Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Multicultural Education Newsletter
February 2023 | C-Term | Spring 2023
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Newsletter Highlights At-A-Glance
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New! Statement of Support
New! Current Events
New! Campus Programs and Activities
New! On Campus Job Opportunities
New! Social Justice Education
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Student Identity Center Updates
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Television and computer displays have been installed in the Center for Black Excellence and the Lavender Lounge as well as the outer meeting space. These devices should be in working order, but please do contact us if there are any technical issues.
Also, new accessibility buttons have been installed to the main space as well as the respective identity centers courtesy of the Office of Accessibility Services. Please let us know if these are functioning properly as well.
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Collegiate Religious Center Updates
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Please pardon our appearance. The Collegiate Religious Center (CRC) at 19 Schussler Road will be undergoing interior and exterior renovations on the main level Lounge which may impact student programs. Please note the space remains bookable and available for student and community as needed.
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WPI Celebrates Black History Month 2023
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Worcester Black History Month Community Calendar
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International Admissions Email-a-thon
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Join the WPI Teacher Prep Program
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Introduction to African American Studies
Offered in D-Term
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The Latest from the Office of Student Aid & Financial Literacy
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In mid-October, all 2022–23 FAFSA filers at WPI (except anticipated graduating seniors) will receive an email asking them to file for 2023–24. The FAFSA is due by March 31, 2023 and will require 2021 tax information. You’re encouraged to use the Data Retrieval Tool to fill out your FAFSA to assist with the streamlining process. WPI’s FAFSA code is 002233 . Please note that, unlike when they applied for admission, upper class students do not need to fill out the CSS Profile.
Not all students will be selected for verification by the Department of Education (upon completion of the FAFSA, your student’s Student Aid Report will indicate if they have been selected), but those who are will be required to complete verification documents prior to receiving their award in early summer 2023 for fall 2023. More information will be shared with those selected in early 2023 via email.
Be sure your student is checking the student aid portal for any aid requirements that are still due. Students must review any emails sent from our office regarding finalizing loan requirements. Federal Direct Loan requirements may be completed via studentaid.gov. Institutional Loan requirements (Manning Loans and other WPI Institute Loans) were sent via ECSI, a third-party vendor contracted with WPI, in mid-August from the Business Office.
As a reminder, upper class students will be required to sign a new disclosure form for the Manning Loans and other WPI Institute Loans even though they may have already signed their promissory note in a prior year. Requirements must be complete for loans to be disbursed to the student’s bill; if loan requirements remain incomplete, the student’s Federal Direct and WPI Institutional Loans may be canceled. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the office at finaid@wpi.edu or 508-831-5469.
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Protecting Your Spirit, Mind, and Body
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Upcoming Campus Programs and Events
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Upcoming Holidays, Holy Days, and Commemorative Days
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- International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11)
- Super Bowl Sunday (February 12)
- Darwin Day (February 12)
- International Condom Day (February 13)
- Valentine's Day (February 14)
- Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17)
- Lailat al Miraj (February 18)
- President's Day (February 20)
- Washington's Birthday (February 20)
- World Day of Social Justice (February 20)
- Mardi Gras (February 21)
- Ash Wednesday (February 22)
- Dominican Republic Independence Day (February 27)
- Rare Disease Day (February 28)
February 2023 is observed as:
- National Black History Month
- American Heart Month
- National Teen Dating Violence Awareness And Prevention
Happy Birthday to all of the February babies! |
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WPI News:
ODIME News:
Inside Higher Ed:
- ‘A Very Promising Sign’ | For the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, first-year enrollment increased from the previous year—though it’s too soon to say if the trend will continue.
- How Student Loan Forgiveness Could Win at the Supreme Court | If the parties challenging the plan can’t clear the standing threshold, then the Supreme Court justices shouldn’t consider the other arguments that the debt-relief plan is illegal. But that might not stop the conservative justices from striking down loan forgiveness.
- ‘Shouting Down an Empty Hallway’ | Demand for diversity, equity and inclusion specialists on campus is high—and so is turnover. Many in the field say the work can be isolating and support from top leaders is rare.
- Education Department Hints at Possible Delay of FAFSA | Overhauling the federal financial system and simplifying the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a significant undertaking for the Education Department. Although the agency is making progress on the project, officials said this week the application might not be ready by Oct. 1.
Diverse Issues In Higher Education:
Insight Into Diversity:
The Journal of Blacks In Higher Education:
Higher Ed Dive:
Local/State/National/International News:
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LGBTQIAP+ Resources and Support
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Read, Watch, Listen, and Learn
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- Residence Life Cinema (SWANK Motion Pictures, Inc.)
