People and Community

MSA sponsors events to amplify multiethnic voices

An open house; a retreat; cultural pop-ups honoring Hispanic, Filipino Americans, and Native Americans; and a series of events to celebrate Diversity Week are just some of what is in store through the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs this semester.
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs staff and student coordinators welcomed dozens of incoming multicultural students at their annual Fall event, Horizons, a pre-orientation program designed to assist new students in their transition to the University of Miami.
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs staff and student coordinators welcomed dozens of incoming multicultural students at Horizons, a pre-orientation program designed to assist new students in their transition to the University of Miami.

The fall semester is underway and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) is excitedly continuing with its mission to provide service and resources that support the academic mission of the University of Miami.

Kennedy Robinson, associate director, and Stephanie Nuñez, assistant director, both said that they look forward to bonding with the diverse students on campus with a host of offerings for the entire community to attend.   

“We are ecstatic to usher in a new semester and welcome our new and returning students to the University,” said Robinson, who examines growth of the department’s participants over the years. “I am proud to offer our diverse community with opportunities to get involved to further enhance their experience on and beyond campus.” 

Earlier this month, MSA staff members, student employees, and program leaders welcomed new students to the Coral Gables Campus at the annual Horizons Pre-Orientation Program, an event designed to assist incoming students in their transition to the University. Students who participated in the event had the opportunity to meet and interact with faculty members and administrators and network with their peers. 

“I love interacting with other students and encouraging them to get involved,” said Alexis Owens, chair of Horizons and a junior studying psychology and sociology. “Horizons is so important because it introduces the multicultural community to incoming students and inspires them to make their mark on campus, as it did for me.” 

Nuñez noted that she is looking forward to leading workshops, hosting events, and providing more opportunities for students to engage with their peers. 

“We are truly a campus community with such rich culture, and I look forward to showcasing that every moment we can,” she said. 

In addition to Horizons, MSA has a host of events intended to amplify and share the stories, culture, and voices of the University’s multiethnic community. Everyone is welcome to attend and engage in purposeful dialogue.lore a list of upcoming events, including three different culture pop-ups that celebrate Hispanic, Filipino American, and Native American months. 

  • Friday, Sept. 8—MSA Open House in Room 2300F at the Whitten University Center (3 p.m.). 
  • Wednesday, Sept. 13—MSA Crew Retreat at the Shalala Student Center Ballrooms (5:30 p.m.). 
  • Monday, Sept. 18—Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Ceremony. 
  • Wednesday, Sept. 20—Enough Mentorship program Kick-Off. 
  • Wednesday, Sept. 27—MSA Real Talk in Room 2300F at the Whitten University Center (6 p.m.). 
  • Wednesday, Oct. 11—Culture Pop-Up | Filipino American Heritage Month on the Lakeside Patio (noon). 
  • Wednesday, Oct. 18—MSA Real Talk in Room 2300F at the Whitten University Center (6 p.m.).
  • Thursday, Oct. 19—Enough mentorship (11:30 a.m.). 
  • Wednesday, Nov. 1—Culture Pop-Up | Native American Heritage Month on the Lakeside Patio. 
  • Thursday, Nov. 9—Enough mentorship (11:30 a.m.). 
  • Monday, Nov. 13—Diversity Week Kick-Off on the Lakeside Patio (noon). 
  • Tuesday, Nov. 14—Brave Spaces on Zoom (6 p.m.). 
  • Thursday, Nov. 30—Test-taking and Final Exam Prep (6 p.m.).
  • Monday, Dec. 4—Finals Study Snack Bar Kick-Off in Room 2300F at the Whitten University Center.

Locations and times for some MSA events have not been finalized. Visit the MSA website for updated information.


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