At a recent ceremony honoring American Indian and Alaska Native graduates at Cal State San Marcos, a historic gift was made that promises to transform Indigenous education. Leaders from Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation presented a \$3 million endowment to the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC). This is the largest single gift in the university’s history for Indigenous education and research.
The gift was more than just financial support. In a meaningful exchange, the CICSC gave the tribe a unique painting called “The Gift,” created by Eric Tippeconnic, a Native artist and professor. This exchange symbolizes a strong partnership based on respect, shared values, and a commitment to Native student success.
Joely Proudfit, director of CICSC, said the endowment represents more than money. It shows belief in Indigenous education’s power to transform lives. She explained that when tribes invest in education, they support tribal sovereignty and cultural survival. The funds will help Native students access higher education and preserve their knowledge and traditions in academic spaces.
CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt welcomed the gift, calling it historic and a sign of the strong partnership between the university and tribal nations. This partnership began over a decade ago when the tribe donated nearly \$1 million to help start the CICSC. Since then, the center has become a leading hub for Native student success, research, and community engagement.
Johnny Hernandez, vice chairman of the Yuhaaviatam Tribal Council, said the gift builds a legacy for future Native leaders. He thanked the university for creating a space that honors Native voices and perspectives. He said the endowment will support education, cultural preservation, and tribal sovereignty for generations.
The gift was announced during a graduation ceremony, emphasizing the center’s role in supporting Native students. CSUSM has one of the highest populations of American Indian and Alaska Native students in California. The university fosters an environment where students excel academically while staying connected to their Indigenous roots.
Graduates from CICSC have become leaders in tribal governments, public policy, education, health, arts, and cultural preservation. They serve their communities by blending Western knowledge with Indigenous traditions.
The \$3 million gift, matched by \$1 million from the Epstein Family Foundation, will fund scholarships, Indigenous research, outreach programs, and new opportunities for Native students. It is an investment in sovereignty, culture, and the future of Native education.
This partnership shows what can happen when tribes and universities work together. It creates lasting benefits that extend beyond campus into Native communities across the country.
As the ceremony ended, graduates left knowing their success is part of a larger story of resilience and partnership. Their achievements carry forward the message that Indigenous voices and knowledge belong in every space shaping the future.
