Dr. J's Message for the week of January 29, 2012
We're almost halfway through winter, and despite how mild it's been, we could all use some stimulating events to counter the clouds and cold. One of the best things about our Ohio State community is that there is no shortage of interesting and rewarding things to do.
I hope you'll take part in some of the many opportunities to beat the winter blues here at Ohio State this week, from fitness classes through Recreational Sports to learning the art of relaxation with Qigong with Counseling and Consultation Service. It may not bring warm weather here any sooner, but it will make the wait easier.
Yet another opportunity to get involved comes in February with Black History Month, which we celebrate as United Black World Month here at Ohio State. It's a month packed with events (opens a pdf) for community building, educational enlightenment, and historical celebration. You can find theatre presentations, discussions, lectures, and even an art and multi-media contest. This year's theme is Black Women in History and Culture.
United Black World Month is supported by the Office of Student Life's Multicultural Center. If you haven't been to their space on the first floor of the Ohio Union, you should stop by. In addition to meeting some amazing people and seeing some fantastic art, you can write a message on their special glass wall, part of the "What's Your Story?" program.
The Multicultural Center sponsors a number of "weeks" and "months" throughout the year to celebrate the various cultures and backgrounds that come together to become our own vibrant Ohio State University community. For example, March is Women's History Month. Each celebration offers a variety of programs to educate, enlighten, and entertain.
These celebrations are for everyone in our community. It disappoints me when I talk with someone who is under the mistaken impression that programs during any of these events are solely for people of that heritage. I realize that some of my most rewarding life experiences have come as I have learned not only about myself, but about others as well.
One of the elements that helps create the extraordinary student experience here at Ohio State is our interaction with people of greatly different backgrounds and experiences. We have an opportunity to work, study, and know people very different from ourselves, and I encourage you to take - or make - every opportunity to expand your cultural horizons.
And on a personal note, I hope you'll join me on Wednesday, February 1 in the Performance Hall of the Ohio Union at 6 p.m. for the Five Stars opening reception of United Black World Month. The event is free to everyone with no ticket required, and will feature women trailblazers in the Columbus African-American community. It should be an exceptionally inspiring evening.
Have a wonderful and productive week!
Dr. J
Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life
vicepresident@studentlife.osu.edu
Contact:
Dave Isaacs
614-292-8424
isaacs.84@osu.edu