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Community Building

Goal: To assist students in establishing academic and social networks in order to become an integral part of the campus community.

Establishing social and academic networks amongst peers is a major tenet of student retention. Research suggests that students who become an integral part of the campus community usually persist and graduate.

CMARC assists students in establishing these connections by sponsoring a variety of activities that bring students together across all classes and disciplines. This programming helps students personalize their experience and ties them into the fabric of student culture. They also enable newcomers to acquire useful, informal networks with upper-class students.

Community Building Programs

ORIGINS

Recognizing the benefits of a good beginning, CMARC sponsors a two day, off-campus pre-orientation program for African Americans, Hispanic, and Native American first year students. It is intended to serve as a bridge for ethnic minorities as they transition from high school to college and as an opportunity for community building with others of similar backgrounds.

ORIGINS is an excellent opportunity for students to:

  • Meet other ethnic minority first year students, as well as upper-class leaders and mentors
  • Develop campus networks
  • Get to know member of the CMARC staff
  • Explore the value of diversity
  • Meet new friends and have fun
  • Move into your residence hall early

First Year Programs

Freshman Meetings

Freshman meetings supply first year students with interactive advising sessions amongst fellow peers and CMARC staff. Students discuss issues pertaining to their first year experience such as:

  • The First 30 Days
  • Time Management
  • Stress & Finals Preparation
  • Communication with Professors
  • Resident Hall Environment
  • Individual Transitions from high school to college 

Freshman Meetings encourage students to maintain interaction with their peers and CMARC Advisor.

Freshman Open House

The Freshman Open House is held at the beginning of the school year and helps first year students to become oriented with the location of the CMARC office and their advisor. The program also provides an opportunity for the students to meet and interact with their peers. 

 Welcome Back Picnic

The Welcome Back Picnic is held when students first arrive to campus after summer break. It is an opportunity for all students to reconnect with their peers after the summer session and promotes the emphasis of a strong campus community.

Cultural Awareness Activities

The CMARC staff and students participate in various cultural awareness activities throughout the university community. The office actively participates in Hispanic Heritage month, Black History month, and MLK day. By serving on planning committees and sponsoring programs, CMARC students and staff serve as ambassadors for diversity throughout campus and community.

Holiday Party

The Holiday Party/ Dinner is held before Christmas break. Students are able to spend time with each other in a CMARC sponsored event. The party consists of a dinner for all students and several holiday games and festivities.