Campus Diversity Officer Update: Celebrating Growth, Heritage, and Community

This award reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to creating opportunities for cultural learning, belonging, and connection. By working closely with community organizations, students, faculty, staff, and local leaders, we continue to identify opportunities that meet the evolving cultural interests and needs of our growing and increasingly diverse campus community.

As Hispanic student enrollment continues to grow at MSUM, we remain committed to developing programs, experiences, and leadership opportunities that celebrate culture, foster belonging, and support student success.

One recent highlight was the tremendous success of the Moorhead Juneteenth Celebration, which brought together community members, partners, performers, vendors, and organizations to honor African American history, culture, and achievement. The event showcased the power of collaboration and demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where community members can learn, celebrate, and connect.

Looking ahead, we are excited about upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month programming. In partnership with the Wellness Center, students will have opportunities to participate in Latino dance lessons, providing a fun and engaging way to experience cultural traditions while building community. The celebration will culminate with a live band performance in September, bringing students, employees, and community members together to celebrate Latino culture, heritage, and traditions.

We are also partnering with Student Life and the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Global Education (ODIGE) to support the relaunch of a Latino Leadership student organization. This effort will create new opportunities for student leadership development, cultural engagement, mentorship, and community building.

Throughout the coming year, the grant will also support additional cultural heritage programming, including:

• Indigenous Peoples Day programming
• Eid celebrations
• Cultural heritage events
• Monthly Global Pop-Up Markets featuring cultural arts, entrepreneurship, storytelling, and community engagement

We extend our sincere thanks to the Immigrant Development Center for their partnership, leadership, and commitment to strengthening cultural connections throughout our region. Together, we are creating meaningful opportunities that enrich the student experience, strengthen community relationships, and advance our commitment to inclusive excellence.

Go Dragons,

Jered Pigeon-CDO