Center for Diversity & Inclusion (CDI) and DREAM Resource Center (DRC)
The purpose of the Center for Diversity & Inclusion (CDI) is to support culturally-based affinity groups, enhance programming that builds cultural competence and civil discourse, and provide direct support to students.
The DREAM Resource Center (which functions within the CDI) provides support services and resources for undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students.
| Services and Resources | Description |
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Diversity & Inclusion: LEAP A workshop series designed to educate students on diversity and inclusion. Learn about diversity. Empower yourself and others. Advance initiatives. Promote Inclusion. Service: activities and workshops; scheduled and as requested Learn more! Resources and other info. |
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DREAM Zone To provide members of our campus community with information on how we can work together to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive community for our undocumented and DACA students. Programs: Social, DREAM Zone Advocate, Roundtable Discussion Dream Zone Advocates |
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Meditation and Prayer To provide a welcome sanctuary for people of all faiths and for meditation and reflection. Designated hours are identified each semester. Additional spaces and/or hours are also coordinated as needed. Programs: Learn how to meditate, guided group meditation sessions. |
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Ally Safe Zone To provide a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals by establishing an identifiable network of allies who can provide support, information, and a safe place for the community at UTRGV. Programs: Ally Safe Zone Training, Community Meeting, Meet & Greet UTRGV Allies Resources |
| Support for DACA or undocumented students | Support for DACA undocumented students Learn more about available support resources for students who are undocumented or DACAmented. |
| Community Connections | Community Connections A series (podcast/talk show format) that explores diversity and identity. Each connection (or episode) will feature a guest that will share their life experiences, knowledge, and/or resources. Interactive elements will be incorporated throughout the series and attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions during each connection. Learn more about yourself and others. |
| The People Series | Virtual gatherings to learn about influential people and discuss the impact of their work. The format of these sessions are community learning opportunities for people to learn about people together. Sessions include individuals, people, identities, cultures, and much more! |
| Healing Circles | The healing circles format is inspired by the practices of Native Americans, First Nations, and indigenous peoples. This format is designed for participants to come together as equals and have safe and open dialogue regarding difficult issues or painful experiences. |
RSVP & Program Information
Hours of Operation
The CDI serves different purposes and offers a space for a range of activities. Learn more about the hours of operations.
Locations
Brownsville Campus, Student Union 1.20A
Edinburg Campus, University Center 306A
Professional Staff
| Jose Aaron Hinojosa, Program Coordinator | ||
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Name: Jose Aaron Hinojosa (he/him/él) I believe in empowering students to be their authentic selves, reflecting on lived experiences, and learning from other individuals around you. The work we do at the center is important and I welcome opportunities to grow and collaborate. |
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Student Staff
| Desiree Garcia, Student Assistant | ||
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Name: Desiree Garcia (she/her/hers) Home Campus: Brownsville Current Program of Study: Bachelor of Science, Psychology Hometown: Brownsville, TX I have always wanted to be an individual who helps others, and being a part of this center helps me accomplish that. This center helps provide resources and information to everyone in the community to help grow and learn for the betterment of each other |
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| Aleksi Gonzalez, Student Assistant | ||
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Name: Aleksi Gonzalez (she/her/élla) Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Communication Studies, Minor in Psychology Hometown: Brownsville, TX I believe we are all a “work in progress” at every stage of life. We all have the power to embrace being lifelong students who are interested in learning from others and taking action alongside one another. |
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| Krystle Saavedra, Student Assistant | ||
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Name: Krystle Saavedra, (they/them/theirs) Second Degree Student Current Program of Study: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Science, Biology Hometown: Brownsville, TX I’ve always wanted to do something that helps make a difference in my community, so I’m delighted to be working with the center to accomplish that! As a queer Latine person myself, I know how important it is to see yourself represented and validated in society so I am hoping to make that a reality here at UTRGV. |
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CDI & DRC welcomes questions, ideas, and involvement requests.