Thursday, March 31, 2011

RAPP Honored with 2011 Just Community Award

It's an exciting day in the RAPP office:  We just received word that RAPP won a prestigious Just Community Award!

RAPP was recognized for its work over the last 25 years upholding the core principles of Just Community.

Though this is the first time RAPP has been recognized as a program with this award, many RAPPers through the years have been recognized with it, including:
  • Ahoo Tabatabai - Diversity Education & RAPP Program Coordinator
  • Un Kyong Ho - Diversity Education & RAPP Program Coordinator
  • William Harris -  Center for Community Engagement Program Director (and RAPP I member)
  • Nancy Paraskevopoulos - For student leadership work including RAPP participation and Peer Leader work
  • Rebecca Lehman - For student leadership work including RAPP participation and facilitation
Many thanks to Vicki Calonge & Kim Fulbright for providing support to RAPP's nomination!

Nancy Paraskevopoulos receiving a 2010 Just Community Award

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

"The Spirit of Excellence" Black Health Walk - Apr 9th!

From Collegiate 100:

Collegiate 100® Black Men’s Honorary in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association-Live Empowered® Initiavtive will host our Black Health walk entitled “The Spirit of Excellence” on April 9, 2011 at 9am on Sheakley Lawn at the University of Cincinnati.

Live Empowered® is an American Diabetes Association initiative that specifically targets the African American Community. Live Empowered® increases the awareness of diabetes while emphasizing the importance of making healthy lifestyle choices such as exercising and eating healthier.

Contributing Donors:
Jerome Jackson - Representing the African American Alumni Assoc.
United Black Student Association
The Wellness Center
Carol Tonge Mack - Representing the PRIZE program
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority INC, Zeta Chapter
The African American Cultural and Resource Center
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity INC, Beta Epsilon Chapter

Race & Sexuality Program - Apr 27th!

On Wednesday, April 27th, from 7PM to 9PM Stratford Heights RA and RAPP XXIV graduate Lisa W is hosting an evening of dialogue on race & sexuality.

All are invited to participate in a series of activities to explore our daily experiences of our race and our sexual orientation.  We'll also explore our values and beliefs around race and sexuality and discuss racism & heterosexism.

The program will take place in the Stratford Heights Pavilion and food will be provided for participants.

The program is a re-presentation of the workshop developed for Harambe, RAPP, and RAPPORT members last quarter.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Spring Community Service Fair

From the Center for Community Engagement:

 Still looking for ways to get involved and give back this year?
Getting a late start on your service hours for scholarship renewal?
Want to meet other student leaders who are passionate about volunteerism and making a difference?

Stop by tomorrow’s Spring Service Fair

When: Wednesday, March 30 anytime between 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Take a break between class and find ways to get involved!
Where: TUC Atrium

The following organizations will be present to answer questions and get YOU INVOLVED to volunteer and give back today!

Non Profits & Community Organizations:
CET
Cincinnati Computer Cooperative
Cincinnati Museum Center
Cincinnati Parks
Freestore Foodbank
Girl Scouts of Western Ohio
Girls on the Run of Greater Cincinnati
Gorman Heritage Farm
Granny's Garden School
Kids Against Hunger
Mercy Franciscan St. John
Santa Maria Community Services 
St. Vincent de Paul - Cincinnati
Village Life Outreach Project, Inc.
Washington United Church of Christ
Wesley Chapel Mission Center
Whiz Kids/ City Gospel Mission

Student Service Groups:
BearCAT Community Action Team
Cats For Cause
Colleges Against Cancer/ Relay For Life
Engineers Without Borders
Into the City
Knit for the Needy
Peace Village
Rotaract Club
Silver Wings
Students for Ecological Design


Center for Community Engagement
Student Affairs and Services | University of Cincinnati
PO Box  210138 | Cincinnati, OH  45221-0138
2639 Clifton Ave. (Stratford Heights)
community.engagement@uc.edu | (513) 556-1559 

Registration Open for April Diversity Conference

From UC News:

Registration Open For April Diversity Conference

Registration for the third annual University of Cincinnati Diversity Conference on April 20 is now possible.

