In spring 2025, the School of Information at San José State University hosted the Bridging Knowledge Scholars Closing Ceremony, celebrating Indigenous students pursuing careers in libraries, archives, and museums. The event brought together graduates, families, mentors, and leaders in library and information science to mark a milestone in Indigenous representation in the information profession.Jonna C. Paden, an enrolled member of Acoma Pueblo, attended the ceremony. Paden earned her Master of Library and Information Science degree online from SJSU in 2013 and is currently the archivist at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, president of the American Indian Library Association, and co-director of the Bridging Knowledge Project.
“The Bridging Knowledge program is more than a scholarship program—it’s a transformative community,” Paden said. “For Indigenous students pursuing careers in libraries and archives, this program creates space to grow, to be seen, and to succeed. It moves us toward a future where our presence and perspectives are recognized and respected.”
She noted that the program allows participants to embrace both culture and career. “What sets Bridging Knowledge apart is how it centers Indigenous ways of knowing,” Paden said. “Students are encouraged to remain rooted in their cultures while navigating the LIS profession. They are not asked to choose between identity and career—they’re empowered to embrace both. Through mentorship, coursework, and community, participants gain not only knowledge but belonging.”
The Bridging Knowledge program provided the opportunity for 15 Indigenous scholars to earn a MLIS degree from SJSU. To date, 11 of the 15 scholars have earned their master’s degrees, with two more expected to finish in fall 2025. Graduates Brandon Castle, Molly Ouellette, and Ekatrina Sotomayor spoke at the ceremony, and Sotomayor’s mother delivered a heartfelt message that moved many in the audience.
Paden reflected on the significance of the graduates’ paths ahead. “The graduates will go on to serve in tribal libraries, archives, and museums—where their work has real, lasting impact,” she said. “They preserve language, build digital access, advocate for proper representation, and help communities reclaim their stories. I hope many become mentors themselves and continue the cycle of support and transformation.”
Celebrating in person was especially meaningful. “It was so wonderful to attend the Bridging Knowledge closing ceremony and graduation in person,” Paden said. “The campus was alive with celebration, students in their gowns, and families beaming with pride. The pride, the joy, the families gathering—it reminded me just how meaningful this work is.”
One symbolic gesture resonated with her. “I couldn’t help but wish that a ‘First Generation’ stole had been available at my graduation,” Paden said. “I almost bought one so I could bring it home to display with pride.”
The ceremony also featured remarks from leaders and mentors. “There were many wonderful moments at the Bridging Knowledge Closing Ceremony,” Paden said. “American Library Association President Cindy Hohl shared such moving words with the students—words that I also took to heart, for they also strengthen my own journey. I was deeply honored to receive a Certificate of Recognition from Dr. Anthony Chow, director of the iSchool, for my role as a mentor. The most touching moment was listening to Ekatrina Sotomayor’s mom speak—it was hard not to get teary-eyed.”
Mentorship, Paden added, is central to the program. “It means having someone you can talk to, ask for guidance, and lean on for support. A mentor can help you navigate unfamiliar territory—not just in the workplace or school, but in all areas of life. That’s why the mentorship component of the Bridging Knowledge program is so vital. It provides Indigenous LIS students with meaningful connections to those who understand their journey, both professionally and culturally.”
She linked this to her own career experiences. “The mentors I’ve had throughout my career—and those I’ve had the privilege to mentor—bring a nurturing spirit that inspires and invigorates,” Paden said. “Programs like Bridging Knowledge remind us how powerful mentorship can be in creating belonging, confidence, and leadership for the next generation.”
Paden also stressed the importance of Indigenous voices in the field. “American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians are among the most studied peoples in the world—there is no shortage of information about us,” she said. “But what’s often missing is information created by us and for us. Tribal librarians, archivists, and museum professionals bring essential perspectives. We honor cultural protocols and deeply understand the needs of our communities—from access and preservation to education and technology.”
The closing ceremony not only celebrated the graduates’ achievements but also underscored the importance of Indigenous leadership in the LIS profession.
A video of the celebration is available here: Bridging Knowledge Closing Ceremony.
