By Sanyah Taylor
A series of Student Government Association meetings highlighted the university’s commitment to Native American recognition, community engagement, and student-led initiatives.
November is recognized nationally as Native American Heritage Month, and the SGA formally acknowledged this with a resolution honoring Native American students, faculty, and community members. The resolution also recognized the university’s historical roots, dating back to March 7, 1887, when the Croatan Normal School was established to train American Indian teachers, with a modest budget of just $500. Despite limited resources and legislative opposition, the school thrived and evolved into UNCP, reflecting the Native American community’s resilience and determination in Robeson County.
The SGA resolution paid tribute to North Carolina’s eight recognized tribes, including the Lumbee, Coharie, and Sappony. It reaffirmed the university’s commitment to honoring indigenous lands and preserving Native American culture. The resolution also recognized contributions from Lumbee leaders like Henry Berry Lowry, Bruce Barton, Connie Brayboy, Julian T. Pierce, and Dr. Ruth Dial Woods, who played pivotal roles in advancing social justice, including resisting the KKK at the Battle of Hayes Pond in 1958. UNCP emphasized the importance of the Museum of the Southeast American Indian, which provides education on Native American history, art, and contemporary issues, highlighting the ongoing contributions of Native American communities to the region.
Campus Transportation
The SGA discussed an initiative to improve campus transportation accessibility. Senators proposed installing benches at all Brave Shuttle stops across campus to make waiting for buses safer and more comfortable for students, faculty, and staff. The benches would also accommodate students with disabilities and align with UNCP’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability. This initiative was inspired by similar improvements at other UNC system schools and seeks to enhance campus life while encouraging sustainable transportation use.
Community-Focused Programs
In addition, student organizations presented funding requests to the SGA in support of community-focused programs. The group Women of Minorities Achieving Now (WOMAN) requested funds to support empowerment workshops, leadership development, and their “Santa is a Woman” initiative, which provides gifts and clothing to children in the Pembroke Housing Authority during the holiday season. The organization explained that its programs directly impact both minority women on campus and local youth, and that its activities include workshops, mentorship, and community service events. After careful discussion and debate, the SGA approved $300 to help WOMAN continue their work this semester, emphasizing the importance of supporting students’ community engagement while maintaining responsible budget oversight.
Throughout the meetings, students, advisors, and community members emphasized the value of recognizing Native American heritage, improving campus accessibility, and supporting student-led initiatives that benefit both UNCP and the surrounding community. By honoring historical achievements, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging active participation in social programs, UNCP’s SGA demonstrates a commitment to creating a more welcoming, equitable, and engaged campus for all.