Wheelock College Expands Multicultural Resources

Wheelock College has a longstanding institutional commitment to diversity and inclusion work, seeking to ensure that every person who walks through its doors is treated with respect and embracing the inherent positive value in living and working in diverse environments. This past summer, the College expanded its diversity efforts by allocating space, resources, and services within two new community spaces and appointing Jamie Boussicot as Director of Multicultural Affairs.

“Wheelock College strives to create and sustain a campus climate of openness and respect that: embraces diversity; regularly assesses the environment and policies; and implements procedures to address challenges,” said Marta T. Rosa, Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Executive Director, Government & External Affairs and Community Impact. “We are pleased that these two new spaces and Jamie’s critical work will promote and further Wheelock’s mission of improving the lives of all children and families.”

Due in large part to students’ strong advocacy for additional space to explore and celebrate diversity, a new Multicultural Center, located in the garden level of the classroom building, opened during the summer 2014. The Center seeks to support and improve the experiences for Wheelock’s fast growing, racially and ethnically diverse student population, including international students. In addition, the Center is committed to educating and providing awareness, training, and workshops to all members of the Wheelock community. Current discussion and topics are focused on race, gender, diversity, inclusion, cultural competency, and leadership. The Center strives to meet the community’s expectations in creating a more inclusive environment. Moving forward, the community will benefit from facilitated conversations and programs that explore complex topics, cultural celebrations, and educational programs. Lastly, the Center will serve as a valuable resource and meeting space for students, faculty, and staff. This new area will also accommodate dedicated office space for five thriving student organizations: WheeSpeakCulture, Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), Black Student Union (BSU), La Herencia Latina (LHL), and Asian and Asian American Cultural Club (AAACC).

With strong support from students, the College also opened a Spirituality and Meditation Space on campus. Located in the lower level of the Campus Center, the space is facilitated by Spiritual Life Coordinator Dr. Adrienne Kisner. The Spirituality and Meditation Space is intended to serve as a serenity zone, a location to pray, a space for bible study, guided meditation sessions, and a reflection space as needed for Wheelock community members.

As Director of Multicultural Affairs, Jamie Boussicot’s responsibilities include providing support, education, and programs that contribute to a campus climate that enhances diversity and inclusion. Jamie’s work will be fully dedicated to diversity work in support of Wheelock students, faculty, and staff.