Student Organizations
A place to lead and thrive
UC Santa Cruz is home to several vibrant student-led organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting historically underserved communities, celebrating cultural diversity, and promoting academic success and social justice. From creative outlets like TWANAS and Rainbow Theater to advocacy and retention efforts led by E², Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) the First Generation Initiative, and Student Alliance of Native American/Indigenous Peoples (SANAI), these programs foster connection, empowerment, and visibility for students of color and Native students. Explore each to learn how they contribute to a more inclusive and engaged campus community.
Communities of Color and Native American Student Press Collective (TWANAS)
The Communities of Color and Native American Student Press Collective—formerly known as the Third World and Native American Student Press Collective and also known as TWANAS—is one of the oldest student-run magazines at UC Santa Cruz. Dedicated to providing a media outlet for students of color, TWANAS publishes approximately two issues per academic year and holds weekly staff meetings, with times and locations updated quarterly. The collective is always open to new staff members and submissions. For more information about joining or contributing, email twanaspress@gmail.com and follow @twanas_press on Instagram and Twitter.
Engaging Education (E²)
E² is a student-initiated outreach and retention center focused on student engagement and academic excellence. It serves as a supportive and dynamic space dedicated to addressing the low rates of recruitment, retention, and graduation among historically underserved students in higher education. E² empowers students to engage, learn, and organize around issues of social justice, community building, and student advocacy. As a home for student power and energy, E² provides an inclusive, equitable, and diverse environment where students can find their voice and build collective strength through organizing.
Rainbow Theater
Rainbow Theater was established in 1994 with the mission of promoting unity, visibility, and cultural understanding within and beyond the UC Santa Cruz community. By breaking down cultural barriers and providing a platform for the creative expression of diverse ethnic communities, Rainbow Theater fosters dialogue, celebrates diversity, and builds meaningful connections. Proceeds from its Fall performances, along with support from sponsors, help fund the Rainbow Professional Series—a program that brings professional performers and free public shows to the campus and broader community.
Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
The mission of SACNAS (Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) is to encourage Chicano, Latino, and Native American students to pursue graduate education and obtain the advanced degrees necessary for careers in scientific research, leadership, and teaching. The SACNAS office offers information on a wide range of opportunities for underrepresented students and professionals in the sciences. Each year, SACNAS hosts a national conference—typically in mid-October—that features scientific symposia, keynote speakers, professional development sessions, and student poster and oral presentations. This event provides a valuable forum for students, faculty, and professionals to share research, build networks, address challenges faced by minorities in science, and explore educational and career pathways. For more information, contact SACNAS at (831) 459-0170 or email info@sacnas.org.
Student Alliance of Native American/Indigenous Peoples (SANAI)
SANAI is a student-run organization that raises awareness of Indigenous issues and provides academic and moral support for Native students at UCSC. Connect with them on social media @sanaiucsc, or email sanaiatucsc@gmail.com to learn more.