Umoja is a…
Umoja, (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a community and critical resource dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of African American and other students. Through this college success program and learning community dedicated to helping students reach their academic goals and discover their self -efficacy through a strong, culturally responsive support system. 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 Diaspora.
As part of the program, students have access to dedicated counselor, personal tutors, supportive faculty, enriching programming, and a network of peers committed to academic excellence and personal growth. Umoja courses are designed to deepen students’ appreciation for literature, art, culture, and critical thought centered on the experiences of the African Diaspora worldwide. Students also receive guidance with scholarship applications, career exploration, major and course selection, transfer applications, and university planning so they can strategically achieve their goals and complete their LPC journey successfully and efficiently.
Umoja offers two ways for students to engage in the community:
Umoja Cohort Scholar
Cohort Scholars take designated general education (GE) courses together as part of
a close-knit learning community. These classes are intentionally infused with material
and practices centered on the African and African American Diaspora and Umoja principles,
creating a collaborative and culturally affirming academic experience.
Umoja Community Member Scholar
Community Member Scholars have access to Umoja’s wide range of support services and
opportunities, including counseling, Umoja-supported GE classes, academic and cultural
programming, mentorship networks, transfer opportunities, and community engagement
experiences.
Whether participating as a Cohort Scholar or Community Member Scholar, students become part of a supportive community committed to academic achievement, leadership development, cultural awareness, and student success.
Through the UMOJA students can complete courses in the program to be eligible to transfer to an HBCU/Private University in ONE year or be eligible to transfer to a UC or CSU within TWO years!
Benfits of Being a Umoja Scholar
- Priority registration, so that you register for classes before they fill
- Encouraging and supportive instructors
- Cohort classes- General Education Courses (this means you will take classes with other Umoja students) - it's a community!
- Dedicated counselor who will help you make your academic plan so that you take the right courses
- A personal tutor who will make sure you won’t fall behind on your coursework
- College workshops and guest speakers
- Umoja Confernces and Leadership Summits
- College tours and other transfer events
- Umoja SWAG
- Opportunities to develop your leadership skills
- Access to career and academic resources and opportunities, such as scholarships and internships
- Connection to other interest groups and clubs such as A2MEND, Black Student Union, My Sisters Keeper, etc.…
What are the Umoja Cohort Classes...
For Academic Year 26/27, students will take a combination of semester-long in-person courses as follows:
Fall Semester:
Psychology-Counseling 30 – Student Success & Career Exploration
- CRN: 21074
- Instructor: Tanesha Cartwright
- Schedule: Monday and Wedensday 9:40 AM – 11:05 AM
- 3 units
- CSU/UC transferable course: CSU GE: E
English 1 A - Critical Reading and Composition
- CRN: 23092
- Instructor: Martin Nash
- Schedule: Monday and Wedensday 11:20 AM – 12:45 PM
- Required Support : Monday and Wedensday 12:55 PM – 1:45 PM
- 3 units
- CSU/UC transferable course: CSU GE: A2; IGETC: 1A
Spring Semester: *
Days and Times to be announced mid- September/early August
* Class options subject to Change
Psychology 21 - Psych of Race & Identity
- 3 units
- CSU/UC transferable course: CSU GE: D; IGETC: 4
Communication Studies 1 - Public Speaking
- 3 units
- CSU/UC transferable course: CSU GE:A1; IGETC: 1C
Who Can Be a Part of This Community?
If you are committed to successfully achieving your educational goals and completing your program of study (i.e., certificate, associate's degree or transfer), this program is for you!
Who Is Eligible?
Any student who is enrolled at Las Positas College or has begun the admissions process....
Umoja Cohort Scholar: Must be eligible to take English C1000 (1A) - Critical Reading and Composition and fill out a umoja application*. A umoja orientation will be completed during class period.
Umoja Community Member Scholar: Must fill out a umoja application* and attend a umoja orientation.
*The link to the Umoja Application is at the bottom of the page.
Want to start your journey with Umoja at Las Positas...
Join a supportive community rooted in the legacy, culture, and experiences of the African Diaspora while receiving the guidance and resources to help you achieve your educational goals.
Whether you are looking for academic support, meaningful connections, culturally centered learning, or transfer and career guidance, Umoja is here to help you thrive.
Click the application link below to learn more and apply today — we look forward to welcoming you to the Umoja community!
We promise to provide the support you need to succeed.
