Maadaadizi (Start a Journey)

The goal of the Maadaadizi (Start a Journey) program is to increase college motivation and readiness among American Indian high school students, increase their academic preparedness for advanced high school courses and post-secondary enrollment options, and support their success through mentorship and tutoring. Maadaadizi program is a partnership between the Office for Equity and Diversity, the Saint Paul Public School’s Indian Education Program, and the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.

The Ojibwe word “maadaadizi” means “to start a journey,” and the program aims to set historically underserved American Indian students in the Saint Paul Public School District on a journey towards higher education. Selected students participate in academic and enrichment activities including:

• Career and college planning sessions;
• College visits and opportunities to attend college fairs;
• ACT preparation assistance;
• Assistance with post-secondary enrollment options and financial aid applications;
• Tutoring and mentoring sessions;
• College information sessions for parents and families.

For more information about the Maadaadizi program, download the program brochure (PDF) or contact:

Rickey Hall
Assistant Vice President
Office for Equity and Diversity
University of Minnesota
hallrl@umn.edu
612-624-0594

Tami Johnson
Licensed School Counselor
Saint Paul Public Schools
American Indian Education Program
tami.johnson@spps.org
651-293-5191

The Maadaadizi Program is supported by a generous grant from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.