LGCIE

Leading the Way

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 18:34:02 +0000

Leading the Way HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 02/12/2024 - 13:34

Alumnus serves as example for other first-gen students

February 22, 2024

Heather Harris Michonski

There is a sense of pride that sometimes comes with being a first-generation student, but it can also create a certain amount of pressure.

51�Թ�� alumnus Destiny Ihenacho, ’16, was the first in his family to go to college and he shares his experience to inspire others following a similar path.

“I know what fears I faced and hearing from someone who had gone through the same thing always calmed me,” he said. “It let me know that if they can, I can.”

Born in Brighton, Ihenacho’s family moved to Framingham before settling in Brockton.

When his high school career was ending, he considered applying to a different school to study public policy but wasn’t completely sure if that was the right path.

Instead, he decided to get his feet wet, and signed up for one course at BSU, Intro to American Politics.

While he enjoyed the class, more importantly it introduced him to the Center for Multi-Cultural Affairs, better known today as the Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equity.

“I became attached to the center…I really enjoyed the conversations that would happen there,” Ihenacho said. “Eventually I decided to fill out an application and the rest is history.”

While at BSU, he majored in international relations and affairs and joined the African Student Association and Model United Nation, as well as Men Integrated Brotherhood. He also participated in a service trip to Belize for one week to work at an elementary school.

“These clubs and experiences emboldened my networking skills. It made sure I could walk up to anyone in any room and introduce myself,” Ihenacho said. “It also showed me that the world is more diverse than the world sometimes seems.”

Today, he’s taken his skill set to Washington, DC, where he works as a research director for the Committee for Public Safety & Homeland Security.

His responsibilities include researching transportation, law enforcement, immigration, and firearms. He then takes what he learns and advises the chairperson of the committee on what bills should be advanced and which need more attention.

“I do enjoy influencing (aspects) of our commonwealth’s public safety bill,” he said, which recently involved redrafting a bill related to barriers for people with disabilities.

Often when he’s making these decisions, or any career decision, he reflects on the words BSU Professor Shaheen Mozzafar, who once said, What you learn today will manifest, not today but in years to come.

“Well, he was 100 percent correct,” Ihenacho said. “The ability to have real-life experiences at BSU meant a lot to me. The opportunity is there. BSU teaches you how to get there, you just have to show up.”

Eventually, Ihenacho would like to run for an elected office, as the desire to build a stronger community is what fuels him.

“I would love to put my name in a race, it would be a small reminder to young brown and black youths that, sometimes you need to take a chance and see what you can accomplish,” he said.

And for those representing their families, who are the first to go to college, he hopes to continue setting a positive example.

“Being a (successful) first-generation student, enables me to open doors for current students, and more students to come, within my community and my family,” Ihenacho said.

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

The ability to have real-life experiences at BSU meant a lot to me. The opportunity is there. BSU teaches you how to get there, you just have to show up.

Destiny Ihenacho, '16

Tags

Alumni Profile

LGCIE

First Gen

Commemorating Black History Month

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 12:56:36 +0000

Commemorating Black History Month HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Wed, 02/01/2023 - 07:56

February offers opportunities to learn and celebrate African American culture and contributions

February 2, 2023

Heather Harris Michonski

Black History Month offers the opportunity to better educate people about the contributions to society African Americans have made and continue to make.

This year’s theme for the annual month-long celebration is, “Black Excellence: A Journey to Equality.” 51�Թ�� is hosting multiple activities throughout February inspired by this theme.

“Black excellence, for me, is looking at the greatness, of all the accomplishments and contributions that African Americans have made to the world, which is not usually talked about. Especially in K-12 schools, where all you hear about regarding Black history is from the slave ships to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez, director for intercultural student success.

Pitterson-Ogaldez added, because of the lack of education, stereotypes have been formed.

“There is injustice, exclusion, and oppression that has happened to African Americans, that they don’t have ambition; they don’t work hard. They are often used as entertainers, whether that’s in sports, music or TV, yet don’t receive rewards in an equitable way,” she said.