Date: 3/17/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: Greg Hand
Phone: (513) 556-1822

UC ingot   Registration for the University of Cincinnati’s third annual Diversity Conference is now open. The conference will be held Wednesday, April 20, 2011.

"With the theme 'Diversity & Inclusion: Accelerating the Transformation,' the conference will highlight pedagogy, experiential knowledge and innovative practices that encourage individuals and organizations to build vibrant, diverse and inclusive environments," said Stacy L. Downing, conference co-chair.
Brenda J. Allen, Ph.D., Associate Dean in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and a Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Colorado Denver (UCD) will open the conference with a thought-provoking morning presentation followed by 30 exceptional concurrent sessions from faculty, staff, students and community partners.

Three outstanding individuals will receive the Marian Spencer Diversity Ambassador Award during the lunch session and attendees will have the opportunity to participate in fireside chats with Provost Santa Ono, Vice President & Chief Diversity Officer Mitchel Livingston and Dean & Chair of the Diversity Council Louis Bilionis.

"The conference will conclude with a reception allowing attendees to network and debrief from a fantastic day of conversations," Downing said.

To review the agenda, or to register, visit the President's Diversity Council website at www.uc.edu/diversity.

Monday, March 28, 2011

RAPPlications for RAPP XXVII Now Available

While RAPP XXVI is still going strong building through its year, it's that time of year again:

Recruitment for RAPP XXVII begins today!

The interest form is printed and is also available online.

The Join RAPP! page went live this morning with information on RAPP XXVII.


Recruitment will run through the application deadline of September 30th.  If you have any questions about RAPP or application process, contact Rebecca Lehman, RAPP coordinator, at lehmanrl@uc.edu or 513.556.6119.

Enough is Enough Anti-Violence Campaign - Apr 4-8!

From UC News:

UC Joins National Anti-Violence Campaign


Tragedies at Virginia Tech and other universities have inspired “Enough is Enough,” a national campaign to stop violence. The University of Cincinnati will support the national campaign with a week of activities.

Date: 3/25/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: Greg Hand
Phone: (513) 556-1822

UC ingot   A week-long effort to halt campus violence will mark the beginning of spring quarter at the University of Cincinnati. From April 4 through April 8, the UC community will join together as part of a nationwide campaign to ensure peace and security throughout America’s schools.
Enough is Enough logo


The “Enough is Enough” campaign is coordinated across the country by NASPA Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. The campaign grew out of a call to action by Zenobia Lawrence Hikes, vice president of student affairs at Virginia Tech, whose analysis of the 2007 tragedy at that university inspired NASPA to chart a “new paradigm for safety and security on the nation’s campuses.” The "Enough is Enough" Campaign unites administrators, educators, and counselors from high schools and colleges, as well as parents and students. “The kind of violence that results in campus tragedies begins – and therefore must be addressed – long before it reaches our schools and campuses,” said Daniel S. Cummins, chair of UC’s participation in “Enough is Enough.”

At the University of Cincinnati, events each day will explore different aspects of violence prevention, safety and security.

On Monday, April 4, in a noon ceremony at Tangeman University Center, campus leaders will charge the university community to reflect on the roots of violence and to take action to prevent it. The cost of campus violence will be presented through a display in the Tangeman University Center lobby. Everyone in the UC community will be asked to sign a pledge to show solidarity to end violence in society and on campus. Each person who signs will receive a wristband to demonstrate their commitment.

Tuesday, April 5, will be a day of reflection as Dean Valerie Hardcastle describes how a violent act affected the McMicken College of Arts & Sciences. Her presentation at noon in the MainStreet Cinema will be followed by a question and answer session with the dean and UC Police Chief Gene Ferrara.

A call to action will highlight Wednesday’s agenda on April 6 with a clinic on civility and mediation presented by the University Ombuds at noon in MainStreet Cinema. UC’s residence halls will explore cyber bullying and the risks of online social networks with a 9:00 p.m. program in Daniels Hall.

