Philisophical Foundation

The Center for Multicultural Affairs reflects Saint Michael’s commitment to a campus and a world that values every human being, and supports and celebrates their uniqueness, experiences, and contributions. The Center contributes to the personal and intellectual development of all students.   We welcome and challenge all students to be self-reflective and to actively pursue the creation of an inclusive community on campus centered around mutual respect and acceptance.  

The Center realizes that exploring issues of diversity and multiculturalism cannot be devoid of a historical framework or the historicity of race, class  and ethnicities in a country that is arguably the most socially, racially and ethnically diverse in the world. We also recognize that achieving diversity on campus requires more than celebrating differences or similarities. Thus, we seek to engage students, faculty and staff intellectually and tangibly to explore the diversity and multiculturalism within as well as without.

In an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, the ability to understand the people and cultures one encounters, as well as oneself, in ways that defy and transcend superficial barriers of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and class that often impede human connection and relationship, are essential and indispensable components of personal and intellectual development. In this vein, the commitment of the MSA office to multiculturalism and diversity reflects a deep commitment to your success as an individual both on campus and in the world.

The Center for Multicultural Affairs efforts include:

  • Acting as liaison between multicultural students and the Saint Michael’s community
  • Planning and implementing educational and social programs to provide the campus community with opportunities to explore issues of diversity and multiculturalism
  • Celebrating diversity as a valued and indispensable aspect and strength at Saint Michael’s College
  • Assisting in the recruitment and retention of students from diverse backgrounds
  • Providing leadership opportunities and training to students around issues of diversity and multiculturalism
  • Creating opportunities for students and staff to engage in meaningful dialogue about diversity and multicultural issues impacting the campus and the world
  • Recognizing and encouraging students’ academic excellence and  dedication to community service at Saint Michael’s College
  • Serving as a resource to Residence Life in its work to create inclusive and safe living environments

The Center for Multicultural Affairs is advisor to the Martin Luther King Jr. Society, Diversity Coalition, and Alianza, and also coordinates with other organizations on campus and in the local communities that are interested in diversity and multiculturalism.