UNO Office of Multicultural Affairs Annual Report | 2019-20

UNIV ERSIT Y OF NEBR A SK A AT OMAHA

OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT

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C ON T E N T S

3 WELCOME FROM MCA

20 MAVERICK ROYALT Y MEN

4 MCA OVERVIEW

22 MAVERICK ROYALT Y WOMEN

6 STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS

24 MAVERICK SCHOL ARS

8 MCA HAPPENINGS AND EVENTS

25 DONNING OF THE KENTE

16 MCA AND THE COMMUNIT Y 18 SUMMER SCHOL ARS 19 SCHOL ARSHIPS 19 FAFSA NIGHT

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26 L ATINO GRADUATION 27 NATIVE AMERICAN STUDIES HONORING 28 T HANK YOU CAMPUS AND COMMUNIT Y PARTNERS

WELCOME TO MCA FROM THE MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS TEAM On behalf of the Office of Multicultural Affairs team, welcome to the Office of Multicultural Affairs! Supporting everyone.

Our students bring forth many cultures, experiences and perspectives. The Office of Multicultural Affairs (MCA) provides you with a space to broaden your horizons and learn about the backgrounds and cultures of others.

We are located on the first floor of the Milo Bail Student Center, room 112. We encourage you to visit and use our study spaces, computer lab, and limited free printing! We assist students in achieving academic excellence, developing their personal and professional character, and engaging in the campus and greater community.

Whether you find our office to be your home away from home, a platform for you to discuss campus/community issues, an area to host a program/event, a study space, or simply a place to relax and have a bite to eat in between classes, we invite you to connect, express, and grow.

Recognizing that diversity and inclusion are key components to our students’ learning experience, we offer a wide range of opportunities for leadership development, academic seminars/ workshops, cultural experiences, service learning experiences, and social engagement programs.

Scholarships and mentorship programs are available to help students be successful as well.

You Are Welcome Here!

MEET THE MCA TEAM Director Taricka Burton, M.A. Start date: November 2012 tlfairgood@unomaha.edu

Associate Director and Summer Scholars Program Coordinator Elizabeth Blanco Start date: May 2011 eblanco@unomaha.edu

Multicultural Outreach Coordinator Gretchen Carroll Start date: August 2019 gcarroll@unomaha.edu

Retention Coordinator Will Smith, M.S., PLMHP Start date: April 2019 williamsmith@unomaha.edu

Graduate Assistant Maverick Royalty Tori Hudson Start date: August 2019 thudson@unomaha.edu

Graduate Assistant Summer Sanabria Start date: August 2019 ssanabria@unomaha.edu

Office Associate Dominique Riggs Start date: March 2020 driggs@unomaha.edu

A NNUA L R EP OR T | 2019 -2020

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THE OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS OVERVIEW Multicultural Affairs is essential to academic and social integration and, thus, retention and graduation rates of students as well as the multicultural education of the campus.

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (MCA) at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is responsible for developing and maintaining programs and services to ensure the successful recruitment, retention, and graduation of underrepresented students. Through scholarship aid, academic, and personal support students are empowered to attain their educational and professional goals.

Collaborative efforts within the university and with the greater Omaha metropolitan community aid to ensure an inclusive environment where shared understanding is facilitated, knowledge is expanded, and appreciation for varied perspectives is cultivated. Academic support is available to ensure the academic success of under-represented students.

More specifically, MCA’s objective is to equip students with the academic skills necessary to successfully graduate from the university. Students learn to become the CEO of their college career through workshops on self-advocacy training, note-taking and test preparation strategies, time management, creating learning communities through groups, and networking with peers, faculty, and career professionals.

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MAVERICK SCHOLARS PROGRAM Expanded the underrepresented student participant population

OFFICE REDESIGN TO PROMOTE MORE DIVERSE STUDENT PARTICIPATION

7,639

INCREASED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Juneteenth Parade Omaha Days Parade

Created student space for the students groups: Indigenous Student Center Latino Student Groups Asian Pacific Islander Student Center Black Excellence Student Center

SIGNATURE CAMPUS EVENT Black History Month Speaker:

Daily attendance increase for fall 2019

Welcome Receptions Venue at Highlander Livestock Exchange

‘Chop it Up’ Haircutting & Hair Braiding Event for Maverick Royalty Another Level Barbershop MoreHair by Kessa

Community Service: Maverick Royalty, S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) event Girls Inc.

Dr. Ibram X Kendi

SUMMER SCHOLARS BRIDGE PROGRAM

$228,000

$25,000

Three year grant awarded to our comprehensive support retention program Maverick Royalty

budget line secured for the Wambli Sapa Memorial Pow Wow

89

High school students

17

College Peer Mentors

WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS

A NNUA L R EP OR T | 2019 -2020

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STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS Kryssy Harper, a sophomore at UNO, found a community in the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

“Multicultural Affairs is my home,” says Kryssy “I came in for the free printing, but I was immediately welcomed like family.”

“Everyone is so open and so kind and I have met so many amazing people in the office. It is easy to connect with everyone here and they are always willing to help you out. Anyone can come here and just chill out.”

From her involvement across campus to her classes, Kryssy is taking her second year at

Additionally, she is a Peer Mentor for Success Academy, where she mentors 20 students acting as a bridge between the instructor and the students. She wants her mentees to learn from her mistakes and find their place on campus.

Kryssy is very excited about her opportunities this year, “I can’t wait to see what comes next.”

Joshua Garcia, a junior at UNO, is having a busy semester. During his time here he has become very involved on campus with the American Multicultural Students agency and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, as well as trying to balance work and school.

