Fullerton College and local high'school partners have launched a dual'enrollment esports and game'design pathway intended to reengage students and connect them to career opportunities, President Cynthia Olivo said on the Future Talks podcast.

"We're trying to ensure that we bring back our student enrollment," Olivo said, adding that men of color were among the groups most affected by pandemic'era declines. She described esports and game design as an avenue to attract students by offering programs tied to their interests and potential local career pathways.

Olivo noted a new faculty hire, Carlos Antunes, who is leading the instruction and mentorship work across the college and partner districts. She also referenced a corporate partner, Extron, supporting the initiative.

Host Michael Matsuda said the program will be offered through dual enrollment with local districts (in conversation he referenced the Anaheim Union High School District), enabling students to begin coursework in high school and continue at the college. Olivo described the pathway as one of several strategies to rebuild enrollment and create workforce connections in the region.