Opening the Way
"Opening the Way" is an orientation to campus life for first-year African American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Hispanic/Latino and Native American students. During the program, first-year students meet faculty, staff and students; learn more about academic programs and social organizations at Ohio University and meet other members of their graduating class
Multicultural Student Leadership Summit
The purpose of this event is to bring together the presidents of multicultural student organizations to discuss the current issues and concerns that address the African American, Hispanic/Latino American, Asian American and Native American communities at Ohio University. In addition, the forum allows the presidents to
1. meet other minority student leaders; hear upcoming plans of student organizations; set a positive agenda for the minority community;
2. provide leadership training to enhance their skills.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is a historical commemoration that marks the contributions and heritage of the Hispanic/Latino American culture. Activities include: movies, lectures and performing arts events. Alpha Psi Lamda Inc., a coed Hispanic interest fraternity, sponsors social events throughout the month.
Native Peoples Heritage Week
Celebrated in November, this heritage week is designed to educate the community about the history and traditions of Native American cultures. Activities include: information tables, window displays, movies, guest speakers and musical performers. NPAW is sponsored by the Native Peoples Awareness Coalition in conjunction with the Office of Multicultural Programs.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa, an African American holiday based on the first fruit celebrations of Africa, was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga to introduce and reinforce seven basic values of African culture: Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. The holiday is officially celebrated December 26 to January 1. Due to the OU calendar, it is celebrated early while students are still on campus. Events throughout the week include lectures, discussions, dramatic presentations, a gospel extravaganza, and a soul food dinner. Kwanzaa is a collaborative cultural presentation of the Office of Multicultural Programs and the Black Student Cultural Programming Board.
MLK Week
MLK Week is celebrated to commemorate the contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His beliefs, principles and philosophies of equality, education, community and service are the focal point of scheduled activities. Each year, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hosts a silent march and noon vigil at the College Gate on the national holiday. Volunteer service opportunities are coordinated by the Center for Community Service.
Black History Month
This historical event is designed to educate the community about the history and traditions of African American culture. Activities and events are center around cultural, social, educational, and spiritual programs. Activities during the month include movies, lectures, forums, displays, and performing artists.
Women's History Month
This historical event is designed to educate the community about the history and traditions of women. This month is nationally recognized. Some activities include movies, lectures, art series and performing art events.
Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month strives toward giving the campus community an opportunity to understand and appreciate a variety of Asian cultures and customs. Activities during the month include: movies, brown bag discussions, displays, lectures and performing artists. This event is celebrated in May.
Kushinda / Ritos de Pasaje
Kushinda / Ritos de Pasaje is a ceremony celebrating the accomplishments of all graduating African American and Latino students. It is a complement to the traditional graduation ceremony. The program includes student and alumni speakers, poetic and musical selections performed by graduating students, and a presentation of the kente cloth or serape.
