Umoja (Swahili for ‘Unity’) is a themed first year residential learning experience housed in ABE for Fall 2025. Umoja provides an intentional space for any first year student who is interested in creating community and understanding the experience of being Black Indigenous Persons of Color at a predominantly white institution. Residents will be a member of a community that commits to building an affirming environment with intentional engagement and program participation.
Applications for 2024-2025
Application Deadline for 2024-2025: Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at 11:59p.m.
Terms to know
PWI: Predominantly White Institution
BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color: Anyone who does not identify solely as white
Black: A person of African or Caribbean descent
Indigenous: A member of the First Peoples (original residents) of a continent
People of Color: Broad descriptor for that includes people from India, East Asia, Mexico, Hawaii, Pacific Islands, Philippines
Residents will share knowledge and experiences. This is not a place to silo students of color; rather it’s a place for residents to engage in conversations centered around race, culture, social justice, and anti-racism.
Opportunities
- Events
- Annual Talent Show
- Kuhitimu (Umoja Graduation)
- BIPOC Inspired Trips
- Fall 2022: Trip to see Wakanda Forever in theaters
- Spring 2023: Trip to National Museum of African American History & Culture (co-sponsored with The Black Student Union & Inclusive Excellence)
- Fall 2024: Trip to see Bob Marley: One Love
- Fall 2022: Trip to see Wakanda Forever in theaters
- Mentorship
- Monthly Hangouts
- Committee Opportunities
- Residents who spend the entire year with us will officially graduate from the community and receive a certificate, cord with signature Umoja colors, and an Umoja t-shirt!
“Being a part of the multicultural community was everything I expected and more. The openness, communication, laughter, and enthusiasm everyone had to each other made the year memorable. The community was open to bonding and acceptance, no matter race or gender. It truly was a home away from home. Best decision I ever made in the past year.” -Dare Odukomaiya ’21-’22 Cohort
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Where will Umoja be located?
This housing is available in Brewster hall. The community is primarily double occupancy rooms with community bathrooms.
Who can participate in Umoja?
Any first year student who is interested can request this option.
What if someone who requested Umjoa decides they no longer wish to do so?
Prior to move in, students should reach out to housing at housing@tcnj.edu or 609-771-2301. During the academic year, students may request room changes by following the room change processes that are published each semester.