On Thursday, Oct. 8, Umoja hosted its annual Rites of Passage Ceremony, which acknowledges the legacy of those who fought to ensure Black and African American children had access to education and also recognizes the outstanding achievements of Umoja students.
The event provided an opportunity to celebrate students who demonstrated academic excellence during the previous Fall and Spring semesters, as well as students who have emerged as leaders within the Umoja Program and club. This year, more than 40 students attended the ceremony, while over 90 students were recognized for their academic accomplishments.
During the 2025-2026 academic year, Umoja students achieved remarkable success:
- 40 students earned a GPA between 3.00-3.49.
- 43 students earned a GPA between 3.50-3.99.
- 10 students earned a perfect 4.00 GPA.
Throughout the ceremony, students were encouraged to continue striving for excellence, even when faced with challenges and adversity. The event served as a powerful reminder that perseverance, commitment, and community support are key ingredients for academic and personal success.
The Umoja Program remains committed to fostering a culture of achievement, leadership, and empowerment, and looks forward to celebrating the continued accomplishments of its students in the years ahead.
For more information, visit the Norco College Umoja website.