Umoja Center Staff

Professional Staff

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Program Coordinator

Jaguar Smith, MSW, PPSC, ASW (she/her)

Born and raised in Humboldt County, Jaguar began her journey with the Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence as a first-generation transfer student at Cal Poly Humboldt in 2020. As a student assistant with Umoja, Jaguar experienced firsthand the power of culturally affirming support and community in higher education. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Critical Race, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (CRGS) in 2023, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) and Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) in 2025. As an Associate Clinical Social Worker, Jaguar has supported students through roles including a Post-Master's Residency with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Cal Poly Humboldt, bringing expertise in mental health, student development, and holistic wellness. Grounded in strengths-based, culturally responsive, and social justice-informed practices, Jaguar is dedicated to fostering spaces where students feel a strong sense of belonging, empowerment, and community. As Coordinator of the Umoja Center, she works collaboratively to advance student success through culturally grounded programming, mentorship, advocacy, wellness, and academic support that honors the resilience, brilliance, and diverse experiences of Black students at Cal Poly Humboldt.

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Academic Advisor

Travis A. Richards, Ed.D (he/him)

Nassau, Bahamas-born, first-generation scholar, and academic insurgent. Dr. Richards traded palm trees for protest signs, transforming a personal journey into a doctorate weaponized for educational justice.
At the Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence, Dr. T. leverages his research on systemic inequity to mentor and champion Humboldt’s student activists and scholars. He specializes in translating complex, oppressive systems into actionable strategies, ensuring students are not just academically successful, but are equipped to challenge and reshape the structures around them. His approach blends rigorous scholarship with unapologetic advocacy turning ivory tower theory into tools for liberation.