STUDENT DEVELOPMENT

To serve as a resource for all students of color on campus, to include orientation to the institutional culture. Effective programs for students of color provide services and programs that address changes in the institution and appropriate developmental changes in the students.  These programs and services both inform and educate. Most organizations and institutions reflect the values and norms of the majority, or dominating, culture.  Many students of color may need a friendly or welcoming environment that assists them in translating the institutional culture and gaining effective skills in positively negotiating that culture.  In order for those in racial/ethnic/cultural minority cultures to positively interact within majority institutions, it often requires them to become “bi-cultural.”  This concept is very similar to DuBois’ concept of the “Two-ness of the Negro.”  Having to always understand and be conscious of which cultural perspective is operating and/or influencing the interaction can be confusing, and cause much psychological and emotional stress and fatigue.

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