Connections@Clark

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, leadership-themed program for incoming first-year and transfer students of color.

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.

Connections program runs Aug. 20-24, 2022

Priority application due May 26, 2022

After the priority deadline of May 26, 2022, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

How would Connections benefit me?

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.

Who is encouraged to apply?

U.S. citizens, DACA recipients, permanent residents, and undocumented students are encouraged to apply.

International students do not attend Connections; instead, they participate in the International Student Welcome, sponsored by the International Center. If you are unsure which program — Connections or International Student Welcome — is right for you, contact the International Center.

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