Las Positas College student presents at National Research Conference at the University of Pennsylvania

Las Positas College (LPC) is proud to announce that Raza Ali, a distinguished student at our institution, recently presented his original research at the inaugural National Research Conference at Penn (NRCP) hosted by the University of Pennsylvania. The student-run event, held on October 4-5, 2024, aimed at promoting effective research communication and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among undergraduate scholars.
 
Raza Ali was one of only two community college students selected to present at this highly selective conference, a testament to his dedication and contributions to the fields of science and medicine. His research project, titled “Bioactive Molecules in Islamically Recommended Foods,” combines his Muslim community’s traditional wisdom with his interest in biology. This project is particularly close to his heart, reflecting his deep commitment to integrating cultural heritage with scientific inquiry.
 
"I was honored to present my research at the National Research Conference at Penn," said Raza Ali. "As the first in my family to engage in research and pursue medicine in the U.S., I strive to transform academic inquiry from an ivory tower institution into a societal service. This opportunity allowed me to share my work with a broader audience and connect with leading researchers in my field. I was excited to represent Las Positas College and contribute to the interdisciplinary dialogue at this event."
 
Raza’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. Over the past seven years, he has balanced his role as a full-time student with the responsibilities of being a caretaker for his grandmother. After leaving high school early to support his family, he enrolled at Las Positas College where the Honors Transfer Program, along with his faculty mentor, Segal Boaz, played a crucial role in his academic progress without compromising his family commitments.
 
“We are incredibly proud of Raza Ali and his accomplishments,” said Dr. Dyrell Foster, President of Las Positas College. “His invitation to present at such a prestigious conference speaks to his hard work, passion for research, and the exceptional education provided here at Las Positas College. We look forward to seeing him continue to excel and make significant contributions to his field.”
 
The NRCP, sponsored by prominent entities such as the University of Pennsylvania Center for Outreach, Research, and Education, Penn Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemical Biology Graduate Group, and The Wharton School, is committed to bridging understanding across disciplines. The conference’s mission, "Bridging Understanding," reflects its dedication to fostering a culture of learning and dialogue among undergraduate researchers, preparing them to tackle the complex issues facing our world.
 
Las Positas College celebrates Raza Ali’s remarkable achievement and looks forward to supporting his continued success in the academic and research communities. His participation in the NRCP not only highlights his individual accomplishments but also underscores the quality of education and mentorship provided at Las Positas College.
For more information about the National Research Conference at Penn, visit https://upennnrc.org/.

  

About Las Positas College
Las Positas College currently enrolls nearly 8,500 day and evening students. The College offers a curriculum for students seeking career preparation, transfer to a four-year college or university, or personal enrichment. The College provides university transfer classes, retraining classes for those in need of employment or career advancement, a first-time educational opportunity for many adults, enrichment classes for those seeking a broader perspective, and career and technical training for those entering the technical and paraprofessional workforce. Las Positas College excels in helping students transfer to the University of California system, the California State University system, and other four-year institutions. Las Positas College is a learning-centered institution focused on excellence and student success and is fully committed to supporting all Tri-Valley residents in their quest for education and advancement.