Thursday, April 7, will focus on violence prevention, as nationally known self-defense expert Debbie Gardner offers a seminar at noon in the MainStreet Cinema.

The week will end Friday, April 8, with a Picnic for Peace on McMicken Commons from noon to 2:00 p.m., sponsored by Student Government.

Throughout the Enough is Enough Week, members of the university community who may wish assistance or desire counseling support are encouraged to contact
Referrals to a member of campus ministry may be made through the Dean of Students Office (513-556-5250) 745 Steger Student Life Center.

Partners for the UC observance of “Enough is Enough” include the McMicken College of Arts & Sciences, the BearCAT (Community Action Team), Office of Ethnic Programs & Services, African American Cultural & Resource Center, Student Government, Graduate Student Governance Association, LGBTQ Center, University Ombuds, Office of Resident Education and Development, Office of Student Life, UC Police, and UC Women’s Center.

For more information on UC's "Enough is Enough" campaign, see http://www.uc.edu/conduct/enough.html
For more information about the national “Enough is Enough” campaign, see http://www.naspa.org/enough/

Friday, March 25, 2011

RAPP and MRCC Movie Night

On Monday April 4 @ 6pm, come get informed about the dark side of immigration laws when we view "9500 Liberty."


The film will be showing in Stratford Height Pavilion located at 2634 Stratford Ave., the Pavilion is Building 16. 


"9500 Liberty" is a compelling documentary about when anti-immigration laws go bad. It examines disturbing cases of racial profiling and their devastating effects on a community in Prince William County, Virgina, both socially and economically.

Following the film, there will be a group discussion.

FREE FOOD will be provided!!! So you should really come!!!


This event is being sponsored by RAPP and MRCC.



Check out the Facebook event page to see who else will be there!

"Life of Mind" Research & Scholarship of UC Faculty Series on Technology - Apr 19th & May 10th!

From UC News:

New Lecture Series Showcases Innovative UC Research and Scholarship


The series will focus on a one-word theme each quarter.


Date: 3/23/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: Dawn Fuller
Phone: (513) 556-1823

UC ingot   The following message is from Geneva Miller, associate to Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs & Provost:

The “Life of the Mind” lecture series will showcase the innovative research and scholarship of UC faculty. This new series, co-sponsored by the Office of the Provost, the Chair of the UC Faculty, and the UC Libraries, will focus on a one-word theme each quarter as the anchor for discussion by a diverse set of UC faculty “thought provocateurs.”  
This series begins Spring Quarter with “Life of the Mind” presentations on the theme of “Technology.”
Six distinguished faculty members will address “Technology” from unique and diverse perspectives:
April 19, 2011, 3:30-5 p.m., Alumni Center   
   Christy K. Holland, College of Medicine
   John McEvoy, McMicken College of Arts and Sciences
   Carlo Montemagno, College of Engineering and Applied Science

May 10, 2011, 3:30-5 p.m., Alumni Center 
   Peter DePietro, College-Conservatory of Music
   Howard Jackson, McMicken College of Arts and Sciences
   Ming Tang, College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning

Please go to http://www.libraries.uc.edu/lifeofthemind/ for further details.
We are delighted to welcome all students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of UC to these exciting and provocative discussions with our excellent faculty.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Annual Hornstein Lecture: Never Again, Yet Again - A Personal Struggle with the Holocaust and Genocide - Apr 10th!


The Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education would like to invite you and your students to attend “The Annual Hornstein Lecture: Never Again, Yet Again: A Personal Struggle with the Holocaust and Genocide” on Sunday, April 10, at 10 a.m. at Wise Temple. 

Stephen Smith, the executive director of the Shoah Foundation Institute at the University of California, will speak on his personal journey as a Christian who confronted anti-semitism and the Holocaust, and the ways in which it has changed his life. He will ask in what way the 52,000 testimonies of Holocaust survivors in the Shoah Foundation archive can act as a powerful conscience for our age, whether their voices will be sufficient to curb the ongoing tide of violence, or if there is a role we all can play to reduce human suffering.

