Meet the Team

Director’s welcome

Hello and welcome!

Whether you’re new to UC Santa Cruz or continuing your journey here, we’re so glad you’re part of our community. The AIRC is a space for connection, celebration, and support—created by and for Native and Indigenous students.

Throughout the year, you’ll find opportunities to engage with cultural events, community gatherings, and workshops that honor identity, uplift voices, and build community. Our team, including AIRC interns, is here to support you every step of the way.

I invite you to visit the center, meet the team, and make this space your home away from home. If you have questions about academics, basic needs, financial aid, housing, or student resources, please reach out—there’s a whole team of people here to support you.

You belong here, and we’re honored to be part of your journey at UC Santa Cruz.

Respectfully,

Angel Riotutar

AIRC Director

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” –Barack Obama