Supporting Native Heritage and Student Success at Sacramento State

Honoring Our Heritage, Building Our Future

In November, we celebrate National Native American Heritage Month, honoring the rich traditions, languages, and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and Island communities. What began as a grassroots effort to recognize the profound contributions of Native peoples has evolved into a month-long celebration of cultural preservation and education.

Sacramento State resides on the ancestral homelands of the Miwok, Maidu, and Nisenan peoples. In recognition of this heritage and our commitment to supporting Native students, we established the Esak'timá Center (pronounced eh-sack-tee-ma) - a name that means "a place where knowledge comes" in the Nisenan language.

The Esak'timá Center: A Home Away from Home

The Esak'timá Center serves as a vital hub for Native students at Sacramento State, offering comprehensive support services and a welcoming community space. Located in Lassen Hall, the center features study rooms, meeting spaces, and cultural artwork by Native artists, including a signature piece by Nisenan artist Tiffany Adams.

Our Comprehensive Support Services Include:

• Academic advising and workshops
• Peer mentoring and counseling
• Cultural presentations and activities
• Leadership development opportunities
• Scholarship guidance and referrals
• Faculty mentorship programs
• Early outreach and admissions support
• Community engagement opportunities
• Native American Student Succes Collective

Signature Programs:

• Native Scholars & Transition Program: A comprehensive support system for incoming freshmen and transfer students that enriches the academic journey of Native American students by celebrating cultural traditions while providing comprehensive support from admission through graduation, including summer programs, learning communities, and resource connections. Through dedicated programming that spans cultural events, academic guidance, and community building, the Collective creates an inclusive environment where Native scholars can thrive while staying connected to their heritage. 
• Cultural Workshops and Activities: Regular programming that celebrates and preserves Native traditions
• The American Indian Summer Institute (AISI): A transformative weeklong program that empowers Native American youth from California tribal communities by providing comprehensive exposure to higher education pathways through campus visits, meetings with faculty, and in-depth exploration of college systems and requirements. Through dedicated mentorship and support, AISI prepares 10th-12th grade tribal students for successful college transitions, with special focus on serving youth from local tribal nations including the United Auburn Indian Community, Wilton Rancheria, Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, and Ione Band of Miwok Indians. 

Why Your Support Matters

Less than 1% of college students nationally identify as Native American or Alaska Native, and only about 15% of Native Americans hold college degrees. The Esak'timá Center addresses these disparities by creating an environment where Native students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed.

As Sac State President Luke Wood states, "The Esak'timá Center represents another step toward fulfilling our mission of being a fully inclusive campus." 

Your support helps us:

• Expand academic support services
• Provide cultural programming and educational resources
• Create scholarship opportunities
• Maintain and enhance our welcoming space
• Support community outreach initiatives

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your contribution to the Esak'timá Center helps ensure that Native students have the resources, support, and community they need to thrive at Sacramento State. Together, we can honor our shared heritage while building pathways to success for future generations.