As part of the Racial Awareness Program, we invite you to explore these challenging questions with us. Gaining insight into the Holocaust has enormous implications for modern day genocide, and can help to bring about peace and justice in the world today.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Frances Donohue at 513.487.3055 or fdonohue@holocaustandhumanity.org. Wise Temple is located at 8329 Ridge Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236.

Sincerely,
 The Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Some Mid-Year Thoughts on RAPP XXVI

At the end of each quarter, the facilitators and I spend time looking at feedback from our current RAPP members and some of the numbers I like to play with. This year I found something exciting in our retention rates that I want to reflect on openly.

Retention rates in RAPP are something I have limited data on. We know some limited numbers on RAPP XVIII through XXII and more thorough information on RAPP XXIII through now.

There are three numbers we keep track of nowadays:
  • Acceptance - How many people we invite to join RAPP.
  • Commitment - How many people continue after the second meeting (meaning, they could come to the first two meetings to try us out and withdraw without impact).
  • Completion - How many people participate all the way through to the end of the schoolyear.
I calculate retention by dividing the commitment number by the completion number.  More explanation on the process can be found in this previous post.

At the beginning of the year, I set a goal of 80% retention.  I've been told and read repeatedly that 80% retention is a solid amount for a year-long co-curricular program in higher education.


Since I became involved in RAPP, each year our greatest amount of withdrawals (people who decide they can no longer participate in RAPP) happens in late fall quarter through winter quarter.  I've stopped looking at retention at the end of fall quarter because I've learned it's not predictive of final retention.  I took some time this week to look at it, though, knowing that the bulk of withdrawals are usually done by the end of winter quarter (though we usually lose a couple more people in spring).


RAPP XXVI's current retention rate is 94%!

Including two people who withdrew from RAPP at/before the first meeting to allow people from the waiting list to get into the current year, we accepted 73 students into RAPP XXVI.  Of these, 68 committed to the program.  We still have 64 of them involved!

I don't really know why this is as it is at this point. I'm going to throw out a few ideas I'm starting with:
  • We have an amazing group of committed individuals!  During their interviews, we explored issues of commitment and group development and why they wanted to be in RAPP. To a tee, folks were able to give well thought answers, demonstrating an understanding of what they were getting into and what it took to be successful.
  • We have an amazing team of Peer Leaders! Amber, Brice, Jojo, Marjorie, and Rachel have been doing amazing work supporting RAPP XXVI members - they challenge them to think in new ways, they support them through the difficult times, and they bring a lot of fun and friendliness.
  •  We have an amazing team of facilitators!  Our Public Ally Kinsey has worked hard at developing into a facilitator and has provided an immense amount of administrative support, further enhancing our between-meetings contact with RAPP members.  Our intern Kimmins has continued to develop their facilitation and peer education skills and has worked hard to connect our group to campus events and opportunities.
  • Again, we have an amazing group of committed individuals! People have been doing their best to demonstrate commitment through attendance and engagement. Communication has been key, with folks communicating clearly why they're there and why they're not when they're not.
  • We're a bit exclusive! We accepted 73 people - which in the end left several people still on a waiting list to get in. For me, this seems like it's a bit of incentive to make sure that I demonstrate my commitment - I know that my spot was wanted by someone who didn't get the opportunity to participate.
We've got another quarter ahead - one that can be the most difficult in many ways.  Trust that RAPP XXVI is a rockin' awesome group, though!
A chunk of RAPP XXVI Wednesday braving the cold at winter retreat!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Recognizing Attendance - We Survived Winter!

Each quarter in RAPP we have four three-hour meetings and an overnight retreat.  On the one hand, it's only five times we come together.  On the other, we're a group of students - meaning we usually have a lot going on and with unexpected issues like personal or family illness or accidents it can be hard to make it to everything.

