Location:
Student Union Room 201
(in the Student Ally Center)
In-Person Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday, 12:00 – 2:00 pm
GWC Faculty Coordinator:
Joel Powell
Political Science
email: jpowell52@gwc.cccd.edu
(949) 414-4257
Umoja Adjunct Counselor:
Joshua James
email: jjames79@cccd.edu
Umoja Program Coordinator:
Tanae Aubry
email: taubry@cccd.edu
(714) 895-5133
Dual Enrollment Coordinator:
Harry E. Anderson, III
email: handersoniii@cccd.edu
Umoja, (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a community and critical resource dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of African American and other underserved students. Our goal is to help uplift our Black student voices and provide pathways to graduation and transfer to HBCUs, UCs, and CSUs.
As directed by the CCCCO Call to Action, this program aligns to an inclusive campus culture and addresses systemic barriers to African American/Black, and all students of color, within an educational framework.
Umoja actively serves and promotes student success for all students through a curriculum and pedagogy responsive to the legacy of the African and African American Diasporas with the focus on creating an environment of validation and support for our African American/Black Students.
We also provide various services to help enrich our student’s college experience such as:
If you are interested in joining Umoja, please complete the registration form using the link below.
Follow @umoja_gwc on Instagram
Umoja Coordinators
Joel Powell | Joshua James | Tanae Aubry | Harry Anderson
Joel Powell
Faculty Coordinator
Political Science
jpowell52@gwc.cccd.edu
(949) 414-4257
Dr. Joel Powell is a dedicated political scientist and faculty member at Golden West College. His passion for teaching and understanding the complexities of government is evident in his engaging classroom style and extensive professional experience.
Dr. Powell began his academic journey at the University of California, Davis, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in English. His pursuit of knowledge led him to both the University of San Francisco, where he began his legal studies and Kennedy School of law where he completed his doctoral studies in Juris Prudence.
Following his academic pursuits, Dr. Powell embarked on a career in criminal law, gaining valuable insights into the legal system. While he found the work fulfilling, he ultimately realized that his true calling lay in the realm of public policy. This realization prompted a career shift, leading him to work for various firms in the Bay Area, where he honed his expertise in policy development and analysis.
Dr. Powell's diverse background and experiences have shaped him into a well-rounded and knowledgeable educator. His enthusiasm for teaching is contagious, and he brings a unique perspective to the classroom. He is committed to inspiring the next generation of political leaders and public servants.
Joshua James
Umoja Adjunct Counselor
jjames79@cccd.edu
Joshua started his academic journey at California State University of Fullerton. There, he found his passion for student development by contributing to campus culture through his involvement in student affairs. It was there he also studied Communications for his Bachelor’s degree.
Outside of his roles in higher education, Joshua is an alumnus of the Hispanic Association of College Universities internship programs and a regular volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation.
Joshua is a recent graduate of the CSULB Student Development in Higher Education Master’s Degree and is excited to be supporting students towards there personal, professional, and academic goals as a counselor. He also has a strong passion for helping student secure scholarship funds that help students pursue as many educational opportunities as possible.
Tanae Aubry
Umoja Program Coordinator
taubry@cccd.edu
(714) 895-5133
Tanae Aubry is a dedicated education professional with California State University Academic Advising experience, where she supported students through their academic journeys with a focus on holistic development and success. With a strong foundation in psychology and a passion for student advocacy, she brings both empathy and strategy to her advising approach.
Her academic journey began at California State University (CSU), Dominguez Hills, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Currently, she is pursuing her Master’s degree in Student Development in Higher Education at CSU Long Beach, further deepening her commitment to fostering inclusive, empowering learning environments.
Beyond academic advising, Tanae has contributed to program development initiatives aimed at improving student engagement and retention. She believes in meeting students where they are and helping them realize their full potential—academically, professionally, and personally.
When she’s not on campus, you can find her enjoying a yoga session, catching a basketball game, or spending time with her family. Her love for wellness, community, and mentorship continues to fuel her mission to make a positive impact in higher education.
Harry E. Anderson III
Dual Enrollment Coordinator
handersoniii@cccd.edu
Harry E. Anderson III is an education professional with decades of experience helping people achieve goals.
He previously served as the Project Director for the DOJ/OVW Campus Grant at Daytona State College, where he oversaw development and implementation of awareness and prevention programs. He took the position after previously serving as Educational Services Coordinator for TRiO Upward Bound, supervising staff and coordinating educational services for students.
Prior to his roles in higher education, Harry gained valuable experience as a teacher and corporate trainer in Japan and Hong Kong, where he delivered English communication and soft skills training at dozens of companies, universities and high schools.
Harry studied Supervision & Management at Daytona State College for his Bachelor's degree and completed his Master's degree in Educational Leadership with the University of Central Florida.
