What does "Umoja" mean?

Umoja is the Kiswahili word for UNITY.

What is Umoja's Mission?

The Umoja Scholars Program is committed to enriching, fostering, and nurturing the educational experience of all students, especially African American and first-generation college students, ultimately preparing them for academic, personal, and professional success beyond Los Medanos College. This program addresses student needs through academic support services and a curriculum that focuses on African-American literature and history as well as contemporary issues facing the African-American community.

How does the Umoja Scholars Program work?

Students can join the program as Learning Community Scholars or as members of the Umoja Club.

Umoja Scholars will participate in the Summer Bridge Program which will prepare them for the fall Learning Community. Students will take the following paired classes to prepare them to reach graduation level and transfer level courses:

Year I

Summer: Summer Bridge Study Skills & Math Refresher

Fall: English 70, Math 12, Counseling 34

Spring: English 90, Math 25, Counseling 32

Year II

Fall: English 100 & Math 30

Spring: English 220 & Math 34

Students who are not ready for or have already taken these paired classes may join the Umoja Club which is a Los Medanos College club. Club membership will give students the opportunity to participate in Umoja events and activities. Please contact tsmith@losmedanos.com for more information.