NEW DIVERSITY INSTITUTE OFFERS STUDENTS CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

Old Dominion University's Diversity Institute (DI) will debut next semester when it offers a free program to prepare students to operate in a culturally diverse global society. The program consists of weekly, two-hour, innovative cultural learning labs and activities designed to take students beyond their cultural comfort zones.

The labs will be offered Wednesday evenings, starting Jan. 23, 2008. Upon completion of the first phase of the program, students participate in a real-world excursion that allows them to use their newly acquired skills.

"Participation in the Diversity Institute is an excellent opportunity to enhance students' co-curricular transcripts and future resumes," said Lesa Clark, director of multicultural student services. "With the help of the DI, students can achieve the fundamental skills and understanding they need to succeed as individuals and professionals in an increasingly culturally diverse society and workplace."

Students interested in the program can find more information and an application at http://www.odu.edu/vhosts/studentservices/mss/diveinwebsite/apply.shtml. The application deadline is Nov. 9.

In addition to the student program, the Diversity Institute will offer presentations to ODU departments, colleges and student organizations that explain its history, mission, program design and goals. For more information, contact Clark at 683-4406, or MarQuita Tucker, multicultural student services graduate intern, at mdtucker@odu.edu.