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 |
|---|---|
 |
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. |
 |
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 |
 |
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. |
 |
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 Ally 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 is 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 a 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 operation.
Locations
Brownsville Campus, Student Union 1.20A
Edinburg Campus, University Center 306A
Professional Staff
| Vacant, Program Coordinator | ||
 |
|
|
Student Staff
| Iris Atilano, Student Assistant | ||
|
Name: Iris Atilano (she/her/ella) Home Campus: Edinburg Current Program of Study: Bachelor of Science, Psychology Hometown: Edinburg, TX I love that this center exists at UTRGV. It provides a safe space for people of all backgrounds. I appreciate the tough conversations we may have that are necessary for improving ourselves. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources we provide they are here for everyone. I know a lot of us in our community are first generation latinx students and the transition to higher education may be difficult. We are here to help. Please feel free to stop by at the center to use our space to do homework, grab pins & bookmarks, or to learn more about our resources. |
|
| Araceli Gallegos Monjaras, Student Assistant | ||
|
Name: Araceli Gallegos Monjaras (she/her/ella) Home Campus: Edinburg Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with UTeach Certification (7-12) Hometown: Houston, TX I have always believed that everyone deserves the very best and to feel accepted. In my perfect world, everyone will be accepted and will love themselves. The center has demonstrated how there are always things to learn no matter the time and place in your life. The center has been a safe place for me and others in times of need. When you step into the center you know you belong. The center for me has been a home far away from home. |
|
| America Martinez, Student Assistant | ||
|
Name: America Martinez (she/her/ella) Home Campus: Brownsville Current Program of Study: Bachelor of Integrated Health Sciences Hometown: Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico I have always been someone who loves to help people and empowers others. I hope to learn and educate myself and the community when it comes to accepting our true selves. As a Mexican woman, I have always enjoyed and embraced diversity. It has allowed me to become who I am today. I would like to finish UTRGV leaving a mark that allows others to express themselves without fear of being judged. I feel very enthusiastic about becoming a more reliable person. I am certain that the Center for Diversity & Inclusion and Dream Resource Center will allow me to gain confidence in myself and earn a sense of belonging. |
|
| Yazbel "Yerb" Rodriguez, Student Assistant | ||
|
Name: Yazbel "Yerb" Rodriguez (they/them/elle) Home Campus: Edinburg Current Program of Study: Master of Education, Mental Health Counseling Hometown: Edinburg, TX I am honored to be part of the CDI & DRC at UTRGV. Growing up as part of the LGBTQ+ community in the valley was very isolating. The lack of support and community affected my mental health which later influenced me to go into mental health counseling. Now, as an out and proud queer person, I am investing my time and energy into making the valley more accepting, advocacy, and letting others know that there are resources for them here in the RGV. Together we can change the world. |
|
CDI & DRC welcomes questions, ideas, and involvement requests.