Programs and Services

Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many comprehensive and proactive, educational and cultural programs and services of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, which include but are not limited to:

Campus Diversity Programming

Annual programs that explore awareness of cultural differences, assessment of possible prejudices, and the facilitation of desired behavior changes. These opportunities provide the campus community with positive opportunities to explore the impact of culture, race, gender, and other social conditions on individuals, peers, colleagues, and on the academic environment. Each year is highlighted by major events such as theater companies and nationally recognized speakers.

Leadership Programming

A number of leadership activities and programs are provided to promote student development and involvement in all levels of the campus community. These occasions enhance existing opportunities and focus on coalition building, cultural empowerment and racial or ethnic issues relevant to students and organizations. Students are equipped with practical leadership and interpersonal skills to help prepare them for succeeding in a multicultural society.

Support Groups

Two support groups - Brothers With Purpose (BWP) and African-American Women Speaking Our Minds on Empowerment (AWSOME) - exist to promote connections between students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Involvement in these groups encourages closer communication; promotes personal growth and development; and contributes to the overall educational experiences of students.    

Multicultural Graduation

Each year students of color that are graduating class members are individually recognized and rewarded by the Office of Multicultural Affairs. The program was created to recognize students who survived the rigors of college and are taking the next steps in their lives. They are rewarded at this intimate event for outstanding accomplishments such as scholastic achievement, community service and leadership. This special celebration honors not only graduation, but culture as well.

Personal Counseling and Advising

The Assistant Dean maintains contact with and monitors the grades and progress of all students of color. In addition, to assist with their adjustment, individual counseling is provided in which students may get assistance with curricular, co-curricular, or extra-curricular matters. An open door policy allows each student the opportunity to seek the advice they need when they need it.

Serving Our Students (SOS) Peer Mentor Program

First year students are assigned upper-class mentors who assist with the transition from high school to college by helping them become oriented (academically, physically and socially) to the Rhodes community. This program offers one-on-one assistance, structured monthly group meetings, and workshops and programs to supplement the needs of students.

ALANA Orientation Dinner

This session provides African American, Latino/a, Asian, and Native American students with important information to help facilitate their transition to college life at Rhodes.