As a person of color, to see faculty that are diverse and that look like me is so meaningful. They know your struggle as a college student and can provide the resources for students to thrive,” he says.

This semester he has also started as a student worker in the MCA office. As the first person they see when they walk in the door he wants to make sure everyone feels welcome and to help them find what they need to be successful.

Josh, like so many others, greatly appreciates the support and services the office has provided.

Josh does not simply come to the office during his work hours, but is also found here during his free time. For Josh, the MCA office is a safe space.

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UNO by storm. She is currently the co-chair of Public Relations for Black Excellence.

Through her leadership, she would love to get more students involved in the organization and see Black Excellence grow and thrive.

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“Without MCA I would have dropped out of school. By coming to this office I have been able to meet new friends, supportive faculty and staff, get involved in student organizations, and the office has provided me the tools to be successful.”

Alex Flanders is an exceptional young woman who is already making a great impact on our campus and in our community. She is an enrolled member of the Winnebago/Ho-Chunk Tribe of Nebraska and a sophomore majoring in English with a concentration in Creative Nonfiction.

She is also very involved on campus. She is a Susan T. Buffett Scholar, President of Inter-Tribal Student Council, and she serves as an office associate for MCA. Coming from the Winnebago Indian Reservation, Alex was nervous she would be left out because of where she came from.

I thought that the campus was going to be dominated by an all-white

“Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID19 pandemic, I feel grateful to be part of the UNO community and to have the ability to continue taking classes from home”, says Jordan Matula, junior at UNO. During this difficult and unprecedented time, she has received continued support from her professors and reassurance from advisors and MCA. “MCA faculty gives me confidence heading into my senior year, even though I’m unsure of what exactly that may look like.”

Jordan is a citizen of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. As a freshman, she was introduced to the President of UNO’s Intertribal Student Council (ITSC), Gretchen Carroll. Gretchen and ITSC welcomed her into the group and since then she has proudly served as secretary, vice president, and president.

“Native Americans are one of the smallest populations on the UNO campus, which can feel very isolating at times,” Jordan says.

population. I was proven wrong and all that fear slipped away when I toured UNO for the first time, seeing all the diversity, and entering the Office of Multicultural Affairs,” Alex says.

For Alex, the MCA office has been an incredibly special space for her to be with people like herself. “Though we all have different backgrounds, we all have bonded over situations and events from Inter-Tribal Student Council. It is a support system that takes care of us and has become our own unofficial tribe in the process.”

Alex really appreciates the friendly environment. “Everyone is so nice and understanding. The office is certainly a home away from home.”

“The support and life-long friendships I’ve gained through ITSC and the MCA office have been valuable to my academic and professional success.”

MCA has also helped her learn and grow.

“I’ve learned important leadership and professional skills through my involvement in the MCA office, such as the importance of open communication and setting goals.”

Jordan asserts that setting goals in the midst of a pandemic can be an important tool to maintain some form of motivation and familiarity. It has also taught her that not meeting those goals as intended is not the worst thing in the world.

Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she had the rest of her academic career planned out, including several amazing internships this summer, which have since been canceled. “My studies and internship have restricted me to my apartment, but I still remain hopeful that the hard work I’m putting in now will pay off in the future”.

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MCA 2019-20 HAPPENINGS AND EVENTS It was an exciting semester for MCA. We were able to host a variety of events from New Student Welcome’s, Black History Month, Latino History Month, Native American History Month, Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Month, as well as many more. Thanks to all of our collaborators and those who helped organize these events.

AFRICAN AMERICAN WELCOME BACK BREAKFAST AUGUS T 17, 2019

MCA welcomed Black and African American students back to school. We highlighted available resources on campus and opportunities to get more involved.

MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS HAPPENINGS

Participants: Library Services, Student Involvement, Academic and Career Development Center (ACDC), Thompson Learning Community (TLC), Gender and Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC), Housing and Residential Life, Department of Black Studies, Service Learning, Project Achieve, Military and Veterans Services, Urban League, Black Excellence, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).

Latino New Student Welcome African American New Student Welcome Native American New Student Welcome Multicultural Open House Dia De Los Muertos Mardi Gras Hair Braiding

LATINO WELCOME BACK BRUNCH

Day of the Dead FAFSA Nights Rock Your Mocs

AUGUS T 18, 2019

Latino Heritage Month

MCA welcomed Latino students back to school.

We highlighted available resources on campus and opportunities to get more involved.

Native American Heritage Month Black History Month

Participants: Library Services, Student Involvement, ACDC, TLC, GSRC, Housing and Residential Life, Service Learning, Project Achieve, Military and Veterans Services, Urban League, Black Excellence, Office of Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS), Association of Latin American Students (ALAS), Cathy Pettid, Dean of Students

Discussion with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi about his book How to Be an Antiracist and student book signing Student Organizations Door Decorating Contest Wellness Wednesdays

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NATIVE AMERICAN STUDENT WELCOME

HOW TO WIN AT A CAREER FAIR

MCA welcomed Native American students back to school. We highlighted available resources on campus and opportunities to get more involved.

In collaboration with Union Pacific and Project Achieve, our office offered a free career fair workshop. An in-depth presentation was given about how to stand out from the crowd at a career fair. Attendees learned best practices for interviewing and networking.

AUGUS T 23, 2019

Participants: Student Involvement, ACDC, Financial Support and Scholarships, Intertribal Student Council (ITSC), SOMS, Nebraska Urban Indian Health Services, Ponca Clinic, Native American Studies, Tribal Management and Emergency Services.

Read more about this event on page 16.

