SUNY Delhi's Multicultural Center Celebrates First Anniversary

A "sanctuary" for students to learn and belong

by Riikka Olson

Delhi, NY (10/21/2019) — This fall, SUNY Delhi proudly celebrates the one-year anniversary of the MOSAIC Multicultural Center on campus. Devoted to fostering awareness of topics related to diversity, inclusion, and identity development, MOSAIC has quickly become a vibrant and essential part of campus life at SUNY Delhi.

"SUNY Delhi has a very diverse student body with about 48% of our students representing racially and ethnically marginalized identities," said Jarvis Marlow-McCowin, Assistant Director of MOSAIC. "MOSAIC is a welcoming space that not only serves those students but also uses our diversity as an opportunity to educate and benefit all students at Delhi."

"It is important that students at SUNY Delhi not only feel accepted - I want them to feel like they belong here," said SUNY Delhi President Michael Laliberte at a celebration for the anniversary on Friday. "MOSAIC plays a valuable role in providing a safe haven to learn about yourself and others."

In its first year, MOSAIC launched the Men of Distinction Academy program, engaging men-identified students of color in discussions on masculinity and identity development. The students were also paired with staff/faculty mentors. In its second year, the program is expanding to include a living-learning community and peer-led discussions.

MOSAIC's programming also includes a series designed to foster bonding and empowerment among women as well as an LGBTQ+ Allyship program.

Centrally located in the Farrell Student & Community Center on campus, students are free to come in whenever the door is open to socialize, study, relax, eat, and engage in dialogue.

Ufuoma Nuwere, a liberal arts and sciences major, said MOSAIC is a place where everyone can be their true self. "It is our sanctuary to express who we are in a non-judgmental way."

According to Marlow-McCowin, SUNY Delhi is one of only a few colleges in the region with a multicultural center. "While other colleges may have a multicultural affairs office, it's rare to have an active, dedicated hub like ours."

Enrolling over 3,000 students, SUNY Delhi is a member of the State University of New York. For more information about SUNY Delhi, call 607-746-4000 or visit delhi.edu.

Media Attachments