The Diversity Center offers a diverse range of programs, activities and workshops that are educational, cultural and social. Committed to supporting and promoting multicultural awareness, the staff develops program that increase understanding and appreciation of all cultural differences by familiarizing the campus community with the contribution and histories of African American, American Indian, Asian, Latino/Hispanic, International, LGBTQ, White, Gender and all Cultural Diverse Students.
Initiatives
In alignment with our mission to foster a supportive environment for all students that values and encourages individuals of all backgrounds and identities to engage with our programs and initiatives, no individuals will be excluded from full and equal participation in the activities, services, and functions of this program based on their identification as a member of a protected class. We welcome the participation of all members of the UIS Community as their interests and our programs align.
Men of Color Initiative
Black Male Initiative is a program established in 2010 by the UIS Diversity Center intended to increase, encourage, and support the inclusion and educational success of male students of color, particularly African- American males (AAM). The program assists students in both their academic and professional endeavors, and promotes and advocates for an improved educational experience and quality of life at the University of Illinois Springfield.
As of Fall 2019, the Black Male Initiative has transformed to the Men of Color Initiative (MCI) to further promote an inclusive and welcoming male empowerment environment for all male identifying students.
As a male empowerment program designed to address the needs of undergraduate men of color, the program encourages participants to exceed personally and professionally while gaining valuable leadership skills at UIS. The initiative endeavors to and has provided educational programs, developmental mentoring opportunities, and co-curricular experiences and activities to assist Men of Color to be successful.
Women of Color Initiative
The Women of Color Initiative was established in the Fall of 2021 by the UIS Diversity Center to support, develop, and empower dynamic women of color by intentionally increasing and encouraging the support of inclusion and success on women identifying students of color. The program assists students in both, their academic and professional endeavors, promotes and advocates for an improved educational experience and quality of life at the University of Illinois Springfield.
Hispanic/Latinx Initiative
Hispanic/Latinx Initiative includes programs and activities designed to create a supportive and welcoming environment where Hispanic/Latinx students can thrive academically and socially, develop leadership skills, prepare for a successful professional career, and embrace and promote their diverse cultures while feeling at home on the UIS campus and in the Springfield community.
We will take a group of students to the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI) National Conference in February. This is a great opportunity to meet and socialize with other Hispanic/Latin@ college students from all over the country. You will gain leadership skills, learn about future career opportunities, and attend workshops led by prominent leaders in their respective fields of politics, education, technology, and more. For more information the Diversity Center.
Heritage Months: Through out the year, the Diversity Center will collaborate with a variety of student organizations and offices on campus to develop programs that celebrate and educate about the rich cultural heritage of the UIS community.