Vanguard University

Vanguard University's Student Body President Matthew Holgate recently joined the conversation for Native American Heritage Month at a virtual colloquium hosted by the Orange County Department of Education Newsroom, which serves some of the county's most vulnerable student populations. The organization is a hub for education news hosted by OC Superintendent Dr. Al Mijares that supports 28 local districts with professional development, legal and fiscal guidance, payroll services, and student enrichment.

Matthew is a member of the Navajo Nation, a government and people that extends into the states of Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. When is he is not at home or serving the student body, he continues his collegiate endeavor studying communication and hopes to work for higher education upon graduation. He's driven to bringing anti-human trafficking awareness regarding Native Americans. 

He participated on the panel on November 30, which was joined by representatives from neighboring colleges, including professors from Chapman University, California Baptist University, the University of Arizona, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. 

“As a student, I've struggled with the complexities of my identity and culture. I think it was different for me to see how we are represented or celebrated by those who are not Native American. I cherish being able to advocate for my voice and my Native American heritage." 

Read the full story or watch the interview here.