It’s through education that the narrative can change.

“Bridgewater State is highly focused on racial equity and justice, and educating the campus community and beyond,” Pitterson-Ogaldez said. “One way we can do this, is by not focusing only on the inequalities but also on the excellent contributions and achievements of black people.’”

Pitterson-Olgadez formed a committee made up of members from across campus and BSU affiliated groups that organized different events to be held during Black History Month to educate and inspire the BSU community.

Cultural Cuisines

From Feb. 1-28, Sodexo will be serving cultural cuisines in all BSU dining facilities.

Masterclasses with Mekbul J. Tahir

On Thursday, Feb. 9, and Thursday, Feb. 23, campus community members are invited to attend a masterclass with international choreographer, dancer, and teacher Mekbul J. Tahir from 3-5p.m. in Burnell Room 138A.

Nubian Square Walking Tour

Hosted by the Bridgewater State Program Council, on Saturday, Feb. 11, an off-campus Nubian Square Walking Tour will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Roxbury. To register, click here.

Black History Month Banquet

The annual BSU Black History Month banquet will be held on Thursday, Feb. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the RSU Large Ballroom. BSU Director for Intercultural Student Success Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez is the keynote speaker and will discuss “Black Excellence.”

African American Studies Five-Year Anniversary Celebration

On Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Maxwell Library Heritage Room, the BSU African American Studies program will celebrate its fifth anniversary. Register here.

Afro Am Alumni Association Virtual Mixer

A virtual mixer is planned for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 27. Contact mialhazlett@gmail.com

MRISJ Civic Speaker Series

On Tuesday, Feb. 28, an online discussion, “Repairing Historical Harms: A Conversation on Reparations,” is planned. To register click here.

Black Film Series

Wednesday, Feb 22: Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror, 1:50 p.m. in Burnell Room 138A

Thursday, Feb. 23: Pelo Malo, 2 p.m. in Boyden 223

Tuesday, Feb. 28: Just Mercy 2 to 4:30 p.m. LGCIE RSU Room 101

“It’s important that people take the initiative to first educate themselves, you can do this through reading, watching documentaries, through building relationships – positive, loving relationships with members of the African American community,” Pitterson-Ogaldez said.

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Bridgewater State is highly focused on racial equity and justice, and educating the campus community and beyond. One way we can do this, is by not focusing only on the inequalities but also on the excellent contributions and achievements of black people.

Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez, director for intercultural student success

Tags

LGCIE

'Right Direction'

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 19:36:06 +0000

'Right Direction' HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 01/02/2023 - 14:36

Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez named director of LGCIE

January 3, 2023

Heather Harris Michonski

The Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equity (LGCIE) recently appointed a new director, Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez, to continue building on the center’s work.

When looking to make a career move, Pitterson-Ogaldez knew she wanted to work for an institution committed to advancing diversity, equity, and belonging. That’s when she discovered 51�Թ��.

“The different initiatives, the task force...it was obvious that Bridgewater is moving in the right direction,” she said.

Impressed by what she found, Pitterson-Ogaldez applied for the LGCIE director position.

Vice President of Student Success and Diversity Sabrina Gentlewarrior said that throughout the interview process Pitterson-Ogaldez was impressive.

“Sharon’s experience and commitment to support the success of every student, one student at a time, and her excitement to join BSU in our racial equity and justice work, made her the ideal selection at this time of our institutional work,” Gentlewarrior said.

Prior to BSU, Pitterson-Ogaldez worked at Penn State University as the coordinator of Diversity and International Programs for Diversity and, responsible for multicultural international LGBTQIA+ students, “advocating on their behalf and supporting them,” she said.

From assisting with visa applications and academics, to housing, signing up for food service and helping with the overall transition to college, Pitterson-Ogaldez’s goal was to always ensure each student she encountered was able to discover their own path to success.

“I hope to help them develop their passion, to embrace their sense of agency, and help them realize they belong here, to help them find their way,” she said.

