Office of Multicultural Student Life

Mission Multicultural Student Life contributes to an inclusive learning environment by enhancing institutional efforts in retaining and graduating students prepared for a diverse global society. We promote the academic success, equality, and leadership development of students through programs and services that holistically address cultural, educational, and civic growth. Vision Statement Nationally recognized department that innovatively promotes diversity and inclusion to empower all university students in order to impact societal equality throughout the state of Tennessee and across the world. Values E – equality and social justice M – motivation P – progressive partnering O – opportunities and dialogue W – welcoming student-focused environment E – ethical leadership R – respect and civility M – mentorship and student success E – excellence in academics N – new and innovative practices T – transformative education

Multicultural Mentoring Program Peer mentoring designed to provide positive campus survival skills to first-year students. Diversity and Multicultural Education Provides programs to enhance knowledge and appreciation of diversity. Academic Support Unit Supports and promotes academic success. Student Organizations Asian American Association Black Cultural Programming Committee Brothers United for Excellence Latin American Student Organization Native American Student Association TASC Force

Academic Support Unit Book Loan Program The Book Loan Program allows students to borrow up to TWO books free of charge. Students must return the borrowed books at the end of the semester. Tutoring Program The Tutoring Program provides free tutoring to students in a variety of subject areas including: math, biology, chemistry, and language arts. Tutoring takes place in the Frieson Black Cultural Center, Perkins Hall (College of Engineering), and Clement Residence Hall. Finals Prep Study Sessions At the end of each semester, the Academic Support Unit provides students with a quiet and comfortable environment to study for their final exams. Free tutoring, Stress relief activities, and snacks are available for students.

MSL Welcome Back Celebration Fall Open House Diversity Dialogues Multiple Identities – race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability Campus-Wide Diversity Dialogue Symposium Campus-wide diversity symposium Black Issues Conference Forum for research and discussion on issues facing the African- American community Multicultural Graduation Celebration Celebration of academic achievement MSL Diversity Educators Student leaders promoting social justice and diversity awareness Diversity and Multicultural Education Additional Programs: Heritage Month Celebrations Kernel Konvo: Film Series Mahogany Soul Café

Black Cultural Programming Committee BCPC is a student organization that develops programs and activities to enhance awareness of African- American culture and national issues on campus and the local community. The organization sponsors a variety of cultural, recreational, and social events. Keshia Knight Pulliam Caribbean Splash Jam

Latin American Student Organization (LASO) Increases the interest and awareness of all students to the Latin culture Active in the Hispanic community through volunteer activities Events held: Hola Festival, Culture Nights, Salsa al Aire Libre TASC (Taking Action for Social Conscience) Force Raises awareness about human/social issues around the world. Helps the community through altruistic acts of service. Educates the campus community to ignite selfless activities for those in desperate need. Asian American Association (AAA) Promotes awareness of the Asian American community

Brothers United for Excellence Brothers United for Excellence seeks to support the persistence of male students of color by providing academic, social and professional resources, as well as, promoting student engagement at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the surrounding Knoxville community. Primary Areas of Focus: Academic Excellence Community Engagement Social Empowerment Professional & Career Development Health and Wellness Office of Multicultural Student Life, Men of Color Initiative

Multicultural Mentoring Program Provides: personal support assistance social guidance positive campus survival skills to first year students of color Develops activities and interactions with upperclassmen who have found success during their college career. Enhances the University of Tennessee's efforts in recruiting, retaining, and graduating underrepresented students.

“Connect” Living and Learning Community First Year Studies 101 and English 101 in fall and English 102 in spring. Living and learning environment in Clement Hall. Post orientation welcoming event. Monthly or bi-monthly events to promote social, intellectual and professional development. Students will participate in:

Frieson Black Cultural Center Opened in June 2002 Named in June 2015 in honor of $1 million gift from UT Alumni, Ron and Don Frieson. Located at 1800 Melrose Avenue More than 13,700 square feet The Frieson Black Cultural Center is a place to gather, learn, share ideas and experiences. A place for ALL students.

Frieson Black Cultural Center Features: Administrative Offices Art Gallery Computer Lab Conference Room Library/Reading Room Multipurpose Rooms Student Lounge Student Organizational Suite Tutorial Suites Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday~8:00 AM-10:00 PM Friday~8:00 AM-6:00 PM Saturday~10:00 AM-6:00 PM Sunday~2:00 PM-10:00 PM

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