Every year, the National UNITY Conference elevates the importance of higher education by creating spaces for Native youth to explore college and career pathways in culturally relevant ways. This year, the partnership between UNITY and San Diego State University (SDSU) brought college tours and on-campus involvement to new heights, showcasing what’s possible when Native students, institutions, and community organizations work hand-in-hand.
On Thursday, June 26, UNITY attendees had the opportunity to sign up for campus tours of SDSU. Open to the first 100 youth and chaperones, the tours offered an inside look into academic departments, student services, and cultural spaces supporting Native students. As part of the Local Planning Committee, SDSU’s Native students also played an active role in shaping the UNITY experience—volunteering throughout the week, hosting workshops, and organizing this year’s UNITY 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament.
For many attendees, this was their first glimpse of a Native-friendly university campus, while for others, this was their first time traveling out of state. SDSU’s active Native Resource Center and vibrant Native student community helped youth envision a future where culture and education walk side by side. “These tours give our youth the confidence to apply to schools where they feel seen and supported,” one advisor shared. It was more than just a tour—it was an invitation to dream bigger and belong.
This initiative directly supports UNITY’s goal of enhancing college and career readiness among Native youth. By collaborating with local universities, UNITY provides tangible examples of how Indigenous identity can be honored in higher education spaces. Through mentorship, resource sharing, and representation, these partnerships help prepare youth not only to attend college—but to lead in those environments.
The impact was immediate and heartfelt. Tionne Big Plume (TsuuT’ina Nation) said, “It helped me see that there are Native students just like me in college. I didn’t know that before. That makes me feel like I can do it too.” Another youth added, “It opened my eyes to scholarships and programs I never heard of before. I’m going to tell my cousins when I get home.”
Advisors echoed this value. “SDSU’s hospitality showed our youth what’s possible. They didn’t just show off their campus—they welcomed us like family,” one shared. The intentionality of the visit resonated with many, especially those who have historically felt disconnected from mainstream academic spaces.
More than 3,000 attendees from around the country came together to celebrate their culture and explore strategies for using their voices and leadership to create positive change in their communities. Youth attendees and trainers held meaningful discussions and explored actions to promote positive mental health and substance abuse prevention efforts. The National UNITY Conference was held from June 27 to July 1 at the Town & Country Resort in San Diego. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is the presenting sponsor.
“It’s always so inspiring to see our youth come together and demonstrate so much passion for their communities,” said Mary Kim Titla, UNITY executive director. “Our goal is always to empower Native youth to become cultural stewards and future leaders. Youth, chaperones, trainers, and staff felt a renewed sense of pride and purpose during the conference that will fuel them when they return home.” Pre-conference activities included campus tours at San Diego State University and a Native Youth Empowerment Night.
The partnership between UNITY and SDSU reflects a shared mission to empower Native students through education, leadership, and cultural affirmation. While UNITY provides mentorship and training through youth councils and national gatherings, institutions like SDSU offer the next step—academic spaces where youth can continue growing in their purpose.
UNITY is proud to recognize the 2025 major Conference sponsors: Gila River Indian Community, Vadon Foundation, Bank of America Charitable Foundation, Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, San Carlos Apache Tribe, Colorado River Indian Tribes, Titan Facility Services, LLC, The Chickasaw Nation, Arizona Public Service, Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation (MHA), United Auburn Indian Community (among others).
Ultimately, the SDSU college tours exemplified how exposure, mentorship, and Native visibility in higher education can fuel a young person’s journey. Through thoughtful partnerships and youth-first programming, UNITY continues to open doors—both symbolic and literal—toward a future where Native youth lead, thrive, and achieve at every level.