and guidance to cultivate connections and belonging at SMC. 

Intentionality: Highlighting Equity-Centered Programs and Services 

Half of our navigation portal services are equity-centered, according to the California Community College Chancellors Office.

  • California Promise (Financial Aid)
  • Calworks 
  • Student with Disabilities
  • Extended Opportunity Programs and Services
  • Guardian Scholars (Foster Youth)
  • Health and Mental Services
  • Student Financial Assistance
  • Veterans Success Center

Also please refer to 2022-2025 SMC's Equity Plan for more information regarding equity!

Direct Connect Profiles: Explore. Discover. Connect. Thrive 

The Direct Connect profiles comprise of four themes to foster an understanding of each service, how to navigate each service, connecting to student support, and easy access to an abundance of resources.

  • Explore: Understand the purpose of each service.
  • Discover: Learn how to gain access and navigate each service.
  • Connect: Create meaningful connections with SMC student support staff.
  • Thrive: Learn about  resources and tools to enhance your experience at SMC.
Direct Connect Student Support Navigation Portal
Direct Connect was Intentionally Designed with Students in Mind.
Feedback? 

Email Address: direct_connect@smc.edu 

Direct Connect Team
  • Ms. Silvana Carrion, NSF Program Coordinator
  • Dr. Chante DeLoach, Psychology Faculty
  • Dr. Tyffany Dowd, Black Collegian Counseling Faculty 
  • Ms. Maria Belen Vaccaro, STEM Counselor