Eight programs focused on promoting diversity across the Syracuse University campus will benefit from the inaugural installment of the Grants for Diverse Programming. The grants are the result of a new initiative established by Syracuse University's Division of Student Affairs and implemented by the University's Office of Multicultural Affairs and Student Activities Office.
"Ultimately, it is our students who will benefit from this new challenge grant program because it offers another funding resource for innovative and educational diversity programs that advance the college experience here at Syracuse University," says James Duah-Agyeman, director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. "We were encouraged by the interest of student organizations in this program and impressed with the scope of the programs and the caliber of the activities proposed."
Consistent with the Division of Student Affairs 2001-2006 Strategic Plan, the Grants for Diverse Programming will assist in delivering services and programs that maintain the identity of individual groups, promote student success, foster a greater appreciation for diversity among all members of the University community, and improve the institutional environment. A total of $5,000 was awarded in this inaugural year.
Applications were solicited from student organizations, as well as academic and administrative departments, and evaluated based on criteria that included development of collaborative and co-sponsored events and creation of new and/or innovative programs that give dimension to the division's diversity commitment.
The winners of these grants and their respective programs are:
? The African American Male Congress, for the Talented Tenth Leadership Institute, which provides workshops that promote the growth and development of African American male student leaders.
? The Black Communications Society, with co-sponsors NANBPWC Inc., the Black Artist League, the Black Celestial Choir Ensemble and Fashions Conscience, to fund SOUL Concert 2002, a live concert headlining SU student performances in soul, rhythm and blues, jazz and gospel music. The concert is planned for April.
? The Goldstein Activities Board (with support from the Chancellor's Feinstone Grants for Multicultural Initiatives, Perc Place, Hendricks Chapel and the Department of Sociology), to fund a "diversity mural" created by local artist Amy Bartell. The creation of the mural will take place over two weeks, during which time student organizations will have an opportunity to coordinate various programs about diversity and other issues identified by the mural.
? The Latino Greek Council and its co-sponsor, the Office of Greek Life, to fund the Cultural Cafe, a night dedicated to celebrating Latino culture by featuring a full traditional Latino dinner followed by Latin music and dancing.
? The RAICES Dance Troupe, to fund a Latino Dance Celebration, which would educate the campus and surrounding communities about the richness and diversity of Latino culture.
? The Society of Professional Journalists, with co-sponsor Radio Television News Directors Association, to fund a three-day conference that will feature a diverse agenda of speakers, including a journalist from a leading gay and lesbian publication.
? Community Darkrooms and the Black Artist League, for costs associated with a spring 2002 Free Cultural Film Series.
? Students Advocating Multicultural Equality (SAME) and the Multicultrual Living Learning Community, to fund costs associated with the MeditArabian Nights Cultural Program. The program was held on Feb. 28 and was attended by 194 people.
