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Living & Learning
Legacy Communities

On This Page
Nuance: Multicultural
Asian/Asian American
Harambee: African Heritage
Kanonhsesne: Native American
International Program
2 in 20 Program
Wellness Program

Legacy Communities make it possible for students to live with others who share their interests, ethnicity, identity, or worldview. All of these programs create a supportive living and learning environment that encourages personal growth and academic achievement. These are especially good choices for transfer students and upper-division students who are looking for their niche on campus. For more information and a full description of Legacy Communities, call 413-545-0472.

Nuance: Multicultural Student Program

Nuance Logo

Location:
Central Area: Gorman Hall
Entire building of 300 students

The Nuance program emphasizes a socially just living and learning community based on mutual respect regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sex, age, class, sexual orientation, religious preference, ability/disability and/or international status. This community is committed to providing an inclusive environment where students may succeed academically, while exploring and celebrating their diverse multiple identities. Students also have the opportunity to take a 2-credit class called Toltec: EDUC 393B, Experiencing Social Justice In Community

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Asian/Asian American Student Program

Location:
Northeast Area: Dwight Hall
One floor of 40 students

This program is designed for Asian and Asian American students and for others interested in Eastern cultures. The program seeks to create a supportive living/learning environment that encourages personal growth and academic achievement.

Community members can draw on the resources of two campus agencies in the Northeast area. The United Asia Cultural Center, a home away from home for students of Asian heritage, hosts social and cultural activities. The United Asia Learning Center offers tutoring, academic advising, and personal counseling.

Harambee: African Heritage Student Program

Location:
Southwest Area: Coolidge Hall
One floor of 30 students

Through the celebration and study of African history and culture, the Harambee Program aims to foster the educational success of students of African descent. By emphasizing the African roots of its residents, Harambee, a Swahili word that means "the point at which all things come together", develops a strong community spirit.

Additional support for Harambee students is available from the Committee for the Collegiate Education of Black and Other Minority Students (CCEBMS) and the Afro-American Studies Department.

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Kanonhsesne: Native American Student Program

Location:
Central Area: Chadbourne Hall
One floor of 40 students

Kanonhsesne is a residential community for Native American students and other interested in native cultures. Many nations are represented, and residents have the opportunity to affirm their own identities and learn about the customs and traditions of other tribes. Kanonhsesne is Iroquois for Long House.

The program works closely with the Josephine White Eagle Cultural Center, also located in Chadbourne Hall, to sponsor educational support services and social events. Residents take part in an annual powwow, prepare communal dinners, and plan field trips to study local Native American history and culture.

International Program


Location:
Northeast Area: Lewis Hall
Two to three floors of 30 to 40 students each

International and U.S. students have the opportunity to become better acquainted across diverse cultures as part this program. Open 9 months, from September through May, students with an interest in international living, whether or not they have ever lived abroad, are encouraged to join the community. Rent is slightly higher for this 9-month option (see Rates & Fees).

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2 in 20 Program

Location:
Northeast Area
One floor of 40 students

The 2 in 20 Program is a supportive residential community for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students and their allies. Residents are committed to working together to end homophobia and heterosexism.

Through its annual open house, the 2 in 20 Showcase, the program welcomes the entire University to learn about the LGBT and Ally community. Residents actively participate in organizing program activities such as potluck dinners, movie nights, coffeehouses, and educational workshops.

Wellness Program

Locations:
Central Area: Greenough Hall
Two floors of 70 students each

Central Area: Gorman Hall
One floor

Orchard Hill Area: Field Hall
One floor of 26 students

Southwest Area: MacKimmie Hall
One floor of 36 students

Students committed to a lifestyle free of alcohol and drugs can choose to live in a wellness community. Residents must agree not to use or possess alcohol or any other mood-altering substances. Some students choose this option because they are committed to a holistic lifestyle. Other choose a wellness program due to a family history of chemical dependency or because they are in recovery.

Alcohol-free parties, vegan dinners, hiking trips, and music nights are part of the program's social events. Educational activities focus on topics related to sobriety and a variety of health and wellness concerns. Support services are provided by University Health Services and Mental Health.

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Last updated May 8, 2008
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