The San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) honored the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in recognition of National Native American Heritage Month at their regular board meeting on November 13.
Acknowledging the long-standing partnerships and continuing active support of the Band of Mission Indians for the students of the SBCCD, Chancellor Bruce Baron said, “We as a District want to recognize the contributions of Native Americans and indigenous peoples worldwide and locally, and especially The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for its long-standing partnership with the District which has improved educational opportunities for so many students. In addition, through the Tribe’s generous support as a Founding Partner of the First Nation’s Experience (FNX) Channel, thousands have come to know the lives, stories, histories, and cultures of indigenous peoples the world over. The SBCCD thanks San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and we look forward to many generations of continued friendship, working together to expand educational opportunities and to enhance the understanding of indigenous cultures among all people in the world”.
The recognition of the Tribe’s involvement with the campuses also noted that San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) annually recognizes the significance of the contributions of Native Americans with the presentation of speakers and programs during “Indigenous People’s Month” and that Crafton Hills College (CHC) annually hosts the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for the California’s First Cultures: A Celebration at Crafton Hills/Waa’t for hundreds of elementary school children. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians also directly financially supports both colleges’ work with students through grants to the Valley Bound Commitment program and scholarships at SBVC and the ISEEK project, the Summer Bridge Program, and scholarships at CHC.