With that in mind, I like to take time to recognize the many students who overcome these challenges and make it to every meeting and the retreat.  For RAPP XXVI, the following students had perfect attendance in winter quarter 2011:

Adolphe H*
Alexis S*
Alix L*
Allison M*
Andrew B*
Ani N*
Barbie A
Bianca R
Cassie B
Charlene M
Chris L*
Elsa N
Jackie M-K
Joey S*
Kevin W*
Kyle C*
Matt M*
Matthew W*
Melissa D
Mickey W
Mohammad R
Sara K
Siva I*
Tianshu L*
Toni B*
Victoria M

*Have attended all meetings & retreats for the year!

Many thanks to all the RAPPers for their commitment this quarter!

Many thanks also to our Peer Leaders, who are continuing to go above and beyond in their work and attendance!  Great job this quarter Amber E, Brice M, Jojo A, Marjorie B, and Rachel B!

Monday, March 21, 2011

30 Mosques in 30 Days


On Monday April 11 @ 7pm in 500 Swift, UC International Programs is bringing Aman Ali to speak about "30 Mosques in 30 Days: An American Ramadan Road Trip Adventure."

Aman Ali is a stand-up comedian and one of  the only young Muslim voices in the public spotlight today. In the past year alone, he's made appearances on HBO, ABC News, CNN, CSPAN, and NPR to talk about his upbringing as a Muslim growing up in America.

As a comic, he's traveled all over the world for performances and regularly hits the road for shows at colleges and comedy clubs all around the country. His vivid storytelling style of stand-up comes from his strong background in journalism. Aman is also a reporter that has spent the past seven years traveling the country working for publications such as USA Today, Reuters, and the Associated Press.

In 2010, Aman and his friend Bassam Tariq visited 30 mosques in 30 days in 30 states and blogged about it at "30mosques.com." For Ramadan 2011, Aman and Bassam will visit the other 20 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, in search of more unique stories about the diversity of American Muslims.

(Aman grew up in Ohio!)

This event is open and FREE to the public.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Spring Community Service Fair - Mar 30th!


Looking for non-profit partners for your programs or classes?  
The Student Leadership Service Council in partnership with the Center for Community Engagement is sponsoring a Spring Community Service Fair to connect students with student service groups, student leaders to other service group leaders, and all of the above to non-profit organizations that need your volunteer help!  

In addition, the Service Fair is an opportunity for faculty and staff to connect with non-profit organizations; perhaps there are ways you can collaborate with a non-profit through your programming, service-learning courses, or you just want to get involved and volunteer yourself.

Stop by TUC Atrium on Wednesday, March 30 from 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m. to network and make a difference!

Saturday, March 19, 2011

The Great Human Race 5 & 10K - May 15th!



Join the Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education at the second annual GREAT HUMAN RACE on Sunday, May 15, 10:00 a.m. at Lunken Airport Playfield! This annual race raises funds for Holocaust education efforts in Cincinnati and beyond.
The Great Human Race” 5 and 10k walk and run is a collective expression of our community’s commitment to combating hate, prejudice, and indifference. By joining us in solidarity, participants show their support for Holocaust education, helping us create a more tolerant, inclusive, and peaceful world. The race will feature live entertainment by Clark Montessori’s 29-member Caribbean steel drum band, Steel Rain, assorted refreshments, a goodie bag for all race participants, and a stylish race tee-shirt.

All men, women, children, and dogs are welcome to join us as a we walk towards a better future for our children. Registration costs $20 before May 6, $25 beginning May 7. Participants can register individually or as a team. For more information or to register, visit our website or contact Frances Donohue (513.487.3055)

Lunken Airport Playfield is located at Beechmont and Wilmer Avenues, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Run for the Roses Event - May 7th!


The Higher Education Mentoring Initiative

The Higher Education Mentoring Initiative (HEMI) is a partnership between Hamilton County Commissioner Greg Hartmann, Hamilton County Job and Family Services, the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, and Great Oaks. HEMI seeks to reduce delinquency and helps prepare foster children for post-secondary education. The initiative will recruit, train and support mentors to establish long term, positive relationships with foster care youth. The mentors will assist, encourage and support academic achievement through high school and help create a direct pathway to higher education.

derby banner
On Saturday, May 7, the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services is hosting a Kentucky Derby fundraising event (Run for the Roses) from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Peterloon Estate in Indian Hill to help support HEMI and the foster youth it serves.  All monies raised will support mentors, HEMI programs, and college scholarships. We hope you will find it in your heart to support this worthy cause.
For more information:


You Can Help!

