Programs and Events
Dia de los Muertos
The Multicultural Center has fostered and maintained an outgoing partnership with the Office of Campus Ministry, hosting their annual celebration of the Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in the Fall semester at the end of October, first days of November. El Dia de Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) is a Mexican celebration observed throughout Latin America to celebrate, remember, and prepare special foods in honor of those who have departed. The event features activities tables featuring sugar skulls pumpkins, day of the dead lanterns, bag decorating, face/hand painting, traditional food, music and an interfaith service commemorating the cultural significance of the celebration. Additionally in connection with the celebration, the Cultural Centers staff host an informational board about the cultural significance of Dia de los Muertos, as well as space for students to write an intention or name of a loved one for the Ofrenda (altar) and prayer service, for whom a candle will be “lit.”
Donning of the Stole
The Donning of the Stole Ceremony, established in Spring 2019, celebrates the achievements of students from historically marginalized identities nearing graduation. Over the years, it has become a multicultural and official Commencement event at the ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ. Students can apply to participate and choose a stole representing their identity, including:
- Kente Stole: For Black, African American, and African ancestry.
- Hispanic/Latino Stole: For Hispanic/Latino/Latinx/Latina, Afro-Latino, and African ancestry.
- APIDA Red Stole: For Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American identities.
- Native American Stole: For Native American and Alaskan Native heritage.
- Multiracial Stole: For individuals of two or more racial identities.
Holidays Around the World
The Multicultural Center hosted the first annual “Holidays Around the World” event on the Fall 2024 semester. This new tradition will strive to establish a partnership and collaboration with members of diversity groups on campus to host informational tables honoring and celebrating holidays represented with their cultural and ethnic traditions represented in their clubs. The event will also offer activity tables for students to decorate ornaments, painting, and offer students a space to play table games and taste sweet and treats from different countries. The event will also feature a cultural PowerPoint presentation of holiday celebrations around the world with holiday music from countries represented at the event.