When Parents Lead, Communities Thrive
When Tannia Vargas first joined FIERCE Advocates’ Community Education Leadership Institute (CELI), she thought she was simply adding another commitment to her already full plate. As a mother, homeowner, and community member in Richmond, her motivation was clear: she wanted to learn how to advocate for her children’s education.
What she found was something much greater:
“I thought I was just adding another thing to my plate, and then I realized I’m finally doing something for myself,” Tannia shared. “Just having somebody rooting for you at every step of the way helped me break out of my shell and realize that I am a leader and I can do this.”
Through CELI, Tannia built practical skills in public speaking, policy engagement, coalition-building, and self-care. But perhaps more importantly, she gained the confidence to see herself as a leader and the support of a community that believed in her.
Stepping Into Leadership
After graduating from CELI in Fall 2024, Tannia was appointed to the Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) by the West Contra Costa Board of Education. The committee plays a vital role in ensuring that taxpayer dollars for school construction are spent responsibly and equitably.
For Tannia, serving on the CBOC is both professional and personal. “I am a parent, taxpayer, and homeowner in Richmond, and I have a vested interest in the success of the West Contra Costa Unified School District. Bonds play a critical role in providing students with access to the resources, facilities, and programs they need to thrive.”
Her expertise as a nonprofit accountant and her deep commitment to equity now help shape decisions that impact thousands of students and families in her community.
Watch Tannia’s Story
Hear directly from Tannia about her CELI journey and how the program gave her the tools and confidence to lead:
The Power of CELI
Stories like Tannia’s reflect the true power of CELI. The program was designed to equip emerging leaders with the tools and confidence to influence education, health, and wellness in Contra Costa County. From learning how systemic inequities affect families of color to building strategies for self-care and resilience, CELI prepares participants to step into leadership roles on local boards, commissions, and committees.
The impact is clear:
Parents and caregivers discover their leadership voice.
Communities gain advocates who champion equity and accountability.
Local decision-making bodies become more transparent and reflective of the communities they serve.
As Tannia’s journey shows, when everyday leaders are empowered, entire systems can change.
Be Part of the Next CELI Cohort
Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level? Applications for the Spring 2026 Community Education Leadership Institute will be opening soon, and the interest form is available now!
The 2026 cohort will run from March to June, with sessions held two Saturdays each month. Participants will complete about 30 hours of in-person training, skill-building, guest speaker events, and hands-on learning. Meals, materials, childcare, interpretation in English and Spanish, and a stipend are provided.
By filling out the interest form, you will receive more details and the formal application once it is available.