SEP T EMBER 9, 2019

STAKES IS HIGH: RACE, FAITH, AND HOPE IN AMERICA SEP T EMBER 9, 2019

Pastor, professor, award winning author, activist, and social commentator Rev. Waters’ shared words of hope and empowerment that have inspired national and international audiences. Approximately 200 people were in attendance participating in an engaging discussion afterwards.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS DOOR DECORATING CONTEST O C TO BER 2019

MCA hosted a Door Decorating Contest for our in-house student organizations as a “welcome” to their new spaces, along with being able to highlight different aspects of their culture. Each group had two weeks to create their door display and then voting was conducted by students in the office.

Participants: Black Excellence, Indigenous Student Center, Latino Student Organization, and Asian Pacific-Islander Student Organization.

In the end, Latino Student Organization won the votes, but each group did an excellent job showcasing their culture.

MCA OPEN HOUSE

SEP T EMBER 4, 2019 More than 150 students and campus partners joined us for our annual MCA Open House. At the beginning of each new semester we invite all students to come visit and meet with the staff. It is a chance to get to know the office and meet with other students and organizations.

Many campus partners drop in to greet the students, share a meal and discuss their future at UNO. The MCA Open House is one of the most anticipated days of the new year.

WATCH VIDEO ON YOUTUBE MCA DOOR DECORATING CONTEST

A NNUA L R EP OR T | 2019 -2020

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HISPANIC LATINO HERITAGE MONTH* Hispanic Latino Heritage Month is an official celebration of American citizens whose ancestry can be traced back to Spain, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The festival lasts from September 15 to October 15 every year. It pays tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society. MCA hosted a variety of fun and engaging events for our campus.

Co-sponsors: OLLAS, American Multicultural Student Agency, Sigma Lambda Beta National Fraternity Inc., Lambda Theta Nu Sorority Inc., Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc., Office of Spirit and Tradition, Association of Latin American Students.

PUBLISH YOUR WORK: MEET AND GREET WITH JSCORE EDITOR* SEP T EMBER 30, 2019

We hosted a meet and greet with JSCORE Founder and Editor Dr. Cristobal Salinas. Students had the opportunity to learn about and discuss the research and publication process.

FIESTA ON THE PLAZA* O C TO BER 15, 2019

We celebrated homecoming and Hispanic Heritage Month with music and free food from three different countries; Venezuela, Mexico, and El Salvador. Students were able to try delicious bites from a variety of new cultures. SalMex served pupusas, Chinchorro Boriqua served pinchos, El Arepon serves arepas, Maria Bontia Catering served tacos, and Artisan Ice Cream served typical Spanish ice cream. Raices de Mexico performed. Over 500 students, staff, and faculty attended.

“CONCHA” KNOW ABOUT IT!* SEP T EMBER 16, 2019

We kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month by serving sweet conchas and telling people more about our Hispanic Heritage Month programming

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH PUBLIC SERVICE LUNCHEON* O C TO BER 2, 2019

VOCES PERDIDAS & VOCES DE PODER: WHAT IS LATINX?* SEP T EMBER 30, 2019

Dr. Cristobal Salinas, assistant professor in the Education Leadership and Research Methodology Department at Florida Atlantic University, gave a fascinating address on the definition and use of the term Latinx.

The lecture analyzed the politics surrounding naming practices around the term and how 34 Latina/o/x students relate to, identify with, and understand the term Latinx.

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The 2nd annual Hispanic Heritage Month Public Service Luncheon highlighted public service in the Latino community. This year’s event featured Fatima Flores-Lagunas (UNO ’19) as the keynote speaker, as a Special Congressional Recognition for UNO Alumnus Rodrigo Lopez, Interim President and CEP, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: JOAQUIN BLAYA* O C TO BER 16, 2019

For the final event for Hispanic Heritage Month, we welcomed former CEO of Univision and Telemundo, the largest providers of Spanishlanguage content in American television. Maya, Saenz, a bilingual multimedia journalist from KMTV 3 in Omaha served as the moderator.

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NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH** Observed in November, Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Native American Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have fought to conquer these challenges.

This past November, MCA hosted a variety of festivities for our Native American Heritage Month celebration. Approximately 550 people attended the events throughout Native American Heritage Month.

Co-Sponsors: ITSC, Tribal Management and Emergency Services, Native American Studies, American Multicultural Student Agency, Maverick Production Grant Program.

OPEN MIC**

N OV EMBER 2, 2019 Students had the opportunity to share their poetry, sing or play an instrument with some of the best local native students.

OWLMOUTH**

N OV EMBER 2, 2019 In the “Owlmouth” poetry chapbook and album, Michele Marie Desmarais reflected on experiences of historical trauma due to Indian residential schools as well as climate change and the responsibilities we have for our relatives, who include both human and other-then-human person. Desmarais was joined by “Owlmouth” musician Bill Arab for a presentation of poetry and music about the need for change and the process of healing.

FEATURED SPEAKER: ANTOINE EDWARDS JR** N OV EMBER 2, 2019

Antoine Edwards Jr. was the featured speaker for Native American Heritage Month. He grew up in Omaha and is Umonhon and Lakota.

He presented an incredible workshop for students discussing motivational practices, a healthy lifestyle, and appreciating culture. He shared testimonials on why he chose to live drug and alcohol free. He also shared stories of his travels from different reserves and reservations throughout the US and Canada working with different tribes.

BLOOD QUANTUM** N OV EMBER 1, 2019

To kick-off Native American Heritage Month, we hosted a screening of the newly released film “Blood Quantum.” A zombie virus decimates all of earth’s population except the Mi’Qmaq community of Red Crow.

