Malik Louis (left) and Joseph Oquendo dance during the First Annual Latino Greek BBQ Monday.

Groups welcome most diverse class

By: TAMARA BEST

Posted: 8/19/08

In addition to setting academic records, the incoming freshmen class is also breaking records in diversity, according to the Office of Admissions.

"I am very pleased with the quality and diversity of the freshman class and grateful for the hard work of so many UGA faculty, staff and students who assisted the admissions office throughout the recruitment cycle," Nancy McDuff, associate vice president of admissions and enrollment management, said in a University news release.

Approximately 21 percent of the incoming class identified themselves as not Caucasian, with increases in black and Hispanic student enrollment.

"I think it is good to see that diversity at UGA," Tiffany Reed, a freshman from Jonesboro, said. "It's one of the reasons I decided to come here."

Several departments on campus advise multicultural organizations that help students find cultural and social niches.

The Office of Intercultural Affairs advises 43 different student organizations and includes the African-American Cultural Center, International Student Life, Multicultural Services and Programs and the Office of Success and Outreach.

"Throughout the first couple weeks of school there will be numerous events that our office and the student organizations that we advise that will welcome all students on campus," Melissa Shivers , director of student affairs in the Office of Intercultural Affairs, said.

EVENTS THIS WEEK

Today:

- Connections Cookout. Sponsored by the Black Affairs Council. Myers Quad. 5 to 8 p.m.

Friday:

- The African Student Union's Welcome Back Cookout. Sponsored by African Student Union. Food and drinks and a soccer tournament. Students can also learn more about the organization. Myers Quad. 5 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, August 27:

- Intercultural Affairs Open House: The Big Chill. Sponsored by Intercultural Affairs. An open house to begin the school year, with games, food and ICA organizations. 4 to 6 p.m. Memorial
Hall Ballroom.

One organization that is seeking to provide freshmen with exposure to different multicultural clubs is the Black Affairs Council. Today, the Council will hold its second annual "Connections Cookout."

"Over 10 diverse student organizations will be present, allowing students to make connections," Alfred Richardson, BAC president, said. Richardson also said the organization has a Freshmen Advisory Board that tailors programs to the needs and interests of the freshmen class.

"It's all about making their freshmen year the best experience," he said.

In addition to the increase of minority students, members of the Class of 2012 come from 48 different countries and a little over 15 percent are from out of state, according to the release.

"It's amazing that we have such a diverse class," Shivers said. "But we are going to do what we always have always done - welcome all students."