Since taking on director duties in October, Pitterson-Ogaldez is happy to see students come to LGCIE and take advantage of all the center offers.

“It’s a great resource for our students to be able to come into a center that understands who they are, their backgrounds and the challenges they face,” she said.

Pitterson-Ogaldez looks forward to getting to know the students better and learning more about the BSU culture, most importantly she wants to make sure LGCIE serves as resource to help elevate student voices.

“I want to help students realize that they do not have to walk in the stereotype that society has put on them, but to walk in their authenticity and know they belong here and deserve to take space here and be involved and be developed to become the awesome leaders of the future.”

Gentlewarrior is confident Pitterson-Ogaldez will achieve this and looks forward to watching it unfold.

“Sharon picked BSU because of our commitment and believes we are a campus firmly committed to institutional transformation. I’m certain BSU will find Sharon a joyful leader and partner in this essential work,” she said.

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I want to help students realize that they do not have to walk in the stereotype that society has put on them, but to walk in their authenticity and know they belong here and deserve to take space here and be involved and be developed to become the awesome leaders of the future.

Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez, director of LGCIE

Tags

LGCIE

BSU Celebrates Black History Month

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:17:23 +0000

BSU Celebrates Black History Month HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Tue, 02/01/2022 - 08:17

University, student organizations hold series of events throughout February

February 1, 2022

Heather Harris Michonski

This week marks the start of Black History Month, a time to not only celebrate Black history but also reflect on America’s continued struggle for racial justice.

51�Թ�� is hosting multiple activities throughout February that are open to the entire campus.

“I hope people come to these events with an open mind and an open heart; to listen, learn and try to find ways to get further involved,” said Michael Walsh, interim director of the Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equality.

When brainstorming which events to host, Walsh said, they considered this year’s Black History Month national theme, “Black Health and Wellness.”

“The goal is for us to really bring attention to the need for people to take care of themselves and to do that, community is so important.,” he said.

Walsh encourages the BSU community to check out some of the Black History Month happenings, as they offer great ways to get better educated and show support.

“I think there is so much that divides us, and these events provide an opportunity to bring people together, to acknowledge things have not gone well in the past, but that we can make changes in the future. It provides hope,” he said.

Black Faculty, Staff and Alum Mixer

On Thursday, Feb. 3 all are welcome to attend a mixer with Black faculty, staff, alumni, and students. The event takes place in the Rondileau Student Union (RSU) ballroom from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served, and dress is casual.

“The mixer is a great opportunity to create new relationships and friendships, and support for all the different entities coming together,” Walsh said.

Black Mental Health Panel

A Black Mental Health Panel is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 8, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the RSU ballroom. The emphasis for this event will be on Black men and the stigma they often face when addressing their mental health needs.

“Men in general are very reluctant to take stock of their health,” Walsh said. “The idea is to lessen any negative stigma that might be placed on working with a therapist or a counselor, that it should be something you feel comfortable doing.”

Healing Day

On Wednesday, Feb. 16, also in the RSU Ballroom, from 12 to 1:30 p.m., a day of healing will be held. Light refreshments will be served.

“This is an opportunity to reflect on various things that have happened in the Black community that have been tragic and reflect on how things can be better for the future. It’s a way for folks to come together, to share success strategies, and work together to help one another,” Walsh said.

Haus of Snap Hip Hop Program

In collaboration with the BSU Pride Center, a Haus of Snap show will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22, in the Horace Mann Auditorium. Students will learn about the group and its choreography, then have the opportunity to show off their own dance moves at the end.

Black History Month Banquet

The annual BSU Black History Month banquet will be held on Thursday, Feb. 24, in the RSU Ballroom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Coaching4Change founder Marquis Taylor is the guest speaker. Taylor will share his story and how experiencing failure shaped him and led him to helping others understand, “That where you start is not where you have to end up.”

