Winsome Chunnu-Brayda, strategic director for Diversity and Inclusion and Multicultural Programs and Initiatives at Ohio University, presented to Student Senate at Wednesday’s general body meeting regarding the Multicultural Center’s role on campus.
Chunnu-Brayda said the center, located on the second floor of Baker University Center, helps provide social, recreational and educational programming for students and members of the university. That includes training and outreach across campus and the Athens community, as well as advocating and raising awareness for multicultural organizations and events.
“These spaces are there for students who occupy these identities, but they are also there for all Bobcats,” she said.
The center offers diversity training which can be requested by students or organizations through the Diversity and Inclusion webpage or by reaching out directly to Chunnu-Brayda at chunnu@ohio.edu. Outreach training and workshops are regularly done with community organizations such as the Athens Foundation, Southeast Ohio Legal Association and Federal Hocking Middle School.
After her presentation, Senate approved a resolution to award Chunnu-Brayda with the Bobcat Medal, recognizing her for her work at the university.
“Dr. Chunnu has been an influential mentor and supporter for many students at Ohio University. She makes every student she meets feel comfortable and supported and the positive impact she has on so many students is exponential,” Vice President Elaina Tartal read from the nomination.
After proposed amendments to the Senate constitution were accidentally left off of last week’s ballot, Senate passed a resolution this week which allows amendments to be made without a university-wide ballot vote. This will allow changes to be made at any point during the year at the discretion of the body.
Women’s Affairs Commissioner Megan Handle advertised the upcoming Take Back the Night event, which begins at the First United Methodist Church at 6 p.m. on Thursday. A resource fair will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by speakers from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. A march will leave from the church at 8 p.m. and it will be followed by a meditative reflection.
On Wednesday, April 13 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, April 15 from 12 p.m. to 1p.m., Senate plans to hold informational sessions in the Senate office about a proposed university fire fee. The fee would add an annual $50 to be paid by students which would go towards resources for the fire department’s services, as well as expansion of fire safety education. The body plans to gather student input and reception prior to introducing legislation next fall.
