About Us
Laurie Solis
Dr. Laurie Solis is the Program Manager for COC’s Native American Student Support & Success Program (NASSSP) helping to foster a supportive and encouraging educational environment that addresses the unique challenges Native American students face.Additionally, her career as an Anthropologist has given her a valuable perspective in respecting and honoring the cultural traditions for Native Americans, while also being sensitive to what Native American students need to achieve educational and professional success.
Randy DeGroat
My name is Randy DeGroat and I am from the Diné Tribe in New Mexico. I was born and raised in the Navajo Nation and I hope to provide many opportunities for students. With the help of Laurie Solis, Director of the NASSSP grant, we intend to provide equality, a listening ear, and a chance for Native/Indigenous students to blossom.I studied at New Mexico State University at the main campus in Las Cruces, NM, where I earned my bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering. After moving to California to find better opportunities, I learned that the Native & Indigenous communities are very welcoming and providing to me and my family. I intend to pay this kindness forward by providing all students and community members in LA county with a helping hand.
Samuel Sierra
Hello, my name is Samuel Sierra, and I am from the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo tribe in El Paso, Texas. I have spent the majority of my life in Santa Clarita, California, and travel back to my reservation during the summer. I wish to raise awareness not only among indigenous people, but also among people of color and gender. I'm grateful to be passing down teachings that were given to me while traveling across California, and to share and apply them in the community. My mission is to ensure that the Intercultural Center provides a safe environment for the College of the Canyons community. I am honored and blessed to be working with Laurie Solis and Randy DeGroat to show off new ideas and propose things to the community. Outside of work, I'm attending College of the Canyons to get an Associates Degree in Fire Technology. Aside from school, I spend my free time attending Native American ceremonies and activities, as well as crafting and selling my art. Growing up in Santa Clarita, I learned how tough it was to achieve a balance between academics and cultural activities. However, while attending and beginning my studies at College of the Canyons, I was able to relate to others' problems with keeping connected through culture and education thanks to the Intercultural Center.
1. What is the difference between NASSSP and NAIA?
A. NASSSP is the state funded program to support the educational success of American Indian and Native American students. NAIA is the Native American Indigenous Alliance which is open to all students who would like to promote and /or learn about Native American culture.
2. Can anyone be in NAIA?
A. Yes! NAIA is open to everyone!
3. What do I have to do to be a part of the NASSSP Program?
A. Students who are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe, state recognized American Indian tribe, or students who have a Native American ethnic affiliation and/or ancestry and have self identified when they enrolled. Students can also self-enroll in the program that meet this criteria.
4. What is required of me to be in NASSSP?
A. American Indian and Native American identity, and to receive stipends just check in with your NASSSP advisor. To receive a graduation sash, attend one of our NASSSP cultural events and take a cr/nc personal development class!
5. Do I need to be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe to be in NASSSP?
A. No.
6. What are the benefits of NASSSP?
A. Free school supplies, textbook stipends, subsidy cards, participation in Pow Wow's, meeting with tribal elders, craft and talking circles, free health supplies and internships and career opportunities!
7. How can I support NASSSP?
A. As an ally you can support NASSSP through volunteering, providing needed supplies, and monetary donations. You can also offer teaching and learning opportunities such as guided field trips, career opportunities, Internships and more
Resources to help guide you on your educational journey:
- American Indian & Native American resource guide for education
- American Indian & Native American community resources
- Mentorship
- Financial Aid information
- Native American Indigenous Alliance campus events and opportunities
- Campus community cultural events and support
Benefits as an enrolled Native Pathways - NASSSP Student:
- Native American / American Indian students: Click here to self-enroll in the NASSSP Native Pathways Program.
- $100 Book and Supply voucher
- Community support, mentorship and fellowship
- Cultural support and opportunities
- Cultural supplies and resources
- Educational supplies and resources
- Employment assistance and mentorship through affiliated partners
- Native Pathways stole at graduation
The California Community Colleges (CCC) established the "Native American Student Support and Success Program" (NASSSP) to:
- (1) strengthen K-12 pathways to and through the CCC system for Native American students;
- (2) ensure the educational success of Native American students;
- (3) develop Native American leaders; and
- (4) increase the number of Native American mentors to empower future generation
- The Native American Student Success and Support Program (NASSSP) was established as part of Assembly Bill 183. Assembly Bill 183 appropriates $30 million in one-time funding to the California Community Colleges (CCC) to establish the "Native American Student Support and Success Program" (NASSSP) to: (1) strengthen K-12 pathways to and through the CCC system for Native American students; (2) ensure the educational success of Native American students; (3) develop Native American leaders; and (4) increase the number of Native American mentors to empower future generations. Ed Code79520(a). The Chancellor's Office "may enter into agreements with up to 20 community colleges" for the purpose of developing local NASSSP and "shall prioritize awarding grants to community colleges with the highest number of Native American Students.". Ed Code 79520(c)(1) and 79520(d)(2). This memorandum will provide an update for the design of NASSSP, including the two-step approach the Chancellor's Office takes to determine the final 20 community colleges for this investment. As part of this new law, receiving colleges should also develop a land acknowledgement, and develop other programming in coordination with the local Native American Tribe to assist students in their educational goals.
- California Law Education Code
- California Community Colleges | Native American Student Support and Success Program Overview
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