1. Unit Overview ESC FIG Classes Major Accomplishments Outcomes
Assessment of the Ethnic Student Center,
Assistant Director: Lafayette Baker
Principal Investigator: Christina Van Wingerden; Assessment, Training & Special Projects
Poster by: Ben Spicer
Unit Overview
Mission Statement
The ESC is a community that supports historically underrepresented ethnic students and allies by providing a social atmosphere and inclusive environment where we engage in identity exploration and strive for cultural awareness and academic excellence
The ESC’s theoretical frames is adopted by Beverly Daniel Tatum’s article, The ABC approach to creating climates of engagement on diverse campuses (2000).
Affirming Identity
Stronger self-identities: The ESC is committed to providing a space where underrepresented students can explore, honor, celebrate, and affirm all identities.
Building Community
Improved community: The ESC values community building as a tool to improve a student’s inclusion on Western’s campus. Community building also provides an opportunity for intercultural interactions which stimulates greater cultural understanding
Cultivating Leadership
Increased leadership: As a student progresses through affirming their identity and building a sense of community they begin to participate in a variety of leadership opportunities.
GOALS
Uphold the ESC Mission Statement
Contribute to the retention and graduation of students of color at Western
Maintain an inclusive and safe space for students of all identities
ESC FIG Classes
The ESC will partner with Shurla Thibou and two other classes to create an ESC FIG in the winter quarter. The FIG will focus on identity development and support as it pertains to race/ethnic relations. This FIG will be geared towards ESC students who attended the conference, utilize the ESC, and are a part of the affiliated clubs. This FIG will be continuing in its second year to bring together a “cohort” model in the ESC where it can transition into a mentor program, after a 3-4 year turn around.
Strategic Goals
Create a campaign to increase the number of ESC students to meet with the in-house Academic Support Coordinator to aid in their persistence and retention.
Reassess the current marketing and outreach plan with the goal of increasing the number of students participating in ESC workshops and events.
Create open communication/transparency with students/university/community concerning the progress of the ESC relocation project.
Assess the current model of the annual ESC conference.
Major Accomplishments
Approval of ESC Referendum
New Organizational Structure
Additional Student Employees
Alumni Outreach
Education and Social Justice department collaborations
ESC Student Executive Committee
Academic Advisor in ESC
Outcomes
Students can strive for a “safe space” within the higher education environment, thereby increasing persistence
Students are able to understand the complexities of organizing a variety of events and activities
Students are able to explore and express topics related to ethnicity, culture, class, gender, diversity, and social justice