Office of Multicultural Programs
The Office of Multicultural Programs was established at Maryville University in 1993 to meet the social and academic needs of underrepresented students. The primary mission of the office, still, is to support underrepresented students in their transition from high school to college and through graduation. That mission has, however, since expanded to meet the co-curricular needs of the campus by developing, implementing and assessing educationally meaningful cultural programs that are comprehensive; are intentional; model the way for students in their content and concept; are logistically excellent; and are generationally relevant, understanding contemporary students’ needs, interests, and potential program opportunities.
In an effort to develop educationally meaningful cultural programs, the Office of Multicultural Programs has adopted the Tri-Sector Model of Cultural Practice as its framework for creating educationally meaningful cultural practices. Our hope in adopting this model is to create programs that will “contribute toward predetermined actions such as learning, appreciating, understanding, or engaging culture” (Jenkins & Walton, 2008, p. 93).
The Tri-Sector Model of Cultural Practice suggests that cultural programming “be approached as a comprehensive portfolio of cultural programs that provide holistic grown opportunities for students” as opposed to a series of programs and events that have no connection whatsoever. The model recommended three critical spheres around which cultural programming should be developed: cultural education, cultural engagement, and cultural development.
Cultural Education
Cultural education programs allow students to interact with the critical knowledge needed to fully understand and focus on the history, practices, and infrastructure of various cultures. Lectures, panels, and brown bag discussions have been typical offerings (Harper, 2008, p. 94).
Cultural Engagement
These social programs typically include performances, entertainment, and social interaction activities. Festivals, multi-ethnic luncheons, and performance troupes are examples of cultural engagement programs (Harper, 2008, p. 97).
Cultural Development
These programs address holistic development of students, with particular attention to how culture affects leadership, professional orientation, and wellness. They also make important contributions to student understanding, connectedness, and ethos toward their personal cultures and communities (Jenkins, 2003 as cited in Harper, 2008, p. 98).
In addition to cultural programming for the campus, the Office of Multicultural Programs engages students of color in a variety of ways to assist them with their acclimation to campus by connecting them with members of their peer group and by helping to create strong links to the campus and community. Some programs students of color engage in are: Nia Kuumba (Center of Spirituality for African/African American Women); Sista 2 Sista; and various cultural events within the St. Louis community throughout the year.
The Office of Multicultural Programs is located in room 102 of the Donius University Center in the Student Life Office. If you have questions or concerns, e-mail or call Dr. Christie Cruise-Harper, Assistant Dean and Director of Multicultural Programs; 314.529.9684 or 314.529.6600.