Southwestern College held its 2nd Annual Pow Wow on March 1, with Kumeyaay Bird Singers, Gourd Dancing, a Grand Entry, and Inter-Tribal Dancing.
As an educational institution, Southwestern College recognizes the importance of diversity among its students, faculty, and staff as well as members of the community. Additionally, Southwestern College was awarded a Native American Student Success and Support grant which provides a dedicated counselor/coordinator and a project technician, to recruit and retain Native American students.
In attendance were SWC President Dr. Mark Sanchez, Barona Band of Mission Indians Robert “Bobby” Wallace, SWC Native American Studies Professor David Salomon, SWC Office of Student Equity Programs and Services Director Dr. Guadalupe R. Corona, and SWC Governing Board Vice President Kris Galicia-Brown.
Galicia-Brown said the celebration served to show the college’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, and actively seeks to understand and honor the traditions, histories, and contributions of the region’s indigenous community.
“Our goal at Southwestern is to provide resources that empower students to thrive. Not only academically, but culturally as well. Supporting indigenous students is essential at Southwestern College’s mission of equity and inclusion,” she said.
