Program Descriptions

Heritage Month Celebrations

African Americans, Asian Americans, Latina/Latino, and Native American/Indigenous Peoples each are defined as underrepresented populations nationally.   Each of these underrepresented populations has a specific month reserved to honor and celebrate the culture’s contributions and accomplishments in America.  Understanding each of the identified groups contributes largely to the growth and development of this country as well as to the collegiate experience at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside it is imperative that we recognize their contributions.  In collaboration with the Chancellor’s Office, Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, and student organizations the kick offs are a huge success.

OMSA Speak Outs  

The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs created OMSA Speak Outs for the purpose of vocalizing the societal and political issues that plague our communities.  Often times there are many issues going on in a community that never receive media or community attention.   Therefore some pressing topics in the underrepresented populations are rarely addressed.  Speak Outs allow the campus community to come together and dialogue about pressing issues in efforts to motivate the community to respond positively to the raised concerns.   

Seasons of Cultural Celebrations

Often times when the winter season approaches many of our thoughts are about Christmas.  While that is a significant part of the United States culture there is a multitude of celebrations occurring to celebrate many different cultures. Therefore this program provides the campus community the opportunity to come together and recognize some of the cultures that are present at the University of Wisconsin Parkside.  This event shares with the campus the number of different ways that the individuals in this campus community celebrate during the winter season.  Celebrations include but are not limited to:  Festival of Lights, Chinese New Year, Kwanzaa, Posada, Ramadan and many more!

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

OMSA Believes Dr. King’s Legacy is such an instrumental aspect of American history that his work should be recognized by having an annual celebration and awards ceremony.  Students in the Racine/Kenosha area schools demonstrate their practicing of his legacy by submitting art work and essays demonstrating their beliefs about Dr. King’s Life and efforts to improve society.  In addition, UW-Parkside Students submit an essay sharing their perspective on his legacy as well.  While members from the Racine/Kenosha area are encouraged to nominate members of their communities that are living the legacy of Dr. King.  In efforts to show gratitude and pay homage to community leaders for the work that is being done there is a community service award winner as well.  Ultimately, this tribute and celebration shares Dr. King’s accomplishments along with the participant’s work and service.

Multicultural Professional Day 
This one day mini conference was developed to assist juniors and seniors nearing graduation with additional skills prior to entering the professional arena.  Students get the opportunity to learn the importance of having a good resume, dressing for success, the importance of the Graduate Entrance Exam, and a typical day in the careers of professionals of color.  This conference could lead to opportunities to develop a mentor/mentee relationship with a professional.   

Taking Care of Business Banquet

TCB is a banquet which honors high academic achievers, student leaders and graduating seniors of color.  This is an opportunity for the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs to celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of students of color.  In addition, this banquet allows the opportunity for OMSA to thank the students for their many contributions through their service in their respective leadership positions.