05/27/2026
This National Foster Care Month, Merced College is proud to spotlight Rene Salazar, EOPS/NextUp Counselor and Psychology Instructor, for his dedication to supporting students with foster care experience.
With more than 20 years serving foster youth, Salazar brings empathy, mentorship, and lived understanding to his work — helping students overcome challenges, build confidence, and pursue their goals.
He believes foster youth are not defined by their past, but by their potential, and he’s proud to be part of a campus community that continues to expand resources and create meaningful support systems for students.
From counseling and teaching to advocating for innovation and student success, Salazar’s impact reflects the heart of Merced College.
Read more in the latest Blue Devil’s Advocate. https://mercedcollege.foleon.com/the-blue-devils-advocate/blue-devils-advocate-may-2026/team