Special guest, Hollywood actor, Gary Farmer appeared.

COMMUNITY BINGO** N OV EMBER 2, 2019

An afternoon filled with games, fun and prizes with special guest Bingo announcer Gary Farmer.

RAMBLIN’**

NATIVE AMERICAN CRAFT FAIR** N OV EMBER 3, 2019

Local and regional vendors were able to showcase of authentic and Native inspired jewelry, crafts, and native inspired art.

N OV EMBER 2, 2019 MCA hosted a screening of the feature film Ramblin’. Gwendolyn Pierce and McKenzie Jacobs were always inseparable until college and adulthood stood in the way.

ROC YOUR MOCS**

N OV EMBER 15, 2019 Students displayed their moccasins as they joined a community round dance with drum group YoungBucks, celebrating Native American culture.

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH*** Black History Month, observed in February, is an annual celebration of African American’s achievements and a time for recognizing the central role of blacks in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event was the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. MCA hosted a variety of wonderful and exciting events to celebrate Black History Month.

DANIEL D***

JA NUA RY 30, 2020 Over 50 students came to listen to renowned violinist, Daniel D. Daniel D is a classically trained contemporary violinist who began performing at age 12. He gained national recognition for his blend of Hip Hop, R&B, and Gospel music with performances for President Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

CHOP IT UP

N OV EMBER 25, 2019 Maverick Royalty hosted a day of free haircuts for students on campus. Another Level Barbershop was available throughout the day for fades, cuts and touch-ups.

Thanks to the barbers for their time and expertise. Approximately 30 students got to sit in the barber seat for some special treatment. A big shout out to Mr. Freeman for donating dress shirts and ties that day for students who needed some new business attire.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DR. IBRAM X. KENDI*** F EBRUA RY 4, 2020

Our office hosted a meet and greet and speaking engagement with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Dr. Kendi delivered an address discussing his book “How to be an Antriracist.” Dr. Kendi is one of America’s foremost historians and leading antiracist voices. Thirty-five students, staff, and faculty attended the meet and greet. Over 300 people attended his keynote address.

“BLACK INDIANS: AN AMERICAN STORY’” MOVIE SCREENING JA NUA RY 15, 2020

In collaboration with the Department of Black Studies and Native American Studies, our office hosted a screening of “Black Indians: An American Story.” This film brings to light a forgotten part of America’s past—the cultural and racial fusion of Native and African Americans.

Following the screening, there was a follow-up discussion and refreshments.

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24TH AND GLORY*** F EBRUA RY 5, 2020

Criss Library and MCA hosted a meet and greet with World Herald writer Dirk Chatelain, author of the book “24th and Glory.” The book chronicles the rise of North Omaha and the generation of athletes it spawned in the 1950s and ‘60s.

MEET THE GREEKS*** F EBRUA RY 11, 2020

In collaboration with Greek Life, we hosted an opportunity for students to learn about the nine historically Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLO) that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Students were able to meet representatives from each of these organizations and learn about their rich histories. This was followed with a panel discussion about each group’s contributions to Black history.

‘OUT OF OMAHA’: SCREENING AND DISCUSSION*** F EBRUA RY 13, 2020

MCA, Project Achieve, and the American Multicultural Student Agency hosted a screening of the documentary “Out of Omaha,” directed by Clay Tweel. “Out of Omaha” is an intimate portrait of twin brothers Darcell and Darrell Trotter, two young black men coming of age in the racially divided city of Omaha. Following the screening, there was a panel discussion of the film’s creators, including Darcell Trotter, Ryan Johnston (producer), Wayne Brown, and Skylar Reed. There were approximately 120 people in attendance.

BLACK PROFESSIONALS NETWORKING EVENT*** F EBRUA RY 19, 2020

Students met with a network of black entrepreneurs and business owners in the Omaha area. It gave students a great chance to form connections and develop opportunities with black professionals in our community. This event was hosted in collaboration with the Thompson Learning Community (TLC). There were approximately 30 students and professionals in attendance.

MARDI GRAS A TASTE OF NEW ORLEANS***

F EBRUA RY 25, 2020 MCA celebrated Mardi Gras with more than 100 student and campus partners who stopped in to join the team for a celebration of friendship and companionship. Food was catered from A Taste of New Orleans Food Truck. We also shared some delicious king cake with everyone. Thanks to Stormy from the Storm Chasers Triple-A Baseball League helping to serve and bring lots of smiles.

Mardi Gras, or as some people call it Fat Tuesday, is a carnival held in some countries on Shrove Tuesday, most famously in New Orleans. It is typically celebrated with parades, music, and food.

WHAT OMAHA DO YOU LIVE IN? WHAT UNO DO YOU ATTEND? M A RC H 11, 2020

HAIR BRAIDING *** F EBRUA RY 17, 2020

MCA hosted their first hair braiding event in honor of Black History Month for Maverick Royalty students and other students interested in attending. We created this event in response to the great reception Chop It Up received earlier in the year. More Hair by Kessa arrived enthusiastically with two braiders, supplies, and chairs.

MCA collaborated with the Center for Faculty Excellence (CFE), Office of Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS), Native American Studies, Goodrich Scholarship Program, International Studies and Programs, and the Department of Black Studies to host an important and dynamic conversation about race and how it impacts the experiences of students and other campus community members at UNO. The discussion focused on the experiences of students, faculty, and staff through a racial lens.

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NATIVE AMERICAN WELCOME MCA and UNO invited incoming Native American first year students and their families to our 2nd Annual Native American New Student Welcome Event and Involvement Fair. The event served as a time for students to connect with other students, faculty, and staff and learn more about campus and community resources, programs, and many other ways to get involved.

