Above an image of a collection of sticky notes in the UndocuPack office at the University of Nevada, Reno, left by UndocuPack supporters.
At 29, Janet Najera leads the undocumented student program at UNR, known as UndocuPack, which describes itself as offering “assistance with on-campus and community resource referrals, financial aid and academic support, basic needs, mental health, physical well-being and more.”
Najera works closely with campus individuals from undocumented and mixed-status families, helping them find resources, guidance, and a community on campus.
“As a first-generation student, I wanted to be in a space where I could support others in similar circumstances,” she explained. “It’s not only a professional role, but it speaks to who I am as an individual.”
Najera grew up in a family where education and community were central. Both her parents were once undocumented, and some relatives still face challenges to remain in the United States. Her grandmother emphasized the value of learning and supporting others, lessons Najera brings to her work.
“Being first-generation is something I had to navigate, learning how to apply for college and how to attend college,” she said. “But it also comes with successes. Being first-generation is really beautiful.”
Najera earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UNR and is pursuing a PhD. She started as a social services coordinator and has spent five years growing the program.
The program began in 2015 through student advocacy. It has grown from a small effort to one with a recognized logo and several student interns. “We started with one intern, and last year we had about seven,” she said. “More student participation lets us create more services and provide stronger support.”
Najera connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and career opportunities that don’t require a Social Security number. She also works with them before they enroll at UNR.
“I’ve worked with students starting in high school who have now graduated,” she said. “We guide them through the entire journey in higher education.”
Collaboration is a big part of the program. Najera works with Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada, Northern Nevada Legal Aid, the Northern Nevada Food Bank, and on-campus offices like financial aid and the multicultural center. “We’ve built a strong community, and the outside community has really incorporated itself into the program to help us,” she explained.
Najera says she wants to keep expanding the program to make sure all students know they have a place on campus. “It’s important for students to know they can attend higher education,” she said. “Misconceptions in the community can limit what they believe is possible. Our goal is to grow the program and provide more support to our students and our community.”
Her family has been a constant support. “My mom only got her education up to sixth grade, so for her to know I was serving in higher education was a big thing,” she said. “My parents have been my biggest supporters.”
Najera’s experience as a first-generation student helps her connect with students personally. While she isn’t undocumented, she makes sure students know, “I’m there as a support and that I’ll listen no matter what,” she said.
She encourages students and families to reach out. “It’s crucial for people to know we’re here to help our community and our students,” she concluded. “There’s a space and support for them here. They can always reach out, and we’ll help them navigate whatever they need.”
Reporting by James Perez shared with Our Town Reno
