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New faces bring strengths, ideas to USI's Multicultural Center

October 4, 2016

The word "busy" would be a gross understatement when it comes to the staff of the University of Southern Indiana's Multicultural Center (MCC). For years, the center has sponsored numerous programs and initiatives, conducted diversity training, hosted a slew of events and made underrepresented students feel welcome. Pam Hopson, director and founder of the center, often did this with the help of only one or two other staff members.

This fall, under the direction of Hopson, the MCC is staffed with both new faces and expanded positions that are breathing new life into programs and workshops, and better connecting with students. "What I saw in each of these individuals was leadership, caring for the students, and passion for what they do," said Hopson.

Assistant Director
D'Angelo Taylor, assistant director, formerly served as admissions counselor at Western Illinois University, where he also received his bachelor's and master's degrees in political science. He assesses programing to ensure goals are met. He came to USI because he wanted a new challenge and the Multicultural Center gave him the opportunity to help underrepresented students feel connected. "I want to reach students who are struggling or having difficulty adjusting so I can push them to the right resources and put them on a path for success," he said. Taylor coordinates the Black and Brown Summit which brings in prominent speakers from the community to cover issues African Americans and Latinos face. He also showcases the talent of USI students during the annual Live at the Apollo event where musical performances, dancing, skits and poetry are melded together. "What drew me to this job was that it was an opportunity for me to contribute to something," said Taylor. "We have a variety of programming that allows students to connect with their culture and learn a lot about other cultures."

Multicultural Program Advisor
Cesar D. Berrios, multicultural program advisor, graduated from USI with bachelor's degrees in history and Spanish in 2013. His experience with promoting inclusion of Latinos in the community has been strengthened by his internship with Hospitality and Outreach for Latin Americas, working as the coordinator of Hispanic Outreach for the Office of Hispanic Ministry, and overcoming his own obstacles. He is in charge of the College Mentor for Kids program, where USI students train to be mentors for children in grades 1-4. He also coordinates the Hispanic Student Union, where he introduces participants to the diverse cultures of Latinos and provides leadership opportunities. "I have a passion for higher education," he said. "I came to USI and was very happy with the experience and education I received. I'd like for students from all backgrounds, cultures and races to be able to visit the MCC, feel welcome and at home, and know there's a team here willing to help them with their needs."

Outreach Coordinator and Student Mentor
Candace Fairer, outreach coordinator and student mentor, began working at USI in 2015 as an admission counselor. Prior to that, she taught special education for grades 3-5 at Anderson Elementary in her hometown of Anderson, Indiana. While she had experience recruiting students, her new position guides them through graduation-providing them with encouragement and helping them navigate college life. "We're going to start providing workshops that will help students be successful," she said. "For example, with first generation students, they may not know how to fill out financial aid documents, and their parents may not know either. We want to make sure they know how to do things properly."

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