Martin Covarrubias (he/they)

The Pride Center at Río Hondo College offers students something Martin Covarrubias once wished he had during his own college experience: a dedicated space to feel accepted, supported and free to be themselves.

Now serving as program manager of Educational Justice Programs in the Student Equity and Achievement division, Covarrubias helps create that sense of belonging for LGBTQIA+ students, drawing from his own experiences as a former student and campus leader.

His commitment to supporting students recently earned him and the College’s Pride Center recognition from Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis.

“This moment is much bigger than me,” Covarrubias said. “It represents the students who have found community within our space, the advocates who came before us, and the people who continue working to ensure LGBTQIA+ students feel seen, supported, and celebrated.”

A San Gabriel native and Gabrielino High School graduate, Covarrubias began attending Río Hondo College in 2015. As a student leader, he helped organize events such as National Coming Out Day while navigating his own journey of understanding and embracing his identity.

During his college years, Covarrubias faced a difficult choice between securing stable housing and continuing his education. With guidance from his former supervisor and mentor, Shaina Phillips, now associate vice president of Strategic Partnerships, and support from the College, he found a way to pursue both. Phillips connected him with housing resources and encouraged him to continue his education and pursue a master’s degree.

Covarrubias shares this experience so students facing similar challenges know they do not have to choose between meeting their basic needs and pursuing their education. That same compassion guides his work today and reflects the College’s Caring Campus initiative, which emphasizes how personal connections and everyday acts of care can help students feel supported and valued.

Through the Pride Center and Pride Scholars Program, Covarrubias helps students access resources, build relationships and find community. Some of his most meaningful moments happen during everyday conversations, particularly when students begin to feel comfortable expressing who they are.

“Sometimes, belonging is as simple as being greeted by name, having someone listen to your story, or walking into a room and realizing you are not alone,” he said.

His advocacy also extends beyond campus through his service on the California Community Colleges LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, where he contributes to statewide efforts to strengthen student support and representation.

“I believe no student should ever have to choose between embracing their identity and pursuing their education,” he said.

As he continues supporting students, Covarrubias hopes the Pride Center remains a place where they can build confidence, find community and recognize their potential.