In a celebration of shared values and future possibilities, Stanislaus State and Orestimba High School officially signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) last week, launching the “Warrior Promise” — a partnership designed to strengthen college pathways and ensure student success for generations to come.
Held at Orestimba High School in Newman, the event brought together students, families, educators and community leaders to witness the formalization of a commitment grounded in access, equity and empowerment.
The Warrior Promise guarantees admission to Stanislaus State for Orestimba High School students who meet California State University (CSU) eligibility requirements. In addition to admission, the agreement will provide comprehensive support services, including college and career readiness workshops, peer mentorship, financial aid guidance and opportunities for students and their families to visit and engage with the Stan State campus.
“This agreement is more than a document — it’s a declaration of belief in the promise of our students,” said Stanislaus State President Britt Rios-Ellis. “The Warrior Promise says: We see you. We believe in your future. And we are here to walk with you — con orgullo y compromiso — every step of the way.”
President Rios-Ellis extended thanks to Superintendent Justin Pruett and Orestimba High School Principal Leslie Suffecool, a proud Stanislaus State alumna, for their leadership and shared vision.
“Orestimba High, like Stan State, serves a vibrant, close-knit community where values like family, hard work and cultural pride run deep,” said Rios-Ellis. “With a 95% graduation rate, Orestimba is already doing incredible work, and we are proud to work together to build upon that strong foundation.”
The initiative will also focus on empowering families with the information and tools they need to support their students’ higher education journeys. Bilingual workshops and community engagement opportunities will be included in the program, ensuring the pathway to college is clear and inclusive.
The MOU aligns with Stan State’s mission as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, where more than 70% of students are the first in their families to attend college.
“This is about more than just gaining admission. We are preparing students to lead, to thrive and to build lives with purpose — con propósito,” Rios-Ellis said.
The Warrior Promise also reflects the University’s continued commitment to social mobility and academic excellence. Stanislaus State has earned national recognition from The Wall Street Journal, ranking No. 2 in the nation for social mobility and No. 24 overall among colleges and universities. The California Mobility Index ranked Stan State No. 3 in the state for return on investment for low-income students.
As the partnership launches, President Rios-Ellis issued a call to students and families: “Imagine yourself, or your child, walking on our campus and feeling like you belong — because you do. We are ready to welcome you with open arms, because your dreams deserve a place to grow.”
