Staff Listing
The team at the Racial Justice Center are dedicated to helping students achieve their goals. Online and Offline, we're here to make things happen on campus on behalf of the students!
Trisden Shaw, M.A.
Trisden Shaw (he/him) is a professor of Ethnic Studies at Santa Monica College. Professor Shaw believes the role of an educator is to empower students to become critical observers and changemakers. He believes a classroom rich in diverse thought, perspective and backgrounds is the place where students can develop solutions to real-world problems. As a former organizer, he sees his work in the classroom as part of the continuous fight for freedom. He holds a deep belief that education is the fuel for a more just and equitable tomorrow. Professor Shaw often partners with community orgs and non-profits to develop curriculum or lead community-based research. Professor Shaw is currently serving on a sub-committee for Santa Monica’s Reparations & Landback Task Force. Professor Shaw is an alumnus of the University of Nevada, Reno, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned a master's degree in African American Studies. Shaw is also a co-author of Saving Public Education: Voices from the Wasteland, which highlights the hurdles students face when pursuing a college degree and offers solutions to make college more equitable.
Emily S. Chavez, M.S.
Student Services Specialist, Student Equity Center
Hi there! My name is Emily Chavez (she/ella), and I’m proud to serve as the Student
Services Specialist at the Student Equity Center. As a Salvadoran American, first-generation
transfer student, and member of a mixed-status family, I deeply understand the unique
challenges many students face on their college journey. I earned my Bachelor’s degree
in Sociology from California State University, Northridge, and my Master’s degree
in Counseling and College Student Personnel from California Lutheran University.
In my role, I’m here to connect you with resources, services, and opportunities that
support your academic and personal success. Whether you’re looking for help navigating
campus programs or simply need someone to empower and uplift you, I’m here for you.
Outside of work, I enjoy walking with my pup Laila, listening to music, weightlifting,
and building meaningful connections.
If you have questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I look
forward to connecting with you on your college journey!
Valeria Garcia, M.S.
Project Manager, Student Equity Center