The UC Foundation.
You can support our effort by donating to the HEMI Fund. Click here to donate now.
Thank you for your generosity!

UC Early Learning Center Benefit - Apr 7th!


Faculty and Staff Invited to Event to Benefit the UC Early Learning Center

The event features a wine tasting and silent auction.

Date: 3/10/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: UC Early Learning Center
Phone: (513) 961-2825

UC ingot   The UC Early Learning Center Parent Committee invites faculty and staff to a wine tasting and silent auction to benefit the center. The event takes place from 6-8:30 p.m., Thursday, April 7, at the UC African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC).

The center serves UC and the Cincinnati community in providing early childhood education programs for children aged three months to five years, as well as children aged six-to-eight years over the summer months.

Tickets can be purchased in advance. For more information, click on the link below.


Thursday, March 17, 2011

Worldfest 2011 Keynote Speaker: Juana Bordas

From UC News and Student Activities & Leadership Development:

UC Worldfest Keynote Speaker Addresses Leadership in a Diverse and Dynamic Community

Award-winning author and leadership executive Juana Bordas joins the University of Cincinnati’s Worldfest events on April 25.

Date: 3/14/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: Dawn Fuller
Phone: (513) 556-1823
Photos By: Provided

UC ingot   Award-winning author Juana Bordas will highlight UC’s 2011 Worldfest celebration and its theme of global education. Bordas’ lecture, “The Power of WE: Leading our Diverse and Dynamic Community,” will take place at 5:30 p.m., Monday, April 25, in MainStreet Cinema of UC’s Tangeman University Center. The event, free and open to the public, will be followed by a Q&A session and book signing in Mick & Mack’s Contemporary Café, located on the third level of TUC.
Juana Bordas
Juana Bordas

Bordas is president of Mestiza Leadership International in Denver, an organization that promotes a more diverse and inclusive society through training and leadership services. She is also a former faculty member for the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), a nonprofit educational institution and global provider of executive education.

Bordas has dedicated her life to serving women and the Latina community. She was the first president and CEO of the National Hispana Leadership Institute, an organization created in Washington, DC in 1987 to address the disparity of representation of Latinas in leadership positions. She is founder of the Mi Casa Women’s Center in Denver, Colo.

Bordas is author of the book, “Salsa, Soul and Spirit: Leadership for a Multicultural Age,” which received the 2008 International Latino Book Award for outlining  a multicultural leadership business model that incorporates practices from African-American, Latina and Indian cultures.

She is a member of the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame and is a recipient of the Wise Woman Award for women’s policy studies. In 2009, she was named Unique Woman of Colorado by the Denver Post and the Colorado Women’s Foundation.

Worldfest


A former U.S. Peace Corps volunteer, Bordas received the Franklin Williams Award from the U.S. Peace Corps for her lifelong commitment to advancing communities of color. 
 
For more information about the lecture, contact UC’s Student Activities and Leadership Development at 513-556-6115.

UC’s Worldfest celebration, first held in 1996, is a week-long series of events to observe UC’s world of cultures on campus as well as the top-research university’s worldwide impact.  Numerous events are organized by UC’s international student organizations.

Worldfest 2011 events get underway on Friday, April 22, and end with the highly popular, student-organized Taste of India celebration, which will take place from 2-5 p.m., Sunday, May 1, in the Great Hall of TUC.

Worldfest on Facebook

Worldfest on Twitter

Recommend Dedicated Students to Assist Survivors of Sexual Violence

From UC News & the UC Women's Center: 

Help Recommend Dedicated Students To Assist Sexual Violence Survivors


Peer Advocates volunteer to provide campus and community advocacy services to victims of sexual assault on behalf of the University of Cincinnati. Applications are now being accepted.

