We strive to achieve a campus climate that is supportive, respectful, and welcoming where members of the MSU community view our differences as a source of our strength. This spring semester, some members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) and Black/Indigenous/People of Color (BIPOC) communities felt a lack of safety and belonging after the Queer Straight Alliance received an anonymous email threat.

The experiences of individuals and groups were not taken lightly. Students, faculty, and staff responded by showing up in solidarity at Diversity and Inclusion Student Commons (DISC) events, engaging in activities through MSU’s Week of Belonging, and supporting students in need throughout the semester. We are reminded that we foster positive environments through our daily interactions as well as through ongoing programs and investments. Campus offices like American Indian/Alaska Native Student Success Services, Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), the Women’s Center, DISC, Veterans Center, and TRIO, and their respective training programs equip members of the MSU community with awareness and knowledge to engage effectively with those who hold a variety of identities.

Association of Women in Computing

The Association for Women in Computing (AWC) builds community for students interested in computers and coding. AWC hosts events, speakers, study nights, outreach programs, and even a networking dinner to facilitate positive involvement and academics.

Hispanic Heritage Month

MSU recognized Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of events including a panel discussion, a salsa dancing and leadership night, film screenings, related reading materials selected by the MSU library staff, and more.

MMIP Day of Awareness

MSU hosted a two-day program in recognition of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples’ Day of Awareness to encourage hope and healing for community advocates, survivors, and families and friends of missing and murdered Indigenous people.

Black History Celebration

In recognition of Black heritage and in celebration of Black History Month, the MSU School of Music Jazz Workshop Band, the Traditional Jazz combo, and the One O’Clock Jazz Ensemble performed a concert of soul, funk and fusion jazz, preceded by an introduction by community leader and former bobcat football star Josh Perkins.

 

200

MSU students, faculty, and staff members attended a February solidarity event to show support for LGBTQ and BIPOC students. The series continued throughout the spring semester.

 

89%

of students agree that their ongoing counselor at Counseling and Psychological Services is sensitive to their cultural background and/or identities, according to the most recent CPS Client Satisfaction Survey.

 

12

sessions of DISCourse and Nuggets brought students together in conversation about topics.