ALANA Students Leadership Retreat

“Voice. Power. Change. (Re)Defining our Leadership”

What is it?
The ALANA Students Leadership Retreat is designed for student leaders who identify as a member of one or more of the following groups: African/Black-heritage, Arab/Middle Eastern heritage, Asian/South Asian heritage, Latino-heritage, Native-heritage and/or mixed-race.  The ALANA Students Leadership Retreat is an overnight retreat designed to fortify participants in leadership roles here on campus and beyond, to focus on shared experiences and to critically examine various issues and isms that relate to living in a multicultural and diverse community. These goals are accomplished through community building and personal reflection exercises that help students identify as social change agents.  Once back on campus students are galvanized by the enhanced connections made during the weekend and are able to continue in their work with a strong supportive community behind them.  The retreat is intended for students who currently hold leadership positions as well as those interested in further involvement on campus.  This is the first time that event is being held and we hope this is an opportunity to identify personal and organizational allies, make meaningful connections, gain insight into one’s self, and celebrate our similarities and those things that make us unique.

The retreat is sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Inclusive Initiative Fund.

Where does the retreat take place?
This year’s retreat will take place at The United Church of Christ Conference Center in Framingham MA about 1.5 hours from campus.

Who should apply?
The ALANA Students Leadership Retreat is a joint venture between the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Inclusive Initiatives Fund and is open to all students who identify with one or more of the following culture groups: African/Black-heritage, Arab/Middle Eastern heritage, Asian/South Asian heritage, Latino-heritage, Native-heritage and/or mixed-race.  First and second year students are strongly encouraged to apply.

ALANA Students Leadership Retreat Applications (pdf.) are due Wednesday, February 13, 2008 by 5 pm in the Dean of Students Office Mary Lyon Room 300.

Selection Timeline

• February 13^th
  Application submission deadline. Applications should be submitted to towillia@mtholyoke.edu or dropped off in 300 Mary Lyon Hall by 5 p.m.
• February 15th
  Applicants are notified of their application status
• February 18th
  Deadline for accepted students to submit their intent to attend
• February 20^th
  Informational Meeting Held for students selected to attend the retreat – 5 p.m., Location: TBA