Metrics that Matter In our first year organizing the Native American New Student Welcome approximately 25 people were in attendance. Our event for 2019-20 was at 100% capacity with a 50% increase in campus and community involvement.

Guest speakers included the Director of the Tribal Management and Emergency Services Program and the Director of Native American Studies, both UNO alumni and very involved with educating and supporting our native students on campus. Native American Student alumnus and current native students gave testimonies about their own experiences at UNO.

Respect and Honoring Culture A prayer was offered for the meal and an opening of the event by UNO alumnus and respected Umohon elders in the Omaha community. An Honor Song was offered by the Young Bucks drum group and all of our guests where invited to line up to greet and shake hands with the incoming freshman.

Community Connections We would like to thank everyone involved in organizing and attending this event. Your presence and commitment to supporting our Native American students helps to build a strong foundation for their education and future.

• Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition

• Student Involvement

• SOMS (Soaring over Meth and Suicide)

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

• The Circle of Grandmothers

• Admissions

• Financial Support and Scholarships

• Intertribal Student Council

• Gender & Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) 14

The Native American welcoming ceremony was really motivating for me. It brought me a sense of belonging which I feel is something all new students long for.

Being a prior all online student I had my doubts about being on campus. I can really say that starting off my semester by meeting and getting to know future faces at the welcoming was really crucial for me. After leaving I felt more empowered about my future. It helped me overcome the doubts I had in my head about going back to school. To be able to be a part of the Native American group now here at UNO has been a main reason why I’ve chosen to stay on campus instead of online. Thank you.”

ASHLYN PLOOS TER, ROSEBUD SIOUX TRIBE MA JOR IN PUBLIC HE ALTH, MINOR IN TRIBAL MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENC Y SERVICES

• Military & Veteran Services

• Tribal Management and Emergency Services

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NATIVE AMERIC AN S TUDIES

PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION THAT HAS RECEIVED A GRADUATE/ PROFESSIONAL DEGREE

PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION THAT HAS RECEIVED A BACHELOR’S DEGREE

5%

9% 19%

of American Indians and Alaska Natives

of American Indians

10%

for the rest of the total population

for the rest of the total population

UNO DELIVERY SITE HEAD COUNT BY ETHNICITY & GENDER: SPRING 2019 White

5,141

4,629

Nonresident Alien

340

243

Two or more races

95 104

Race and ethnicity unknown

356

467

Native Hawaiin/Pacific Islander

8 6

Hispanic

1,005

740

African American

500

Asian

299

347

249

KEY

FEMALE MALE

American Indian

26 13

My first year at UNO I was nervous since I didn’t know anybody. Going to the Native American Welcome made me feel at home and made it easier to talk to my advisors/mentors.

They make sure I’m not alone and are willing to help anytime” DWAYNE KELLY, CHEROK EE, MA JOR CRIMINAL JUS TICE

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MCA AND THE COMMUNITY

MCA was very active within the community during the school year. We attended parades, held welcome events for incoming students, and even hosted bestselling author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. We pride ourselves on connecting with the community and doing our part. Having a solid foot print in the community allows MCA to better serve our students.

DR. IBRAM X. KENDI In the month of February, MCA brought New York Times best-selling author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi to UNO. Dr. Kendi shared his message and discussed his recent book, “How to Be an Antiracist,” with a community audience of over 300 people in the Thompson Alumni Center.

He also held an intimate question and answer session for students, along with a book signing. Dr. Kendi is the founding Director of The Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University in Washington, D.C.

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OUT OF OMAHA Over 150 people braved the cold on Feb. 13 to attend the viewing of the Movie “Out of Omaha” in the CPACS building. Produced by rapper J. Cole, the documentary follows brothers Darcell and Darrell Trotter growing up in the divided city of Omaha, Nebraska. After the viewing, a question and answer forum was held with a student panel and the community. In attendance were movie subjects Darcell Trotter, Wayne Brown, Skylar Reed, and writer Ryan Johnston.

JUNETEENTH AND NATIVE OMAHA DAYS PARADES MCA, in collaboration with Black Studies, the Black Excellence student group, and fellow Mavericks from across campus, participated in the Juneteenth and Native Omaha Days Parades. Both parades were a success and the participants had the opportunity to share the message of the university while simultaneously fostering relationships with the community. Establishing a presence in the community is how we can spread our message.

CHOP IT UP MCA and Maverick Royalty wanted to do something special for students before they went on holiday break. They decided to host Another Level Barber Shop where they gave a total of 30 students free haircuts. Additionally, students were provided with professional dress attire donated by retired educator Mr. James Freeman.

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DANIEL D Renowned violinist Daniel D shared his musical gift with us during the month of January at UNO. He performed in the Milo Bail Student Center and left students, faculty, staff, and the community in awe with his musical gifts. The setting allowed his music of Hip Hop, R&B, and Gospel to resonate throughout Milo Bail.

WELCOME EVENTS MCA, in collaboration with other departments on campus, hosted welcome events for students and their families prior to the start of fall semester. The events gave the students the opportunity to build connections, learn about resources, ask questions, and feel supported.

African American Welcome Brunch • Attendees: over 180 students and their families • Location: Venue at Highlander • Hosts: MCA & 13 other UNO departments

JAMES FREEMAN RETIREMENT MCA and many others paid tribute to Mr. James Freeman and wished him a happy retirement. Serving as the Director of Multicultural Affairs for 15 years, he dedicated himself to serving the students and will continue during retirement. Mr. Freeman is and always will be connected to MCA and UNO.

