Southwestern College and Native American community members held an inaugural Powwow event over the weekend.
On Saturday, February 24, Southwestern Community College and the Native American community celebrated and honored Native American traditions, including the spirit of unity and diversity that has always impacted the local community.
The free event was open to the public and was held at the SWC soccer field, where they celebrated with drumming, dancing, food, arts and crafts.
This gathering provided an opportunity for all college and community members to celebrate this historic demographic and its culture and history. In attendance were President/Superintendent Dr. Mark Sanchez, governing board members, tribal leaders, college students, and staff.
By hosting this event, Southwestern College demonstrated its commitment and support for the Native American community through unwavering solidarity.
The following community leaders spoke at the event:
- Dr. Mark Sanchez, Superintendent / President, Southwestern College
- Don Dumas, Governing Board President, Southwestern College
- Jaime LaBrake, Tribal Councilman, Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
- David Salomon, Professor of Native American Studies at Southwestern College
- Lucia Napolez, President of the Native American Student Association
- Winter Begay, Head Young Woman at the Powwow, Student, Southwestern College
- Dr. Guadalupe R. Corona, Director of the Office of Student Equity Programs and Services at Southwestern College
Southwestern College has been a long-time supporter of diversity among the college student population, faculty and staff members. The local community college was awarded a grant to assist the Native American Student Support and Success Program, which is committed to helping Native American students.