Also planned are student-sponsored events:

Tuesday Feb. 15: Black Greek Kahoot, 6 to 8 p.m., Moakley Auditorium

Wednesday, Feb. 16: Get Movied Film Series: The 13^th, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Burnell 132A; “Black History Bingo”, 5-7:30p.m., RSU Ballroom.

Thursday, Feb. 17: Meet the Greeks, 6 to 9:30 p.m., RSU Ballroom.

Saturday, Feb. 26: Rep Yo Flag with DJ Izzo, 8 to 11 p.m., RSU Ballroom.

“I think we’re going to learn a lot, but hope we have a lot of fun in the process,” Walsh added.

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I think there is so much that divides us, and these events provide an opportunity to bring people together, to acknowledge things have not gone well in the past, but that we can make changes in the future. It provides hope.

Michael Walsh, interim director of the Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equality

Tags

LGCIE

Mental Health Matters

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 14:28:35 +0000

Mental Health Matters HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Wed, 01/19/2022 - 09:28

Campus community offers assistance in-person and online for students

January 20, 2022

Heather Harris Michonski

As students return to campus this semester and the world continues to navigate the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, many may be experiencing anxiety.

For those struggling, it’s important to know supports are in place at 51�Թ�� to help manage these feelings.

A great starting point is the BSU Wellness Center.

“We all need supportive and caring people to help us navigate the stresses and worries of life, people who can help us get through the ups and downs that we all experience,” said Donna Schiavo, clinical director of the Wellness Center.

Confidential counseling services are offered free, in both individual and group settings. For those not comfortable talking with a counselor, there are online tools and services.

Togetherall is a virtual, peer-to-peer, anonymous support community where students can share their concerns. The online community is moderated by mental health professionals and offers students a safe place to draw strength and gain insights from peers.

Also available is WellTrack, another free online resource that helps students better understand feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, and suggests ways to manage these feelings. To register for an account, students can download the WellTrack app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and register using their @student.bridgew.edu email address.

Beyond the Wellness Center, it’s important for students to know that community members across campus are invested in their mental health.

“Being a support system is our biggest draw for students to come in and vent, and ask for resources,” said Diana Mendes, interim assistant director of the Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equity (LGCIE), located in the Rondileau Student Union.

For some students, there isn’t a safe space at home where they can express themselves, therefore they tend to suppress their emotions.

“When a student is experiencing so many different types of feelings and not being validated at home, that student often suffers in silence,” said LGCIE Interim Director Michael Walsh, adding that many students of color, particularly males, tend to suppress uncomfortable feelings.

Walsh said part of his job is to let students know they do have a place to turn to and that help is always available.

“The LGCIE is a safe place, where students can keep an eye on each other, have conversations and connect with others,” he said. “By having thoughtful, real, careful conversations, we’re able to understand what some of our students are dealing with in terms of their mental health.”

A Quiet Lounge is set up at the BSU Pride Center where students can sit, relax, read, or work on homework. Coloring books, crayons, markers, puzzles, and paper are also offered in the lounge to help students unwind.

“You can always drop into the Pride Center between classes if you’re looking for a place to hang out, meet and be around other LGBTQIA+ people, find out more about different programs, events and social opportunities,” said Pride Center Director Carolyn Taggart. “I’m happy to meet with students one-on-one to assist them in finding resources.”

The Military and Veteran Student Center hosts ongoing events that focus on peer support, including one scheduled for May 4 where students can come together and de-stress during finals week.

This spring the center is also launching a Green to Grad program intended to bolster support for students transitioning from servicemember to student.

“Our goal as educators is to prepare students for life after college, and one of the things we should be fostering is the belief that it’s okay to be vulnerable,” said Brian Duchaney, director of military and veteran student services. “It’s important for us to be building opportunities for students to come together and share their experiences.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Our goal as educators is to prepare students for life after college, and one of the things we should be fostering is the belief that it’s okay to be vulnerable.

Brian Duchaney, '02, G'07, director of Military and Veteran Student Services

Tags

Mental Health

Wellness Center

Pride Center

LGCIE

Veterans Center