Latino Student Welcome Brunch • Attendees: over 200 students and their families • Location: Stockyard Exchange Building • Hosts: MCA & 14 other UNO departments

Native American Welcome Reception • Attendees: over 40 students and their families • Location: Community Engagement Center • Hosts: MCA & 9 other UNO departments

24TH AND GLORY The community was invited to a meet and greet with Omaha World Herald Writer Dirk Chrelain, author of “24th and Glory.” The book highlights the rise of North Omaha and the area’s athletes in the 1950s and 60s. Several greats such as Bob Boozer, Bob Gibson, Gale Sayers, Roger Sayers, Johnny Rodgers, Ron Boone, and Marlin Briscoe are celebrated within the book.

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SUMMER SCHOLARS

197

Total applicants

The Summer Scholars program is a college preparation program for juniors in high school that provides them the opportunity to enroll in a course at UNO. Summer Scholars exposes the students to a thriving college experience giving them a prominent advantage.

High Schools

Participants learn about college academic work, time management, college admission processes, ACT/ SAT preparation, college scholarships, and the financial process.

Interacting with faculty and staff, students explore career opportunities and participate in community service activities.

15

High schools

Abraham Lincoln High School

2

Bellevue East High School

2

Benson High School

27

Bryan High School

3

Burke High School

2

Central High School

4

Creighton Preparatory High School

1

Elkhorn High School

1

Millard South High School

1

North High School

16

South High School

64

Papillion La Vista High School

31

Ralston High School

1

Westside High School

13

*OPS Middle School College Program

Ethnicity

Yes

No

Blank

88

106

3

Hispanic or Latino

Ethnicity

82%

First Generation Students

66%

are part of either College Possible, Upward Bound, or Avenue Scholars

18

66%

had siblings or family members participate in the Summer Scholars Program

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American Indian & Alaska Native & Black

1

Asian

39

Asian & White

1

Black or African American

33

Black or African American & White

3

White

32

No Answer

88

Self Identified Gender Female

141

Male

55

Other

1

SCHOLARSHIPS FAFSA NIGHT Multicultural Affairs offers scholarships that are open to students attending UNO. Each award is based on a student’s academic effort, campus and community activity, and financial need. It’s important to keep in mind that the scholarship amount is disbursed evenly between the fall and spring semester provided enrollment requirements are met.

The Davis/Chambers Scholarship Recognizes the most academically talented students from diverse backgrounds that find the financial requirements of post-secondary education an obstacle. Awarded for the first time in 1990, the Davis/ Chambers Scholarship is already recognized as one of the university’s most important ways of honoring outstanding Nebraska students.

The Isaacson Incentive Scholarship Funded by the Jacob J. and Dossie M. Isaacson Estate, the Isaacson Incentive Scholarship was established to recognize the academic achievements of talented students throughout the Omaha area, while encouraging their enrollment at UNO. Both scholarships provide financial support for distinguished undergraduate students.

FAFSA nights, hosted twice in the fall semester, help students and their families complete the FAFSA application by providing one-onone assistance. Hosted by MCA in collaboration with campus and community partners, the events provide encouragement to students as they begin or continue their college career.

With the help of 37 volunteers a total of 122 students were assisted during the month of October. Students were able to enjoy refreshments along with the one on one assistance. We appreciate the collaborative efforts as we ensure the successful recruitment, retention, and graduation of underrepresented students.

WHAT IS THE FAFSA? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a government form that prospective and current college students (undergraduate and graduate) must submit each year to determine their eligibility for federal student aid. The FAFSA is also utilized to determine eligibility for some nonfederal student aid and various scholarships.

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MAVERICK ROYALTY MEN

Maverick Royalty is a program designed to increase retention rates of students at UNO, while also providing a strong sense of community and support. Maverick Royalty’s mission is to recruit, retain, graduate, and transition all of our students. The program started with 30 students and a diverse group of mentors ranging from staff, faculty, and administration to provide the support that our students need. There have been several highlights for Maverick Royalty with Wellness Wednesdays, the Big XII Conference, and the Chop It Up, to name a few.

CHOP IT UP

SCHOLARSHIPS

MCA and Maverick Royalty wanted to do something special for students before they went on holiday break. They decided to host Another Level Barber Shop where they gave a total of 30 students free haircuts.

Additionally, students were provided with professional dress attire donated by retired educator Mr. James Freeman.

Maverick Royalty students who maintain a 2.5 GPA, enroll in fall 2020 classes, meet with their mentor regularly, and attend workshops have the opportunity to earn a scholarship.

BIG XII CONFERENCE ON BLACK STUDENT GOVERNMENT In February, Maverick Royalty was able to have five students experience the 43rd annual Big XII Conference on Black Student Government.

The conference was held at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. Over 600 students from universities across the country gather to attend workshops, career fairs, and networking events. This was a great life changing experience for our Maverick Royalty Students.

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY Fitness plays a part in our overall physical and mental well-being, so Wellness Wednesdays was implemented to provide an opportunity for the Maverick Royalty students to participate in physical fitness if they chose. The students have the opportunity to exercise with program coordinator Will Smith, to support them on their exercise journey. This allows the program coordinator to build a rapport with the Maverick Royalty students and shows the commitment of the students.

MENTORS Mentors play a critical role in the success of Maverick Royalty, as they are the life line for our students. The students are paired with a mentor that they will meet with regularly throughout the school year to make sure things are going well. The mentors are able to provide advice, share experiences, and support the students on their academic journey.

