Who we are

Umoja, (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a community and critical resource dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of Black/African American and other students. We believe that when the voices and histories of students are deliberately and intentionally recognized, the opportunity for self-efficacy emerges and a foundation is formed for academic success. Umoja actively serves and promotes student success for all students through a curriculum and pedagogy responsive to the legacy of the African and African American Diasporas.

Our Mission

Our community, supports the academic success of all students toward defined educational goals. We commit to collaborating with campuses at a local level so that there is integration of the core Umoja Community with the particular college mission goals, strategic plan and student equity efforts. Come see what our program is all about!

• Space, Brave Space
  • We will honor the existence of all people by not dismissing or minimizing anyone based on “biological sex, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, cultural background, age, or physical or mental ability,” (Advocates for Youth). Furthermore, our Brave Spaces are “never without the risk of discomfort for those participating, but they allow for a more enriching and extensive dialogue while simultaneously providing tools of support for those who are most vulnerable,” (NASPA Policy and Practice Series, Page 9). This is connected to the Umoja Practices, Ethic of Love—The Affective Domain, Encircling Diversity, The Porch, Language as Power, Intentional and Deliberate, and Mattering. (Umoja Practices, Pages 1-6).
• Active listening
  • We intentionally listen to, understand, observe, show full attentiveness and then provide appropriate feedback if necessary. This allows thoughtful conversation and helps us “seek deep understanding and celebration of the way someone different than ourselves speaks, thinks, imagines and becomes”. This is connected to the Umoja Practices Encircling Diversity, The Porch, and Ethic of Love—The Affective Domain. (Umoja Practices, Page 1, 2 and 6).
• Things that we talk about stays here
  • We are mindful when sharing discussion topics outside of Umoja, and in particular do not share individual identities to maintain confidentiality (personal privacy). By intentionally and deliberately not disclosing one’s identity you are showing respect, which can also be seen as a form of care. This is connected to the Umoja Practices Intentional and Deliberate, and Ethic of Love—The Affective Domain, (Umoja Practices, Page 1).
  • Mandated Reporter Disclosure: Campus employees are mandated reporters and are required to share serious information that demands high-level support.
• We will respect each person that is talking
  • We will allow people to have the mic (speak without interruption) and not dismiss or minimize individual’s thoughts, experiences or expressions. This is connected to the Umoja Practices, Mattering and Ethic of Love—The Affective Domain, (Umoja Practices, Page 1 and 5).