Family within community

“I like the feeling of community here,” Memorie said. “Not just with my Native American people but with everyone – all those people turn into family.”

Feeling isolated in her first university experience, biology major Memorie Henry ’25, a proud member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, longed for the close community she'd known on her reservation. Disheartened by the lack of connection, she considered transferring and soon discovered University of Redlands' Native Student Programs (NSP), sparking new hope for a supportive community.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do, but knew I wanted to go to school out here,” Memorie said about choosing Redlands. “I saw Native Student Programs was something offered and thought ‘this is the one!’”

NSP provides Indigenous students like Memorie with leadership opportunities and a strong sense of community. Since joining Redlands, she’s found a true home in its supportive network.

“When I first met Nora, Elizabeth, and Karalee, they welcomed me with open arms and I could be myself with them,” Memorie said. “All three of them are like my parents now.”

Through her NSP internship, connecting with fellow Native American students, and joining the inclusive Native American Student Union (NASU), Memorie has finally found a place to belong.

“I like the feeling of community here,” Memorie said. “Not just with my Native American people but with everyone – all those people turn into family.”

Through NASU, Memorie has served in leadership roles including secretary and treasurer. She has also participated in NASU-sponsored events, like October’s Culture Not Costumes Fashion Show, where Native American, Pacific Islander, Black, and Latinx students showcased traditional regalia and shared their cultural traditions. Memorie said such events keep her connected to her culture.

“At my old school, I didn’t have these types of resources,” Memorie said. “NSP and NASU drew me in and kept me here.”

While reflecting on moving across the country to become a Bulldog, Memorie advised future U of R Native American students to keep an open mind.

“Life in college is very different from life on the rez [reservation] if you are from the rez,” Memorie said. “It's a big world out here. Life isn't always going to be fair or great to deal with, but just keep an open mind, and you'll get through it. Coming to University of Redlands was one of the greatest decisions I have made because I not only found a community that was welcoming, but I found a family within that community.”

Learn more about Native Student Programs.