Date: 3/14/2011 12:00:00 AM
By: Greg Hand
Phone: (513) 556-1822

UC ingot   The University of Cincinnati Women’s Center is looking for dedicated students willing to serve as volunteer Peer Advocates. 
 
“Peer Advocates provide confidential support to student victims of sexual assault, intimate partner violence and stalking,” said Kim Fulbright, program coordinator. “They must complete 40 hours of training and their work is supervised by the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. “

UC’s response to victims of sexual violence is based on round-the-clock, confidential access to information, referral services and support, Fulbright said, and Peer Advocates ensure that students get the services they need.

Prospective Peer Advocates submit an application and participate in an interview. Applicants must have access to personal transportation.

“We’re looking for mature and dependable individuals,” Fulbright said. “Advocates must be able to actively listen and communicate. They should be non-judgmental and have an understanding of the needs of victims of sexual and gender violence.”

Once accepted into the program, volunteer advocates are trained in issues related to sexual violence through a 40-hour training coordinated and facilitated by the UC Women’s Center. 

For more information about UC’s Reclaim Peer Advocates, and to download a copy of the application form, see http://www.uc.edu/ucwc/programs/reclaim_peer_advocates.html

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

New Presentation on Islam Available from Interfaith Speakers


New Educational Presentations by Interfaith Speakers in Cincinnati
On Islam and the Rise in Anti-Muslim Sentiments
Call to set up a presentation for your class or staff
 
Background
In recent times, violence & terrorism has unfortunately become associated with Islam and Muslims. According to a newly released Poll by Gallup, Americans are more than twice as likely to express prejudice against Muslims as they are against Christians, Jews, or Buddhists. Although nearly two-thirds of Americans say they have little or no knowledge of Islam, a majority have an unfavorable opinion of Islam. Such findings underscore the need for education and discussions about Islam and Muslims.

A Newly Created Interfaith Educational Committee
In an effort to reduce the rise in Anti-Muslim sentiments, an interfaith educational effort was initiated in Cincinnati through the co-operative effort of Bridges for a Just Community, The UC Peace Village, Muslim Mothers Against Violence (An initiative of the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati), and The Council on American Islamic Relations. The goal of this Interfaith Educational Committee is to promote mutual respect through on-site presentations on Islam from a Muslim and a non-Muslim perspective.

Our Presentation
Our presentation consists of a quick overview of Muslim traditions and practices, followed by an interactive conversation with the students about common misconceptions about Islam and Muslims and a message of tolerance from a non-Muslim presenter. Educators and administrators will have a better understanding of how to interact with Muslim students or Muslim coworkers in a post 9/11 environment while ensuring an inclusive and safe learning environment for all students where they can fulfill their potential and perform their best.
 
The interactive presentation increases knowledge of Islam focusing on similarities between faiths to foster respect of students of all backgrounds. The resources and information will help educators promote diversity and teach students about the harmful effects of bias, prejudice, and hate.

How to Book Speakers
We welcome and encourage you to set up an on-site presentation with us for your staff and students by calling Dr. Steve Sunderland at 513-919-2538 or send an email to stephen.c.sunderland@uc.edu.
 

Sincerely,
Chip Harrod (BRIDGES for a Just Community)
Dr. Steve Sunderland (University of Cincinnati’s Peace Village)
Zeinab Schwen (Council on American Islamic Relations)
Homa Yavar (Muslim Mothers Against Violence)

Alumni Association Spring Events!


Spring has sprung!
Combat cabin fever and celebrate the season with your fellow Bearcats!


