Umoja Community
The Umoja Community program (formally known as Aspire/Umoja-Aspire) at Mt. San Antonio College is a culturally responsive learning community and statewide academic support program designed to enhance the cultural and educational experiences of students of the African Diaspora. Rooted in the principle of “Umoja,” (meaning unity in Kiswahili), the program actively serves all students by fostering a strong sense of belonging and student success through culturally responsive courses, workshops, academic counseling, and a robust network of academic, personal, and professional support.
Mission
The mission of Umoja is to enhance 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.
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- Program Benefits (Why Join?)Benefits of the Umoja Community include:
- Supportive Village Space (Center for Black Culture & Student Success)
- Access to a dedicated Umoja Counselor
- (NEW!) Umoja Learning Community (AABS 1, POLS 35, ENGL C1000, COUN 1, COUN 7)
- (NEW!) Calculator Loans
- Culturally-Relevant Workshops & Events
- Opportunity to attend statewide Umoja conferences
- Leadership and Professional Development
- Faculty & Staff Mentoring
- Program Eligibility (To Apply)To become an Umoja scholar, you must:
- Be a currently enrolled at Mt. SAC in a minimum of 3 units
- Have at least a 2.0 GPA (for continuing students)
- Complete the Umoja Student Application
- Attend an Umoja Orientation
- Be interested and committed to learning about Black/African perspectives, experiences, and different cultural viewpoints.
- Program Requirements (To Remain Eligible)To remain eligible and active in the program, you must:
- Meet with an Umoja counselor each semester
- Attend a minimum of 2 Umoja workshops/events each semester
- Participation in Umoja Learning Community or completion of an Umoja-designated course
- Have an up-to-date Comprehensive Ed. Plan on file
- Program Benefits (Why Join?)
Join Umoja
Ready to grow, connect, and succeed in a supportive learning community? Apply today to join the Umoja Community program at Mt. SAC!
Express Interest
Still have questions or want to learn more before you apply? Complete the interest form to receive more information on Umoja Community at Mt. SAC
Umoja Signature Events
Umoja So. CA Regional Symposia
The Umoja Regional Symposium brings together students, educators, and community members for a day of learning, reflection, and connection centered on the academic success and empowerment of African and Black/African American students.
March 13, 2026
Umoja Annual Conference
Annual Conference brings together educators, students, and community partners to celebrate culturally responsive teaching and strategies that support the success of African and Black/African American students.
Nov. 18-21, 2026
HBCU Fall Tour
The Fall HBCU Tour gives students the opportunity to visit Historically Black Colleges and Universities and helps students explore transfer and graduate school options while envisioning themselves thriving at institutions rooted in Black excellence.
Oct. 12-18, 2026
Black Congratulatory Ceremony
The Black Congratulatory Ceremony is a culturally affirming celebration that honors the academic achievements, resilience, and hard work of graduating students while recognizing the community, family, and support systems that contributed to their success.
May 29, 2026
Umoja Porch Talks
Porch Talks provide a welcoming communal space where Umoja Scholars and other students can build meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging through open discussions on topics shaped by student interests and experiences.
Date/Time TBA
