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Leadership and Community-Building for Students of Color

Do you identify as African-, Latinx, Asian/Desi-, Native/Indigenous-American (ALANA), Pacific Islander, or multiracial? Would you like the opportunity to be part of a community while you enhance your leadership skills? Do you want to become a change agent? If so, consider attending Connections@Clark, a five-day, social justice and leadership-themed program designed specifically for students of color but open to all incoming first year and transfer students.

Previous leadership experience is not required to participate. We define leadership as wanting to have a positive impact on whatever community you are part of, and we want to help you make those dreams a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Through Connections, you can:

  • Receive guidance from a team of peer mentors who are involved in a wide array of student organizations at Clark.
  • Make friends and get to know a group of diverse students before the semester begins.
  • Participate in workshops on social justice, identity, and how to be a change agent.
  • Learn about Clark’s resources and participate in interactive workshops that will help you discover — or solidify — your passions.
  • Bond with your peers through fun social activities like laser tag or bowling.

Throughout the school year, the Office of Identity, Student Engagement, and Access (ISEA) provides additional opportunities for you to continue building your leadership skills. Attend social events and participate in field trips and Student Success Workshops on topics like internships and resume writing.

To participate, you need to attend small-group meetings monthly during the academic year and check in with the office staff periodically.

U.S. citizens, DACA recipients, permanent residents, non-resident aliens, international students, and undocumented students are encouraged to apply.

International students and/or non-resident aliens may participant in Connections, or the International Student Welcome sponsored by the Office of Global Engagement.

If you are unsure which program — Connections or International Student Welcome — is right for you, contact the Office of Global Engagement.

Sample Schedule

  • 9 a.m. — What is Leadership? Developing Your Leadership Mission
  • 10 a.m. — Team-building on the Green
  • Noon — Lunch
  • 1 p.m. — Complexity of Me: Understanding Multiple Identities, Power, and Privilege
  • 2:30 p.m. — Student of Color Affinity Group Discussions w/ACE
  • 4 p.m. — Break
  • 4:15 p.m. — Campus Scavenger Hunt
  • 5 p.m. — Dinner
  • 6 p.m. — Check-in/small group meetings with mentors
  • 7 p.m. — Game Night

Have More Questions?

Contact the Office of Identity, Student Engagement, and Access (ISEA).

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Identity, Student Engagement, and Access

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