- Alcohol Awareness
- Asian Pacific Islander History and Culture
- Black History and Culture
- Constitution Day
- Disabilities
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Earth Day
- Hispanic History and Culture
- International
- LGBTQ+ Pride
- Social Relevance
- National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week
- National Native American Heritage Month
- Women's History Month
- Women's Studies
- World AIDS Day
- Anyone on WPI Wi-Fi can access free streaming services at cinema.wpi.edu.
Podcasts:
Books:
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Voter Education and Registration
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Election Day 2023
Tuesday, November 7th
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Student Jobs and Internships
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Career Development Center (CDC) Undergraduate Peer Advisor,
$16/hour, 5 positions available
This position will work on a team of CDC Peer Advisors. Peer Advisors advise students on career-related topics; facilitate presentations to students on Career Development Center topics, programs, and services; and support the many CDC activities and initiatives. This position is approximately 8 hours/week starting in A Term 2023, with 2 hours/week training throughout D Term 2023. (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received). Apply through Handshake below.
Career Development Center (CDC)
$16/hour, 2 positions available
This position will work on a team of 2 graduate student CDC Peer Advisors in collaboration with the undergraduate CDC Peer Advisors. Peer Advisors advise students on career-related topics; facilitate presentations to students on Career Development Center topics, programs, and services; and support the many general CDC activities and initiatives with some targeted programming and services to master's and PhD students . This position is approximately 8 hours/week starting in A Term 2023, with 2 hours/week training throughout D Term 2023. (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received). Apply through Handshake below.
Deadline to apply Sunday, February 19th
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The Academic Resources Center (ARC) is hiring undergraduate tutors for next year (2023-2024). The tutor application is live and the link can be found on the ARC Canvas Page (under “Tutor Information”) and can also be found on Tech Sync. The application will be open from Thursday February 2, 2023 until Friday March 17, 2023 at 4:00 PM EST. The ARC will be hiring peer tutors and MASH tutors for a variety of STEM subjects.
Qualifications for all ARC Tutor positions
- ARC Tutor positions are open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Undergraduate full-time students only
- Must be in good academic standing – successful overall student, with an exceptional record in math, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and/or engineering science.
- Must have received an A or B, or transfer credit to tutor a course for the ARC.
- Strong communication and active listening skills, with an emphasis on verbal communication
- Must be able to provide 5 hours of availability a week in any given term.
- Ability and interest in serving as a role model. Recognize primary role to help students become more confident, successful, and self-directed learners.
- Previous experience tutoring or providing academic support preferred.
- Experience facilitating and leading a group preferred.
- ARC Tutors are expected to follow the WPI Student Code of Conduct and be clear of a conduct record
- ARC Tutors should ensure any access to student information remains confidential which is in alignment with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Learn more about these codes at https://www.wpi.edu/about/policies.
You can find the full job descriptions (for Peer and MASH Tutor Roles) and recruitment timeline on the ARC Canvas Page (under "tutor information").
Becoming a Tutor information sessions: There will be two opportunities to attend an info session that will include a presentation with an overview of the tutor position, application process, and Q&A.
- Session 1: Monday February 13, 2023, 3pm-4pm, Salisbury Labs 305
- Session 2: Wednesday February 15, 2023, 4:30pm-5:30pm, Salisbury Labs 105
How to Apply:
- Review job descriptions, qualifications, and details regarding application materials needed to apply: How to Become a Tutor
- Application: Complete and submit the 2023-2024 ARC Tutor Application
- Upload Resume, Cover Letter/Statement, Unofficial Transcript within the application
- Faculty Recommendation Form: Send this recommendation form link to one faculty member you are asking to be your reference for the position: https://wpi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eyrnuEWxNr7wa58
- One additional Reference: Name and email of a second reference that you will provide in the application (this person does not need to complete the recommendation form)
If you have questions about tutoring positions at the ARC, please contact Lakeya Almeida, Associate Director of the Academic Resources Center at lalmeida@wpi.edu.
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The Office of Pre-Collegiate Outreach Programs is looking to hire a team of undergraduates to assist in the daily implementation of the Launch and Frontiers programs. Summer staff are responsible for building connections with participants and serving as a liaison between participants and campus staff to ensure a positive experience. Additionally, you will be responsible for building and a sense of connection and belonging for our program participants. All summer staff will act as ambassadors from the WPI community, sharing WPI’s culture and traditions, while also serving as STEM role models and by sharing their personal experiences. A successful mentor will also exhibit a positive attitude, a sense of humor, and an interest to work with high school students and staff from diverse backgrounds.
Applications are due by Sunday, March 26th. If you have any questions, please contact Gregory Lane, at glane@wpi.edu.
