Wesleyan’s Students of Color group hosted an Alumni Panel Luncheon March 25 in Usdan University Center. The alumni guests met with students to share their memories, and discussed the strengths and weaknesses of the SOC community.
Rashida Shaw ’99, assistant professor of theater, spoke about her perspective as a Caribbean student, and her adjustment period at Wesleyan. She formed a support group with many other Caribbean students on campus. Shaw was one of the founding members of the West Indian Student Association (WISA).Jay Hoggard ’76, adjunct professor of music, spoke about various ways in which students of color can maximize their experience at Wesleyan. He suggested ways students can engage with alumni, and ways in which alumni can assist SOC.At left, Lashawn Springer ’08, assistant dean of admission, spoke about her challenges and successes as a former Student of Color Coalition intern with the 2011 intern, Ural Grant ’13. She spoke to the group about divides amongst women of color and men of color, and the formation of 200 Church, which is now a social justice residential area on campus. From left, Elisa Del Valle, assistant director of student activities and leadership development; sociology major Teju Adisa-Farrar ’13; and government major Ural Grant ’13 listen to the alumni panel members speak. Grant coordinated the luncheon. (Photos by Cora Lautze ’11)
Olivia Drake
Mike Mavredakis
Ziba Kashef
Andrew Chatfield