WORKSHOPS Several workshops ranging from growth mind-sight to degree planning to financial literacy were held during the school year for the Maverick Royalty students to attend. These workshops provide students the opportunity to learn and grow both as students and individuals. Exposure to different things and new ideas is the importance of these workshops.

Maverick Royalty is a good program because it has allowed me to be myself and build connections with other students and staff. The mentors have shown me how to become a better student and learning the importance of being a leader.�

TRE GOULD, MAVERICK ROYALT Y S TUDENT

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MAVERICK ROYALTY WOMEN

KICK OFF PAINTING EVENT SEP T EMBER 19, 2019

This event allowed the students of UNO and College of St. Mary to meet and become acquainted with their mentors. College of St. Mary’s coordinator, Alexis, provided the food as well as the guest painter. The students were given a canvas, paint, paintbrushes, and a copy of the image they’d be painting. The painting was reflective of their personality.

Maverick Royalty is a one-year program that works with incoming freshman, generally first-generation students, to help increase retention rates at UNO. The program works in collaboration with The Links, Incorporated and College of St. Mary. Our focus is on five program components: (1) Health and Human Services, (2) The Arts, (3) National Trends and Services, (4) International Trends and Services, and (5) Services to Youth. We meet once a month either at UNO or at College of St. Mary for our programming which includes experts who cover a variety of topics.

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LIFE PLANNING

O C TO BER 17, 2019 The life plan considers all of the areas in your life that are important to you. This plan is based on a framework of personal values, hopes and dreams. For a college student this is imperative, as the risks and available impulses are many. The more you practice, the better you get, and the more natural the decision making feels. If you venture through life without a life plan it may be impossible to accomplish your goals in a reasonable time frame or with success.

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SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS

FINANCIAL LITERACY

The mission of this month is to raise awareness about sexual violence around the world, and to educate communities on how to prevent it.

Our students were able to engage in rich and meaningful conversations that will help this in the future.

This event was held at UNO and featured a guest speaker from the Financial Aid office to explain scholarships, grants, loans, and ways to be successful in college with money. This event allowed students to ask questions and seek clarification with certain issues they were having with their financial aid or general questions when applying for aid.

Students were given the opportunity to work with our guest speaker to create budgets and plans for their upcoming semester, as well as work on their Life Planning booklet with their mentors.

N OV EMBER 14, 2019

GIRLS INC. COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENT DEC EMBER 5, 2019

Each year our organization participates in a volunteer event for the students and this year we selected Girls Inc. We participated in a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) event called “Getting Wild with STEAM,� the theme was various animals. Each student was assigned to a station and they would complete the activity with the young girls and explain what was happening. There were tables for things like explaining camouflage, foot print matching, and blubber adaptation. Girls Inc., College of St. Mary, and UNO had a successful event with the young girls and hope to collaborate with Girls Inc. in the future.

JA NUA RY 16, 2020

END OF YEAR CELEBRATION Even though we were unable to have our celebration in-person, the students still completed their Life Plan booklet. Once completed, they used a PowerPoint template to list their major/minor, three priorities, short-term goals, and long-term goals. They submitted this as proof of their completion so they are able to receive the educational grant they earned from our partner, The Links, Incorporated as well as celebrate their completion of the program.

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Being a Maverick Scholar has helped me get endless support and advice from just about everybody in the Multicultural Affairs office. Because of Maverick Scholars, I began friendships and became a part of a group which had helped me feel at home in an unfamiliar place. Another thing that is amazing about being a Maverick Scholar, is that I learned it was a safe space for me to get all sorts of help no matter the reason.�

MISKI MOHAMED MAVERICK SCHOL ARS S TUDENT

MAVERICK SCHOLARS 2019-20 Maverick Scholars is a program developed for incoming underrepresented students who have no connection to another learning community. We provided services for a total of 333 students.

The MCA team works closely together in order to ensure success for these students. From academic workshops to campus involvement, it is the goal to assist these students and connect them with as many resources as possible.

It is the commitment of our office to be here with and for the Maverick Scholars throughout the entirety of their career here at UNO. As part of the requirements, we aim to meet a minimum of three times a semester with Maverick Scholars. Each meeting is guided by some important information specific to their enrollment at the university.

Additionally, these meetings provide the student with an opportunity to ask any specific questions they may have as each semester progresses.

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OUTREACH Personal connection is very important to help freshman feel part of the UNO family. We invited Maverick Scholars to come into the MCA office for one-on-ones, to discuss class schedules, campus life, resources, and all the amenities available to them in the office.

Knowing the importance of communication, consistent emails and phone calls were made to Maverick Scholars to keep them informed about events and the happenings on campus. We also sought their opinion as we surveyed the students asking for input on different topics so that we can better serve them.

METRICS MATTER During the 2019-20 year we more than doubled the students involved in the Maverick Scholars program. We were able to increase numbers by serving more of our underrepresented student population. In the past, Maverick Scholars supported our African American/Black Students and now we support many others.

DONNING OF THE KENTE

The Donning of the Kente is an annual cultural achievement ceremony celebrating the graduation of students who recognize their African roots. Utilizing the Ghanaian Kente cloth, a symbol of African- American heritage, graduates adorn their robes giving it a vibrant look to accent their accomplishments. Collaborating with the Black Studies Department, MCA hosts this ceremony to recognize students achievements and present each student with a Kente stole.

For the past several years, graduates have participated in the “donning” or the putting on of the Kente cloth. Family, friends, and associates join the celebration, alluding to the significance of togetherness. Students select an individual to join and honor them on stage. Receiving a certificate and a Kente stole, students become an example of what the “village” instills in them. Support from the university and the community reinforces the goal of recruitment, retention, and graduation of underrepresented students.

