GONZALES — Twenty-one Gonzales Youth Guardians recently learned about film and television with a visit to De Anza College in Cupertino, Calif.
The Youth Guardians were invited to the college March 20 by Susan Tavernetti, a Gonzales High alumna and former valedictorian and cheerleader at the high school. Tavernetti is currently chairwoman of the college’s Film and TV Department.
The visit began with the Latinx High School Student Empowerment Conference, followed by a breakout session of their choice. The Youth Guardians went to the Visual and Performing Arts Center and were taken to the sound stage.
Once at the sound stage, there was entertainment by Ensamble Folclorico Colibri. In the college’s Screening Room, Alicia Cortez, dean of equity and engagement, and Nubia Sanchez, with the Office of Outreach and Relations of Schools, explained what the college had to offer the students. Sanchez is also a Gonzales High alumna.
Tavernetti wrapped up the day by speaking about the Film and Television Program, then the group visited the Sound Animation class. The Guardians were treated to a glimpse of a color-grading demonstration and watched short films created by students.
According to Youth Guardian Supervisor Jean Salcido, three of the students who attended the De Anza College trip are seniors, Jonathan Ganaden, Sean Javier and Gonzalo Villagomez. All three have been with the Youth Guardians since 2014.
“I wanted to share with all the students that there is so much more for them,” Salcido said. “The students have so much potential and a great opportunity for the GYG and students to meet amazing alumni from Gonzales.”
The field trip was funded through a neighborhood grant from the Community Foundation of Monterey County.