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Professional Development Opportunities
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How to manage money, deal with debt, and
create a financial legacy
Thursday, February 16, 2023
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EST
Topics Covered:
- Preparing your financial future for the short and long term
- Making the decisions that may help you save more money today
- Creating a financial legacy that you can pass on to future generations
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A Virtual Career Conference for Black Men in College
Friday, February 24, 2023
10:00 AM - 4:45 PM EST
The Global Leadership Summit is a virtual intercollegiate career conference focused on helping the next generation of global leaders thrive globally. GLS topics include:
Diversity and Inclusion in Global Leadership
Career-Development & Readiness on a Global Scale
International Leadership Development
Networking & Global Exchange
The purpose of the event is to help Black men in college navigate the Global Leadership pipeline and provide information about the full range of opportunities available to them pre- and post-graduation, particularly those with a global focus. We will discuss opportunities in study abroad, Peace Corps, global business, fellowships (Fulbright), and other resources.
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Summer Research Opportunities
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Computing for an Equitable Energy Transition
We are anticipating that we will also receive funding for another REU opportunity - Computing for an Equitable Energy Transition. If funded, Computing for an Equitable Energy Transition will run from June 12th through August 11th, 2023. Participants will leverage resources and expertise in the College of Engineering at the University of Massachusetts to conduct research at the intersection of energy technology and social equity, in a wide range of disciplines from computer science and engineering through economics and history. We invite students from a wide range of majors in and outside STEM to apply. Undergraduate students from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply. Up to date information and application materials will be posted at the link when available (anticipated Thursday, February 2, 2023).
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MURALS: Materials-focused Undergraduate Research Applied to the Life Sciences
The Materials-focused Undergraduate Research Applied to the Life Sciences (MURALS) REU Program is recruiting undergraduate students from underrepresented groups to participate in a 9-week long research experience from June 12th through August 11th, 2023. MURALS REU students will leverage the scientific expertise, infrastructure and programs in the College of Engineering and Institute of Applied Life Sciences (IALS) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst to conduct research at the intersection of materials and the life sciences. Application review begins Wednesday, February 15, 2023.
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RIDE: Research for Inclusivity and Driving Equity (RIDE)
Our Research for Inclusivity and Driving Equity (RIDE) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site (see the attached flier) offers students a 9 week immersive experience on the UMass campus to work on interdisciplinary project in community engaged research focused on transportation. It includes a weekly stipend and housing on campus. Students who will be enrolled full-time in a 4-year or community college program in Fall 2023 are eligible, including incoming freshman students. There is a bias for students interested in engineering, but it is by no means restricted to engineering. As students will see from the projects, it is interdisciplinary. Application review begins Wednesday, February 15, 2023.
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The Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP) is a multi-institutional program between the 6 Woods Hole scientific institutions and the academic partner, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. PEP is a 10-week program designed primarily for college juniors and seniors from underrepresented groups in marine and ocean sciences who want to spend a summer gaining practical experience in marine and environmental science. The program consists of a four-week course in global climate change and a ten-week research project – all in the sea-side village of Woods Hole.
Participating students will receive a $5,000 stipend in addition to tuition for the course, travel to/from Woods Hole, and room and board during the program.
Application Requirements
2023 Important Dates
- February 10 - Application deadline (the portal will close promptly at 11:59 PM EST)
- February 17 - Letter of recommendation deadline (the portal will close promptly at 11:59 PM EST)
- June 3 - Interns travel to Woods Hole
- June 5 - Welcome and orientation events
- August 11 - Final presentations and symposium
- August 12 - Interns depart Woods Hole
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Summer Research at the University of Michigan
Spend nine weeks on an intensive research project.The Summer Research Opportunity Program aims to expand access and opportunity to diverse students and facilitate their preparation as a pathway to doctoral studies at the University of Michigan.
Eligibility
- Minimum 3.0 on 4.0 GPA Scale
- Planning to Apply to U-M Doctoral Program
Benefits
- $4,500 Stipend (plus travel expenses)
- Housing and Meals
- Weekly Seminars
- Research Symposium
- Academic Community
Program Dates: Tuesday, May 30, 2022 to Thursday, August 3, 2023
Application Deadline: Friday, January 27, 2023
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Scholarship Opportunities
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ODIME Staff Weekly Drop-In Hours
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Campus Chaplains and Religious Advisor Weekly Drop-In Hours
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Academic Support Services
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WPI Multicultural, Intercultural, International, and Religious Community
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Campus Advocacy Resources
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- Dean of Students | Student resources for advocacy, citizenship, empowerment, inclusion, respect, and support
- Office of International Student Life (ISL) | Student resources for international support, education, community, and advocacy
- Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) | Student resources for accommodation services, advocacy, support, and assistance
- Title IX | Student resources for anti-discrimination policy and equal opportunity education
- Student Development and Counseling Center (SDCC) | Student resources for counseling, therapy, and mental health/wellness
- Graduate Student Government (GSG) | Student resources for addressing the social and academic needs of graduate students
- Student Government Association (SGA) | Student resources for addressing the social and academic needs of undergraduate students
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Additional Support and Resources
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(ODIME newsletter is distributed on Wednesdays weekly while classes are in session.)
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