Monthly Newsletter

Good Morning, Students & Colleagues:

There's nothing quite like the anticipation and excitement of a new school year. It is a time of new beginnings, growth, connection, togetherness, and the collective pursuit of excellence. Here in the Division of Diversity & Inclusion, we can't wait to see all that 2024-25 has in store for UWL and the La Crosse community, and we're excited to share all the amazing things happening across our division.

Watch this space for monthly updates with news and upcoming events from D&I departments and campus and community partners. And there's always more to be found on the UWL Calendar (just use the "Diversity" filter).

If you have diversity-themed campus or community news and events coming up, please connect with us at diversity@uwlax.edu so we can add your items to future mailings.

In Community,

The Division of Diversity & Inclusion

Rainbow Unity logoWelcome back! Join Rainbow Unity for a s'mores social on the Union Lawn! Feel free to bring a blanket or chair!

When: Tuesday, September 3, 7 – 8 p.m. 
Where: Student Union Lawn

Welcoming all LGBTQIAAP2S+ Students, Faculty, Staff, friends & allies!!!
Join the Pride Center to celebrate the beginning of the fall semester. Meet students, faculty, and staff while enjoying yummy food, learn about the local Planned Parenthood, The Center 7 Rivers LGBTQ+ Connection, and the Human Rights Campaign.

When: Tuesday, September 10, 5 – 6:30 p.m. 
Where: Student Union Lawn

The Fall Involvement Fair is a great opportunity for UWL students to learn about the 100+ student organizations available on campus. It's also a great opportunity for student orgs to advertise themselves, recruit new student members, and share information about upcoming events.

When: Wednesday, September 11, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Where: Student Union Lawn

Olympic RingsVisit our Diversity & Inclusion offices for an Olympic/Paralympic-themed tour of the amazing DEI services, programming, and staff at UWL! Snacks, refreshments, and fun activities await at each office you visit from 12 - 4 p.m. Don't miss out!

When: Thursday, September 12, noon – 4 p.m. 
Where: D&I offices across campus

Join Transform for a tie dye event on the Union Lawn from 6 -7 p.m. to meet new people and go home with a fun craft! Shirt sizes are first come, first serve so be sure to come early!

When: Thursday, September 12, 6 – 7 p.m
Where: Student Union Lawn

Join keynote speaker Dr. Sara Kohlbeck from the Medical College of Wisconsin to increase your understanding of suicide, its prevalence, and the risk factors for specific populations, and acquire tools for prevention, assessment, and intervention. Register today!

When: Thursday, September 19, 8:45 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Where: Student Union

Vickie SanchezJoin us for a panel discussion, refreshments, and networking opportunities with the 2024 UWL Distinguished Alumni Award winners! This year's honorees include Vickie Sanchez ('07), current Director of the Office of Multicultural Student Services, and Shaundel Spivey ('12 & '15), UWL TRIO alum and former Director of the UWL Upward Bound program.

When: Friday, September 20, 2 – 3 p.m. 
Where: Strzelczyk Great Hall, Cleary Alumni & Friends Center

UWL Celebrates: Hispanic Heritage Month
When: Thursday, September 26, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Where: Bluffs Ballroom, Student Union

Stay tuned for more info!

UWL Celebrates is an annual series of events that honor and highlight the diverse cultures, achievements, and contributions within our campus community. These events provide opportunities for engagement, learning, and celebration through various activities, performances, and presentations. Stay tuned for more detailed information about this year's exciting lineup and how you can participate! 

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 - October 15.  

A very warm welcome to all the new staff who have joined our Division in recent months and weeks:

• Dr. Adrienne Loh, Director, McNair Scholars 
• Leigh Parker, Director, Title IX & Compliance 
• Andrew Avery-Johnson, Business Manager, Student Affairs/D&I 
• Linli Zou, Retention Specialist, OMSS 
• Noona Xiong, Retention Specialist, OMSS 
• Ellen Cervantes, Administrative Assistant, OMSS/McNair  
• Abby Daleki, Executive Assistant, D&I (begins Sep. 3)
• Dr. Nevin Heard, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Diversity & Inclusion (begins Sep. 18)

Additionally, finalist candidates for the Director of Affirmative Action & Equity will be on campus for interviews in the coming weeks. Watch your inbox for information regarding open forums, and please participate in the process of filling this vital position.

Keep tabs on D&I engagement opportunities here: 2024-25 D&I Event Calendar

If you are planning or know of upcoming diversity-related events, please let us know at diversity@uwlax.edu.

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