History

In efforts to promote an institutional culture that values and supports diversity, the Office of Multicultural Education was developed in 1984, under the leadership of Alfredo Gonzales, who is currently the Associate Provost at Hope College. Alfredo established a strong foundation for the Office of Multicultural Education. Building upon that foundation, the Office of Multicultural Education has had a number of outstanding Directors, who have contributed significantly to Diversity Initiative, including: Darnisha Taylor; Yoli Vega; Courtney Penn; D. Wesley Poythress; and Glinda Rawls. Vanessa Greene was appointed Director of Multicultural Education in October 2003.

The Office of Multicultural Education is charged to develop more multicultural leaders on campus, provide advisory support to students, student organizations, faculty, and administrators; assist in efforts to diversify the campus community; and enhance multicultural understanding through programs, training, and special events. Some specific responsibilities include:

• Providing personal, spiritual, social, academic, and career guidance to students from all backgrounds and assisting in their success at Hope College.
• Providing professional development opportunities to assist all constituents of the Hope community increase their understanding and appreciation of their own culture and others; and help prepare them for global citizenship.
• Assist in institutional efforts to coordinate and monitor campus climate and create an environment where everyone feels welcome.
• Advocate for students, faculty, and staff.
• Advise, support and provide leadership opportunities for multicultural student organizations.