MSU hosts first DEI New Student Orientation

August 27, 2023 - Sofia Mireles-Gonzalez

Every new Spartan participates in student orientation programs before their first semester at Michigan State. This year, students had the chance to learn early on from organizations that connect students with similar backgrounds and cultural experiences. 

For the first time on Aug. 25, MSU held a diversity, equity and inclusion new student orientation at the Breslin Center. The Office of Undergraduate Education coordinated the event and invited over 10K incoming students to learn more about MSU’s DEI resources and efforts.

The orientation program was created to align with DEI Report and Plan recommendations and provide a platform to introduce incoming students to diverse student organization leaders, and related historical achievements, resources and opportunities on campus.

Color Me Music band performingColor Me Music band members performing at the Breslin Center. Photo by Blake Matthews

Students sway to the musicIncoming students join in the student engagement and sway to the music together. Photo by Blake Matthews

The program started with an energizing performance of Lauryn Hill and Mary J Blige, covers by Color Me Music, a College of Music student of color group, setting the tone for the event.

Senior and former president of the Council of Racial Ethnic Students, or CORES, and Council of Progressive Students, or COPS, Michale Coffey, served as the program coordinator and emcee.

“I was excited for the opportunity to bring together a historic-first and vibrant program to highlight CORES and COPS organizations, especially those with less visibility,” said Coffey. “The program was a testament to MSU’s diversity presented in a way to encourage engagement and belonging.”

Participating student organizations included:

  • Alliance of Queer and Ally Students
  • Asian Pacific American Student Organization, Black Students’ Alliance
  • Council of Students with Disabilities
  • Culturas de las Razas Unidas
  • International Students Association
  • Jewish Student Union, Muslim Students’ Association
  • Women*s Council

 CORES and COPS students pose for a group photoCORES and COPS student leaders at the new student orientation. Photo by Blake Matthews

In addition, the Pilipino American Student Society presented a traditional dance and Coffey got the crowd moving in their seats before welcoming Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D., to the stage to provide an introduction to the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion and DEI programs and initiatives on campus.

“The new student orientation showed MSU’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and offered a place where students feel included and represented when they first enter campus,” said Bennett.

PASS performers call out to the audience with a chantPilipino American Student Society dancers conclude their performance with a cheer. Photo by Blake Matthews

Following the DEI welcome, students also had the opportunity to engage in a University Health and Wellness panel facilitated by Alexis Travis on the importance of social, physical and mental health in college.

When transitioning from high school to a four-year university, many students might find it challenging to balance life outside of school or vice versa. Health professionals and community liaisons from across campus addressed these concerns and highlighted how students can access resources during their time at MSU.

By creating spaces where diversity, equity and inclusion is talked about, Michigan State University seeks to foster belonging and a place where all students can live, thrive and succeed.

Watch the recording of the event on YouTube.