Center’s programming creates welcoming atmosphere
For the last four years, The University of Iowa’s Center for Diversity & Enrichment (CDE) has provided programs that strive to create a welcoming climate for students from communities traditionally underrepresented in higher education, including minority, first-generation, and low-income students. Many initiatives are built around helping students develop a sense of community on campus, says Nancy Humbles, CDE director.
“We have fine-tuned our programming to focus on social connections, which allow our students to get a sense of belonging to the University community,” Humbles says. “This eventually leads to student retention.”
But these efforts aren’t just targeted at current Hawkeyes. The CDE works with other UI departments, communities, and schools for pre-college student development.
For example, the CDE maintains a list of programs for middle and high school students on its web site, http://cde.uiowa.edu. These programs range from writers’ studios to science programs, and offer students the opportunity to get a feel for the college experience while participating in fun and unique educational programs.
Prospective Iowa students may be especially interested in the University’s scholarship program, the Advantage Iowa Award. This merit-based scholarship is for first-year students whose enrollment will contribute to a diverse learning environment. Eligibility criteria may include race/ethnic background, socioeconomic factors, whether the student is a first-generation college student (parents have not graduated from college), and participation in a federally funded TRIO Upward Bound program. Awards range from $2,000 to full tuition, and may be renewed for up to eight semesters. More details about Advantage Iowa