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MCC News

MCC Launches Diversity Conference Series (10/02/2018)

Note: This is an ARCHIVED news release. Information in this article may have changed since this was published.

Interior of MCC's PRISM Multicultural CenterMCC’s first Diversity Conference on Oct. 4, The Resegregation of Higher Education: How Diverse Are Our Spaces?, will challenge colleges and universities to examine ways to create inclusive, effective learning spaces where diversity and equity are both respected and fostered. Speakers will talk about diverse millennials in college and the importance of creating a campus climate that is inclusive of all learners.

Studies find that a college’s physical environment can positively impact students’ ability to interact with others and build valuable connections. These interactions facilitate campus involvement, build a sense of belonging, and contribute to students’ retention and academic success.

At campuses across the country, the shifting demographics of the college population present new demands and debates over how higher education institutions can foster inclusion and be responsive to the needs of students of all backgrounds, orientations, lifestyles, viewpoints and persuasions.

If current demographic trends continue, the majority of Americans will be people of color by 2060, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Other forms of diversity—including the LGBTQ community—have also achieved wider recognition and inclusion in recent years through legislation, legal rulings and greater social acceptance.

MCC has established spaces that support students outside the classroom:
    -- PRISM Multicultural Center develops and hosts events, programs and services aimed at fostering cross-cultural dialogues and understanding. It also provides informational resources and space for the exercising of cultural and religious traditions.

    -- Global Education & International Services office provides support services to international, immigrant and refugee students; promotes global and cross-cultural understanding through campus-wide events; and provides resources for study abroad opportunities for students.

    -- Veterans’ Resource Center and Veteran Services Office provide mentoring, one-on-one tutoring, personal counseling, career planning and a resource room to military veteran and active-duty students.

    -- DWIGHT (Doing What is Good & Healthy Together) provides access to food for those experiencing personal and financial hardships. It also teaches food literacy and connects individuals to resources at MCC and in the local community.

    -- Single Stop connects students and family members to free and low-cost community resources and services, including assistance with food benefits, transportation, child care, health care and tax preparation. All services at MCC are free, confidential and centralized in one office.

    -- Wellness Promotion areas encourage holistic health through educational events and information on how to access community resources. They feature an interfaith room and a lactation room. Gender-neutral restrooms are available on both campuses.

Photo caption: PRISM Multicultural Center at MCC

Media Contact:
Hency Yuen-Eng
Government and Community Relations
585-292-3063
hyuen-eng@monroecc.edu