Umoja Center coordinator search continues, interim hire leads this fall

The Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence at Cal Poly Humboldt is continuing its search for a new coordinator following the departure of former coordinator Alexus-Harelle Deshazier in March. Applications for the permanent position opened in May and closed Aug. 17. The university is expected to announce the new hire near the end of September, although that is still subject to change.

Jaguar Smith has served as interim coordinator since June, after being asked to step into the role in May.

According to California State University standards, the coordinator oversees the daily operations of the center and advocates for the success of students who identify with diverse identities represented within the African diaspora. The position will also work with campus partners to develop programs that promote inclusion and intersectional engagement, collaborate with academic departments on culturally responsive programming, support Umoja academic advisors and help the university improve enrollment and success among underrepresented students.

Smith previously worked as a student assistant at the Umoja Center while she was studying for her undergraduate degree in critical race, gender and sexuality studies. She also worked at the health center’s CAPS/CARE center while she was completing her graduate degree in social work.

Smith expressed that her experience working as a former Umoja student assistant helped her connect and better prepare for her role in supporting students during this transition.

“My intention was to support the students here, to create some stability during the transitional time,” Smith said. “And to offer my knowledge as a former student assistant with Umoja, knowing the center functions, knowing how we navigate and being able to support the students with that knowledge.” Located in Nelson Hall East 206, the Umoja Center operates within the Center for Inclusive Academic & Career Excellence. The center is able to provide students with academic and professional resources, while also serving as a space where students can build community.

Students are able to use the space to study, complete homework, print materials or spend time with friends in between classes. Students are also able to schedule advising appointments with Travis Richards or meet with Smith for consultations, advice and resources, particularly for students who are new to campus.

Smith explains that one of the most common difficulties students face is finding a sense of belonging. For some students, having a space where they can feel comfortable, safe and supported is just as important as academic success.

“There’s many reasons why students come in. It’s a spot where students can have that sense of belonging and space on campus to come between their classes and hang out and utilize the space however they see fit,” Smith said.

Umoja also works with several campus programs and cultural centers, including El Centro, ADPI+MENA, ITEPP and the Social Justice, Equity, Inclusion and Community Center. Through its more recent collaboration with the Center for Inclusive Academic & Career Excellence, the center has also developed connections with the Queer Center, Veterans Center and Transfer Center.

If selected for the permanent position, Smith said she would maintain existing programs, including campus events, while continuing to support incoming and returning students. She also emphasized the contributions of Umoja’s student staff and academic advisor, who bring their own campus connections and areas of expertise.

Smith voiced that she hopes those relationships and connections will continue to benefit students regardless of who is ultimately selected for the permanent position.

“I am happy to be here and to get back to a space that was a part of my professional development and growth and gave me that sense of belonging.”