For Dr. Kassie Phillips-Alexander, Umoja is not just a program—it is a life-shaping journey that came full circle.
Now serving as an Umoja Counselor at Laney College, Dr. Phillips-Alexander once stood where many of her students are today: uncertain about the future, hopeful for guidance, and searching for a place to belong.
Laney’s Umoja-UBAKA program exists to enhance the cultural and educational experiences of African, African American, and other students by affirming identity, honoring student voice, and promoting empowerment through culturally responsive curriculum focused on the Black experience. All students are welcome to participate.
For Dr. Phillips-Alexander, that mission first became real in 2004—when she joined Umoja as a student.
“I remember entering Umoja feeling uncertain and apprehensive about starting a new chapter in my life,” she recalled. At the time, the program was known as Daraja at Chabot College.
Encouraged by a high-school peer, she took a leap of faith.
“I didn’t realize that I was stepping into a community rooted in collective responsibility, academic excellence, and intentional support for Black students.”
That experience would shape her entire professional path.
“Umoja taught me that students are allowed to be imperfect and still deserving of support, guidance, and accountability,” she said. “My journey included challenges and setbacks, but Umoja consistently affirmed my potential and reinforced that growth is a process.”
Originally planning to become a therapist, her work within Umoja—and pivotal life experiences—shifted her focus toward higher education counseling.
“I recognized the transformative role culturally responsive counseling plays in student success and retention.”
One figure stood out early: her Umoja counselor, Dr. Jeanne Wilson .
“She was the first instructor who ever closed the door on me for being late,” recalled Dr. Phillips-Alexander. “But she followed that with a powerful lesson about expectations, accountability, and life.”
That balance of care and high standards—what Umoja calls “Raising the Intentional and Deliberate”—stuck with her.
“She guided me toward a major aligned with my strengths and long-term goals. Her mentorship influenced my decision to pursue a Master’s in Social Work.”
Dr. Kassie Phillips-Alexander & Dr. Jeanne Wilson
In 2014, fate intervened.
“I ran into Dr. Jeanne Wilson during a time Umoja was searching for a counselor,” she said. “I interviewed for the position, and the rest is history.”
It became her first role in higher education—guided again by the mentor who once shaped her student experience.
Today, that philosophy drives everything she does.
“To me, it means leading with purpose, compassion, and accountability in every interaction,” she explained. “It requires intentional decisions that uplift students, center their humanity, and create pathways for excellence.”
Students know exactly what to expect.
“I work from a place of care, trust, and accountability—often called my ‘Auntie phase,’” she describes. “They know I’ll advocate for them and also hold them to high expectations.”
She helps students navigate challenges ranging from housing insecurity and food access to academic preparation and mental-health needs—while building belonging through Umoja programming, apparel, partnerships with faculty, and open-door “porch talks.”
“Listening is one of the most powerful tools we have,” she said.
Laney holds special meaning for Dr. Phillips-Alexander.
“I was born and raised in Oakland,” she shared. “I spent many days on this campus taking dance classes, attending the flea market with my mom and grandmother, building memories.”
“Laney represents family. It’s a place where I see myself, support people who look like me, and give back to the community that raised me.”
What keeps her motivated after years in education?
“Student success—and student need,” she said simply. “Being a consistent presence in students’ lives fuels my commitment.”
She hopes to see higher education invest more deeply in equity-centered programs.
“I want to see sustainable funding so Umoja isn’t treated as an add-on, but as essential.”
And for students just beginning their college journey, her message is clear:
“Show up. Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to take up space. You belong in higher education—and you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.”
Learn more about Laney’s Umoja-UBAKA program and discover how students can connect with a community dedicated to belonging, leadership, and academic success.