CIRCLE Program
The Centering Indigenous Reciprocity, Culture, Leadership, & Engagement (CIRCLE) Programsupports the development of American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate students where students will engage in opportunities grounded in cultural principles, practices, and values.
Goals
- Create meaningful positive change for participants and their communities
- Improve retention methods that promote the cultural values of Native students
- Create pathways to graduation/degree attainment
- Create a foundation that embraces education systems to positively influence the quality of life of Native students, their families, their communities, and all Nations
Program Structure
- Orientation
- Monthly check-ins with program manager
- Service Project
- Book Club
- Career Connections Luncheons/Dinners
- Social activities
- Resource and skill workshops
- UNITY Leadership Conference
Inspired by the Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement's motif “I belong here,” the phrase Nuh Eevaat (pronounced "new ee vaht") honors the relationship the university has with the Ute Tribe. Meaning "I am here" in the Ute language and directly translating to "I am from here," CIRCLE Program students were able to engage in the process of intentionally naming the edible campus garden located by Pioneer Theatre and the Eyring Chemistry Building.
This partnership between the CIRCLE Program and the Edible Campus Gardens program, empowered space making, belonging and allowed for further distinguishing between the gardens. In line with university values of inclusion and belonging, the students advocated for a name that proclaims that all students belong on campus and in campus programs, honoring our diverse campus community.