Sacramento State has announced the creation of the Sacramento State Native American College—a new university initiative aimed at advancing Native-based education and creating pathways for academic and professional service.
The announcement was made last week during Native American Heritage Month at the state California state Capitol during California Indian Culture Education Day celebrations.
“This is a historic moment for Sacramento State and a unique partnership with the Native communities to support Native American students,” said Dr. J. Luke Wood, President of Sacramento State. “We have come an incredibly long way as an institution and are committed to continuing to work on restoring past, present and future Native relations."
Dr. Annette Reed
According to university officials, the Sacramento State Native American College, is set to welcome its inaugural cohort for the Fall 2025 semester “and will offer a unique, culturally rooted educational experience.”
Wood said that the curriculum is designed to equip students with the academic and professional skills necessary to thrive in their careers while fostering deep connections to tribal government and community-based learning.
“The Sacramento State Native American College reflects our commitment to honoring American Indian cultures and traditions while equipping students with the tools they need to lead in their communities and beyond,” he said. “This is about creating opportunities, building bridges, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.”
Dr. Annette Reed, an enrolled member of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation has been tapped to serve as first dean of the Sacramento State Native American College. The announcement of the Native American College comes several months after university officials created the Black Honors College.
