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
Staff
| Jose Aaron Hinojosa, Program Coordinator | ||
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Name: Jose Aaron Hinojosa (he/him/él), Program Coordinator 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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| Kayleigh Thomas, Graduate Student Assistant | ||
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Name: Kayleigh Thomas (she/her/hers) Home Campus: Edinburg Current Program of Study: Master of Science, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Hometown: Donna, TX I’m excited to take part in the work at the center, as it will allow me to keep community members informed, along with providing me with new perspectives. I believe that it is important for us to create places where others feel comfortable in, along with promoting inclusion. |
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| Alonso Ponce, Undergraduate Student Assistant | ||
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Name: Alonso Ponce (he/him/él), Undergraduate Student Assistant I believe in being a source of help for students and I aim to promote inclusion and diversity, not only on campus, but within the entire RGV. I hope to educate others to the best of my abilities because, as Nelson Mandela once said, “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. |
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CDI & DRC welcomes questions, ideas, and involvement requests.