For the first time, Stevenson College hosted a variety of identity-based welcome week events to create welcoming, safe spaces for students from traditionally under-represented backgrounds. The events encouraged students and allies to meet each other, learn about resources available on campus, and share their worries and aspirations.
Feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive and College staff plan to continue to host similar events in the future, creating a tradition of welcoming under-represented students. Though primarily planned and implemented by residence life staff, collaborators and partners included the Stevenson Programs Office, UCSC Ethnic Resource Centers, UCSC Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Stevenson Student Council.
This year’s events included:
- LGBTQIA Students and Allies Welcome
- Students of Color and Allies Welcome
- Dreamers and Allies Welcome
- Words of Wisdom: Strategies for Success from Continuing Students
- Uncharted Waters: Navigating College for First Generation and Low Income Students
- Welcome for People with Disabilities and Allies
- International Students and Allies Welcome
Feedback from anonymous attendee surveys point to the importance of creating space for open dialogue and support:
"I think the facilitators did [a] really great [job] … promot[ing] a safe place and I hope they continue to inspire the attendees that they aid. I know this is the first year they did this but I believe Stevenson should continue to have these welcomes"
"The open dialogue for students to share experiences and fears were absolutely necessary and inspiring."
"I am feeling very supported and I look forward to meeting and connecting with more people that share my experiences."
"This was wonderful and empowering. I'm very excited to start my college career!"