GRADUATE Hector Samani Linda Sedjro Kiara Bealer Michelle Brown Arianna Crum Taylor Givens-Dunn Epley Hamilton Payton Hogan Lentorious Jefferson Sakena Jones Nadia Kpegba

Jamie Kramer Tiffany Lassek Delicia McGhee Hauwa Muibi Nkeiru Ochuba Kilssy Rivera Hector Samani Linda Sedjro Joel Tapsoba Timothy Terrell Kim Whiteside

UNDERGRADUATE Yusuf Abdirahman Mohamed Bakari Daniel Bior Adrienne Cavill Magna Cum Laude

Erline Charles Sydney Doty Grace Evah-Nzoughe Kalil Johnson Kiera Johnson Elijah Kouma Abdi Mohamed Myah Sloane Tyquisha Valentine Wendpingda Jessica Ware Magna Cum Laude

Tiara Whitcomb Maryse Zekpa Moise Compaore

Estelle Dossavi Yovo Cum Laude

Vanessa Frost Donn Wesley Jones Demi Kulper Jennifer Maddocks Shannon Moore Aquil Muhammad Kenneth Owens Cameron Ram Melissa Rivera Renee Stewart Syntiche Waka Heaven Wozny DeAnna Young Ashley Fouche Latea Glenn Brianna Williams Magna Cum Laude

Anna Edet

Cum Laude Extra Muros

Magna Cum Laude

Jean Gnonlonfoun Geu Nhial Fawasi Odewale Matthew Pinkrah Lordina Quayson Fountoa Gervais Toni Ahlan Abdirahman Burton Bosan Caleb Brandon Markita Clark

Shayla Johnson Hamilton Oluwaseni Adekunle Jean-Pierre Folli-Akuete Folligan-Hemazro Joel Komla-Ebri Distinction

Joel Allou Cum Laude

Turki Alshehri Dylan Snyder

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LATINO GRADUATION

The Latino Graduate Celebrations started in the spring of 2015, the first fall celebration took place in 2018. The purpose of this celebration is to acknowledge the student’s successes and academic achievements at UNO. The event also pays homage to those individuals, including family, friends, faculty, staff, administrators, and other significant people, who have assisted and helped them through their journey to reach their degree and other amazing accomplishments.

This celebration is open to all students who would like to participate and any family members, friends, university staff and faculty, community members and UNO alumni who wish to attend.

At the celebration students are given a certificate of accomplishment and tri-color cord (red, white, and black—UNO colors).

SPRING 2019

FALL 2019

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December 18, 2019

No celebration

107

171

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students RSVP’d

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graduates would have been invited

NATIVE AMERICAN STUDIES HONORING

Cheyenne Robinson TRIBAL AFFILIATION: SOUTHERN CHE YENNE- AR APAHO MA JOR: EMERGENC Y MANAGEMENT AND DISAS TER SCIENCE MINOR: CRIMINAL JUS TICE AND TRIBAL MANAGEMENT EMERGENC Y SERVICES

“My name is Falyn Rowell. I am graduating with a major in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a minor in Native American Studies. My time at UNO has been amazing and unforgettable.

I have enjoyed all of the knowledge that I have gained, the people I have met, and the many things I have learned about myself. Proud to be a Maverick!”

Each year MCA joins the celebration of Native American Students during the Native American Studies Honoring. On behalf of the faculty of the Native American Studies program at UNO, Native students and students graduating with a Native Studies minor are honored and gifted with Pendleton blankets, decorated feathers, necklaces, and handmade drops that the graduates can wear over their gown at the UNO Commencement.

“My name is Liliana Tamayo and I’m graduating from UNO with a Bachelor of Arts and Science Sociology degree and a minor in Native American Studies.”

TRIBAL AFFILIATION: UMONHON TRIBE OF NEBR A SK A MA JOR: RECRE ATION ADMINIS TR ATION MINOR: NATIVE AMERIC AN S TUDIES, TRIBAL EMERGENC Y MANAGEMENT

“My name is Dakota Lieb. My time at UNO was filled with many challenges, but the people I met along the way helped guide me through the process of completing my undergraduate degree. Most of my time was spent studying at MCA, the Library, or de-stressing at the Rock Wall on campus. Overall, my time at UNO would not have been as enjoyable if I did not have the Inter-tribal Student Council family on my side throughout my time there.”

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THANK YOU TO OUR CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS From all of us in Multicultural Affairs, we would like to sincerely thank you for all that you do throughout the year to support our team and students. Like they say, it takes a village, we appreciate all you have done. It is the pure kindness and generosity of our partners that assist in our efforts to ensure the successful recruitment, retention and graduation of the underrepresented students we serve. We thank you for taking the time to collaborate, sponsor, and create wonderful opportunities for our students’ academic journeys. We look forward to the future and our continued partnerships.

College Possible Criss Library EducationQuest Project Achieve Goodrich Scholarships Success Academy Thompson Learning Community (TLC) Undergraduate Admissions

Native American Prime Time Family Reading Native Indigenous Centered Education Omaha Greeks Office of Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS) Financial Support and Scholarships

The Department of Black Studies

Gender and Sexuality Resource Center

Native American Studies

Student Involvement

Housing and Residential Life

Office of Civic and Social Responsibility

The American Multicultural Students Agency Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Nebraska Urban Indian Health Center Circle of Grandmothers

Academic and Career Development Center (ACDC) Student Success Senior Graphic Designer Student Success Spirit and Tradition Director Union Pacific

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. 0140RPTMA1020

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