Welcome to 

De Anza College Umoja logo


The Umoja program is based on an African-centered philosophy that enables students to see themselves within a positive historical and cultural context. 

Umoja seeks to educate the whole student – body, mind and spirit  through the construction of knowledge and critical thought.

The program was developed to promote transferring and increase academic and personal success. The Umoja program aims to address student needs through supportive services and curriculum that is based on literature from across the African Diaspora.

Big News!

smiling young man in grad cap and gown walking across stage

2025 Black Graduation and Achievement Ceremony

  • Wednesday, June 18: 5 p.m.
  • Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC)

Sign Up to Participate

BFSA Scholarship Opportunities

The Black Faculty, Staff and Administrators Network (BFSA) is pleased to offer these $1,000 scholarships to provide additional support to students as you continue your education and pursue your academic goals. You must apply by Sunday, May 18. For eligibility requirements and additional information, please click each link:

How To Join Umoja

All SSRS programs begin in the summer with program specific orientations and our Summer Bridge experience.

We will begin accepting applications to our programs in May.

If you are interested in joining any of our SSRS programs, please complete the following steps:

  1. Apply to De Anza College
  2. Make sure the Assessment Office has your high school transcript, in order to determine your English placement.
  3. Complete the SSRS online interest form.
  4. Attend orientation for the college or a specific program in July.
  5. Attend Summer Bridge in late August.

Student and Faculty Stories

We highlighted several De Anza students and faculty members as part of Black Student Success Week in 2023. 

Jessica Bryant

Lydia Dessu

Paulo Newsome

Rhema Sosimi

Jade Stevens

Read about these amazing individuals on our Umoja Stories webpage.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences of all students through a curriculum rooted in the African and African American diaspora. Our program is open to all students. 

Umoja Class Photo

Join Us Online!

Umoja Benefits

Umoja focuses on providing instruction and academic support services while emphasizing the social and cultural dynamics of African Ancestry students at De Anza College, through

  • Integrated instruction and student services
  • Course clustering for program participants
  • Individualized educational planning
  • Personal counseling
  • Peer mentoring
  • Academic tutoring
  • Conference attendance
  • Various academic enrichment workshops
  • Attendance at conferences and cultural events

Contact

Maurice Canyon

Maurice Canyon
Counselor/Coordinator

canyonmaurice@fhda.edu


Visit Us on the Web


Office Location

LCW 102
View campus map


Support Umoja

You can make a donation to support Umoja programs for students by using this link to the Foothill-De Anza Foundation's donation website. (The online form is already filled in to designate your gift for "DAUmoja")

Donate Now

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