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MSJC Celebrates Native American Heritage Month with Significant Growth in Support for Native American Students

11/7/2024

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of Native Americans. Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) proudly highlights its ongoing efforts to provide higher education and dedicated support to Native American students across its 1,700-square-mile district. The college’s Native American Student Support & Success Program (NASSSP) has experienced significant growth, now serving 909 Indigenous students—an extraordinary increase from just 74 students last semester.

MSJC’s NASSSP is committed to the holistic development of Native American students, creating a nurturing and inclusive environment that supports their academic, social, leadership, and cultural journey from the first year through graduation. The program offers a wide range of support services, including dedicated counseling, academic assistance, culturally responsive programming, and financial support. These services are designed to empower students to navigate their educational paths successfully while celebrating their heritage.

MSJC acknowledges that it resides on the unceded land of the Payómkawichum ("Luiseño") and Cahuilla peoples, recognizing both the historical significance of this land and the ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities. The college continues its mission to foster strong relationships with the present-day Indigenous peoples of the Mt. San Jacinto Community College District.

Dr. Roger Shultz, Superintendent/President of MSJC, expressed his enthusiasm for the program's progress: “The recent growth of our NASSSP has been phenomenal, and we are excited to build on this momentum. It is our hope to continue serving our Native American population effectively, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive academically and personally.”

Cuauhtli T. Ramos, NASSSP Director and a citizen of the Tejon Indian Tribe, shared his passion for leading the program: “This initiative holds personal significance for me. MSJC has existed since the 1960s, yet efforts to support the original inhabitants of this land have been limited. My own educational journey was transformed by programs that recognized and celebrated my identity. I aim to provide similar support and mentorship to our students at MSJC.”

NASSSP's services extend beyond the classroom, offering tailored counseling, mentoring, tribal community engagement, cultural and academic workshops, campus tours, and assistance with scholarship applications. Yvonne Urias, Student Success Navigator, affirmed the program’s commitment: “I am here to assist students through enrollment, helping them register for courses and navigate various MSJC platforms. My goal is to ensure they achieve their educational objectives.”

Additionally, NASSSP aligns with recent legislation (AB1248), supporting students who wish to wear tribal regalia or culturally significant items during graduation ceremonies, affirming their identity and traditions.

As MSJC celebrates Native American Heritage Month, it continues to build on the NASSSP's foundation of academic success, retention, community building, and cultural relevance. The college remains dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for Native American students and making higher education accessible and meaningful for all.

For more information about the Native American Student Support & Success Program at Mt. San Jacinto College, please contact Yvonne Urias at yurias@msjc.edu or (951) 639-5264.