Provides educational, cultural and social support for American Indian students
Who We Are
Your Many Circles of Support
We are your circle of support — UCR staff, faculty, students, and friends of Native Americans dedicated to your academic, social, and personal success. We are your campus family and your biggest fans. Behind all of NASP's resources and activities are a network of mentors and student peers who care about your wellbeing. Everything we do is to help all students achieve their college and career goals, educate and enjoy life at UCR. Stop by, meet us, and make NASP your home.
First UC: Leading the Way for Native American Culture
UCR is the first University of California campus to open an office focused on serving American Indian students, and remains only one of a few in the system. We are honored to have a strong history of serving the needs of Native students and educating the campus community about the uniqueness of the American Indian. Our history is as important as our future, and we are part of a university that supports a celebration of both.
Native students at UCR have been active as a community since the 1970s, and created enduring events such as the Annual Medicine Ways Conference and the Annual UCR Pow Wow (1981). Their hard work and efforts led to the formation of NASP in 1980. Since then, UCR has enjoyed continued growth in the number of Native students on campus, as well as educational enrichment from our vibrant cultural presentations and events. Our history is strong, and our future is promising just like the students we serve.
Historical Timeline
- 1980: Native American Student Programs is established at UCR.
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1981: Medicine Ways Conference and Pow Wow established.
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1991–2009: Earl Dean Sisto (YavapaiApache) serves as NASP Director.
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1991: NASP moves into 244 Costo Hall.
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2005–08: Joshua Gonzales (Xictlaka/Mexika) serves as NASP Program Assistant.
- 2005: NASP establishes the Gathering of the Tribes Summer Residential Program and Spirit of the Tribes 5K.
- 2007: NASP moves into current location 229 Costo Hall.
- 2009–Present: Joshua Gonzales (Xictlaka/Mexika) serves as NASP Director.
- 2016: Beyaja Notah (Navajo) serves as NASP Program Coordinator. Summer of 2018, Beyaja returns to school.
- 2018: NASP receives $1.28 million grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
- 2019: Spring of 2019 Joaquin Tarango (Miwok) and Sara Medel (Pomo) serve as NASP Program Coordinators. Summer of 2019, Sara returns home. Fall of 2019, Rachell Enriquez (Tohono O' odham) begins as NASP Program Coordinator.
You Belong at UCR
All programs, services, and events offered through Student Affairs are open to everyone, consistent with federal and state law and the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Whether you’re seeking support, joining a community, or participating in campus life, every effort is made to ensure your experience is inclusive, respectful, and accessible, regardless of background or identity.
To learn more, visit the UC Nondiscrimination Statement or the Nondiscrimination Policy Statement for University of California Publications Regarding Student-Related Matters.