A New Space for Student Involvement and Cultural Sharing

The new Student Involvement and Cultural Center is designed with students' success in mind. Located in the northeast corner, on the first floor of the Student Center at Taylorsville Redwood Campus, the area provides a welcoming environment for all students to network and learn.

The newly renovated space is one of three centers managed by the Student Engagement, Experience and Achievement Office (SEEA), formally known as the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs (ODMA). The new name reflects SEEA’s mission to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have access to the services and enhanced programming to help them succeed in school. SEEA Director Ulysses Tongaonevai says the name change better reflects the department’s aim to create a system that builds students up and celebrates their successes.  

The new center is more than just a place to study; it is a hub for sharing different cultures and ideas. A large bulletin board in the hallway serves as a primary access point to all the clubs, programs, and events at the College and guides students to the resources they need to succeed and the information they need to get involved. The space, complete with a lounge and kitchen area, is designed for student interaction. Cubby holes filled with items from different cultures testify to SEEA’s commitment to welcoming students from all backgrounds, and the lounge and conference room allow groups to socialize and plan events.

There are also private offices where students can meet with success coordinators, many of whom speak other languages. Coordinators provide one-on-one assistance, offer students a safe place to discuss complex topics, and connect them to the resources they need to succeed. They also motivate and encourage students to get involved in their education and help them set realistic academic goals. Scheduling an appointment to meet with a coordinator, either virtual or in-person, is encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcomed.

From guest speakers to cultural activities, SEEA programming and events offer opportunities for learning and building connections. SEEA events are more than just a chance for students to take a break from their studies, says Miss Glory Johnson-Stanton, manager of the new center. “SEEA is a gateway to a vibrant and dynamic student community — a chance to step out of the classroom and into a world of friendships and experiences that enrich education.”

Ulysses says that SEEA plans to hold an open house celebration to show off the new Student Involvement and Cultural Center and inform everyone about the department name change. The name change and SEEA’s URL will go into effect on May 9. The new URL will be SLCC.edu/SEEA. The official announcement can be read here.  

 

The center is open now, however, and students are welcome to come and experience the new space and learn more about how SEEA can help them on their educational journey. Umme Haq, a student who works at the center and helped develop the new department name, says, “It is a place where you take your challenges and go through a journey from the impossible to the possible.” She urges everyone to come check it out. 

 

The two other centers, operating under the SEEA umbrella, the Gender and Sexuality Student Resource Center (GSSRC) and the Dream Center located at West Valley, will retain their names and continue to welcome and serve all students. Located on SLCC’s South Campus, the GSSRC provides information and support to all students with resources related to gender and sexuality. Likewise, the Dream Center in West Valley is open to everyone and offers information for undocumented students.