About the Office of Multicultural Programs

Mission

In collaboration with the VU campus and community, the overall mission of the Office of Multicultural Programs (OMP) is to improve human relations by creating and supporting a community of learners that value and support cultural diversity and multicultural education.

Purpose

The Office of Multicultural Programs (OMP) provides holistic programs and services that support and enhance the academic, social, physical, intellectual, and spiritual development of historically underrepresented students enrolled at VU. A variety of co-curricular and extra-curricular programs are planned, coordinated, and offered to assist student transition and retention, promote inclusive communities, foster moral and civic responsibility, provide opportunities for inter-group and intra-group learning, and offer leadership development and mentoring opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

VU students will increase their awareness of diverse American cultures by attending cultural programs, cultural dinners, and other events.

VU Students will develop and practice leadership skills through their active involvement in: program planning committees, SMART Scholars Program, and/or student organizations.

VU students will improve their leadership skills by attending workshops, presentations, and conferences.

VU students will interact positively with students from diverse backgrounds through planned collaborative endeavors, involvement and participation in various programs, joining student organizations, helping plan events, and attending social functions.

VU students will enhance their understanding of social problems (e.g. race relations, equality, justice, privilege, etc.) through their attendance and/or participation in programs that offer opportunities for in-depth discussion, debate, and dialogue.

VU students will learn how to improve human relations through active involvement in such venues as Peace & Social Justice Symposium, Study Circles on Race Relations, service organizations, social action activities, etc.

VU students will learn about campus resources and support services available to assist them academically.

VU students will participate in and engage in Mentoring and Retention activities to enhance their academic success.