OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
Open search box
The award-winning Diversity Learning Assistant program promotes inclusive and welcoming communities in Oregon State residence Halls through facilitated workshops and programs. As a function of University Housing and Dining Services the DLAs work and live within the residence halls and operate in the cooperative houses to lead discussions and activities around issues of diversity and social justice. They also act as a liaison for the six cultural resource centers on campus.
The UHDS Diversity Learning Assistant position was created as a peer education role to work with student-staff and student leaders in promoting inclusive and welcoming environments.
The mission of the Diversity Learning Assistant is to foster dialogue between residents on topics of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, ability, etc. and to promote an environment that celebrates all students through facilitated workshops and programs. We work on a daily basis to promote an inclusive community within the residence halls by engaging other residents in casual active discussions.
As the name indicates, the DLAs primary responsibility is to coordinate facilitation within communities to foster dialogue and promote inclusive environments. The DLAs are trained in several areas, including Team Liberation, readings for Diversity and Social Justice, and Teachings for Diversity and Social Justice, and the Building Inclusive Communities Workshop series.
Discussions
The DLAs can host intergroup dialogues, covering topics from gender, sexual orientation, and race to whiteness, oppression, and political correctness. They are also available on a personal level for one-on-one discussions.
Consultation
The DLAs will be happy to sit down with you and work with you to see what kind of needs your community has. If it is not something we can provide, we will work with you in finding the appropriate facilitator for your needs.
Cultural Programming
If you have an idea for a program dealing with a specific culture, but just don't know what to do or who to come to, schedule some time with the DLAs. We will be happy to point you in the right direction as far as offices on campus, people and other resources that will make your event a success.
Information and referral
If you would like to know what is happening at the cultural centers, who to talk to about facilitation, what certain holidays or observations are, come to us.
Although there are lots of programs and other resources we provide, there are some things that go beyond our scope of ability. Below are some areas that we will be happy to find other people on campus for you that would better serve your needs.