Organization promotes multiculturalism and inclusion on campus.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) focuses on cultivating unity among student culture on the USF St. Petersburg campus.
The organization’s mission is to affirm and celebrate the heritage of underrepresented students and develop appreciation through the exposure of different cultural backgrounds.
“OMA is an office that provides diversity of cultural programs for the greater USFSP community,” said Erica Campbell, coordinator of the Multicultural Affairs Council (MAC).
OMA plans events and activities throughout the year such as workshops and trainings.
Workshop topics range from microaggression to social identities, and are facilitated during student and professional staff training week. Campbell’s goal is to have these programs open to the entire student body next year.
“Safe Zone Ally Training” is one of the programs the organization hosts in collaboration with the Wellness Center. Since Fall 2013, Safe Zone has educated the public and taught leaders how to be supportive of the LGBTQ community.
“It’s a great opportunity for student leaders and it raises a strong awareness of the community,” Campbell said
OMA also oversees the “SPECTRUM Mentor Program,” partners transfer and first-year students with upperclassmen to help navigate the campus and adjust to college life.
“We go by the name ‘SPECTRUM’ because of the array of people and minorities that participate in the program,” said Cadin Small, an OMA student assistant.
Small said the program helps establish connections early, so students can decide if they want to be involved.
OMA is also home to several organizations on campus such as the Black Student Association, Women’s Empowerment Club, PRIDE and the Multicultural Activities Council.
MAC is responsible for events like the Diwali Festival of Lights and Diversity Week.
Another popular event sponsored by MAC is “Real Talk,” an hour-long discussion on hot button issues like women’s rights, education and violence against the LGBTQ community. Discussions usually take place once a month from noon – 1 p.m. Free lunch is provided to students and faculty.
Although the organization strives to serve marginalized groups on campus, OMA is a place for everyone.
