A coalition of the five largest minority advocacy groups at the University proposed plans to University officials for a Diversity Resource Center last Friday, Jan. 24. The center would be located in the current informal lounge on the third floor of Newcomb Hall.
The center would serve as a "physical space embodying the University's commitment to diversity," Coalition president Ryan McCarthy said.
McCarthy said he envisions a space with multiple uses, explaining that the center would provide office space for the Coalition's organizations, which include the Asian Student Union, the Latino Student Union, the National Organization for Women, the Black Student Alliance and the Queer Student Union.
Additionally, McCarthy said, the space could be used as a more centrally-located satellite office for the QSU and the Women's Center, as well as a student library, housing magazines, videos and other materials. The center would be largely student-run.
McCarthy said he hoped that by providing a "safe, embracing, space for minority students," and continuing to serve as an informal gathering space for the entire University community, the "space would serve a unifying function."
Bill Ashby, associate dean of students and director of Newcomb Hall, echoed McCarthy's concern for making the space multi-functional, citing the lack of casual gathering spaces in Newcomb.
"It would be a diversity resource center first, but would also have space in it that had a casual, lounge feeling," Ashby said. "Hopefully it will be a place where students and the University community want to hang out."
Ashby said while construction plans are "still very conceptual," they would likely focus on creating a more inviting space with cosmetic improvements.
"The challenge will be making the space more visually appealing and comfortable with paint, furniture and carpet," he said.
McCarthy said he was enthusiastic about the future of the project.
"We've gotten very positive feedback so far," he said. McCarthy identified funding as the project's "largest issue."
Student Council President Micah Schwartz also expressed support for the effort, saying he wants to explore the possibility of using Council funds to help fund the project.
"Student Council is very serious about the project and is investigating the possibility of using the bookstore gift," Schwartz said.
The University Bookstore donated $50,000 in surplus profits to Council in September.
McCarthy said a project proposal has been sent to Pat Lampkin, University vice president for student affairs, as well as Dean of Students Penny Rue.
The effort currently is going forward with renovation estimates. McCarthy said he hopes the center will open during Fall semester or shortly thereafter.
"This is a very bold first move in the University's drive to embrace diversity," McCarthy said.
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