Spring Bearcat Blitz is a pre-game tailgating event for Bearcat Bowl V, UC's spring football game on April 16! Parking is $20 and first-come first-served in the lot adjacent to the Alumni Center. Food and beverage available for purchase on site. Stay tuned for the official game time! More information.
Save The Date for Homecoming 2011  --  October 15
UC Night at the Reds on Friday, April 29, 7:10 pm offers pre-game festivities and FREE giveaways at the Reds fan zone, starting at 6 pm. Provost Santa Ono will be tossing out the first pitch! Discounted tickets are available at www.reds.com/ucalumni. A portion of the proceeds from online sales benefits the UC Alumni Association.
Alumni Weekend, May 13-15, is a veritable Spring “Homecoming.” Alums can enjoy walking and bus campus tours, a Skyline and Graeter’s lunch buffet, reunions and a Golden Bearcat Brunch honoring alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. Check out all event details and register here.
Sibs Weekend, May 20-22, gives current students and their siblings the opportunity to take in all the exciting things our campus and city have to offer. More information.
UC Day Celebration -- 55 years of recognizing Outstanding Alumni
Join fellow Bearcats June 9 at the Kingsgate Marriott for a reception at 6 pm followed by dinner at 7 pm recognizing outstanding alumni. Come see this year’s recipients of the Taft Medal presented by the President, Distinguished Service, Young Alumni and the Mosaic diversity awards. More information.


For registration information regarding any of our upcoming local events, please visit www.alumni.uc.edu/events or call (513) 556-4344.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

$tart $mart Workshops - Mar 31st & Apr 4th!

Please help the Women’s Center promote a really great opportunity for graduating women seniors to learn how to negotiate a first salary and benefits.  This workshop is amazing!  Space is limited; dinner is provided so encourage students to RSVP NOW!  

Workshops are offered Thursday, March 31st,and Monday, April 4th, both from 5PM to 7:30PM.  RSVP to Amy.Howton@uc.edu by March 29th!

WorldFest 2011 - Apr 22nd -May 1st!



WorldFest 2011 is right around the conner. This year's focus is Global Education. The Keynote Speaker is Juana Bordas






From the Public Allies Cincinnati listserv:


Hey everyone, you are cordially invited to put your headbands and dollar-sign bling on for Financial Fitness Day!

There will be lots of presenting partners alongside Brighton Center's Financial Services Department and it could be a great networking opportunity in addition to service.  

Event and volunteer info below:
Are your finances as healthy as they could be? Boost your financial fitness at this FREE event at Xavier University, Conaton Learning Commons, Dana Avenue and Ledgewood. Find easy access to resources that can help you build your financial fitness and be eligible for great door prizes! Free transportation from two Northern Kentucky locations. Click here to register. For more info, contact lucy.crane@uwgc.org, call 513-762-7192 or click here.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Xavier University, Conaton Learning Commons
(Dana Avenue & Ledgewood)
  • Volunteers will coordinate various aspects of the day including greeting attendees, registration, workshop assistance, AV assistance, parking, staffing food tables, etc.
  • All volunteers receive a free "Live United" t-shirt.
  • 2 shifts available: 8AM-12 PM or 12-4PM.

Visit this website to register and learn more about how you can help.


Monday, March 14, 2011

Study Abroad Diversity Scholarships in Turkey



Study Abroad Scholarships in Turkey for African American, Hispanic and Native American students
The Turkish Coalition of America (TCA) has a diverse array of scholarship programs that support its educational mission. One of these programs provides up to 100 scholarships to African American, Hispanic American and Native American students who choose Turkey as their study abroad destination.

TCA Scholarships range from $500 to $2,000 per student:
  • $2,000 for a semester or year at a Turkish institution.
  • $1,000 for Turkish language studies at a Turkish institution.
  • $1,000 for summer programs lasting for more than 4 weeks at a Turkish institution.
  • $500 for summer programs lasting up to 4 weeks sponsored by US educational institutions or Turkish institutions.
  • $500 for participants in university/college-sponsored study tours to Turkey.
And these are awarded to college and graduate students who are:
  • U.S. citizens of African American, Hispanic/Latino or Native American ethnic origin.
  • Enrolled full time, in good standing at an accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Accepted to a study abroad program or language program at a university in Turkey.
  • Willing to share experiences in Turkey, TRNC or Bosnia Herzegovina with the TCA community and Diversity Abroad.
For more information, or to apply, please visit: www.turkishcoalition.org