MSJC NASSSP Students Attend 43rd Annual Medicine Ways Conference at UC Riverside
5/5/2025
On April 12, 2025, students from Mt. San Jacinto College's Native American Student Support & Success Programs (NASSSP) attended the 43rd Annual Medicine Ways Conference at the University of California, Riverside. As one of the oldest Native-led conferences in Southern California, the event was organized by Native university students and welcomed guests from across the region.
This year's theme, “Healing the Past, Empowering the Future,” centered on using traditional practices to address and heal generational trauma. The conference provided a space for cultural affirmation, academic empowerment, and community connection.
MSJC students participated in culturally centered seminars, connected with Native university students, and toured UCR's Native Garden. The experience directly supported NASSSP's mission to promote academic success, social and leadership growth, and cultural identity among Native students.
“Our students left inspired, connected, and empowered,” said Cuauhtli Ramos, Interim Director of MSJC's NASSSP. “Opportunities like this reinforce our commitment to supporting the whole student, not just academically, but culturally and spiritually as well.”
Two student attendees shared their reflections on the event:
“I never envisioned myself transferring to a UC until after going to this conference.” – Jose Figueroa
“It's amazing to see so many Native people gathered in one space.” – Lisa Burch
The Medicine Ways Conference continues to build bridges between tradition and education for Native students.
