The Cross-Cultural Center (CCC) promotes the belonging and mattering of all students through storytelling and authentic interactions by exploring the community’s heritage and culture, thereby supporting and complementing the University’s commitment to developing global citizens.
The Cross-Cultural Center, through the Division for Student Success, supports, advises, and advocates for the needs of all students at Assumption, particularly our most vulnerable student populations.
The Cross-Cultural Center serves as a resource for international students in partnership with International Student Success, as they transition to college in the United States and American culture, promoting a sense of belonging through the sharing of cultures beyond those found in the US. and engagement in heritage and cultural awareness throughout their college experience.
The Cross-Cultural Center advises and supports Assumption’s culture and heritage clubs and student organizations, as well as cross-cultural programming and education, through various outreach and social awareness programs. These programs include lectures, workshops, retreats, and performances that explore our community’s shared and unique experiences.
Celebrating our past, inspiring the future!
Opportunities to Grow and Thrive
ALANA
All students are encouraged to expand their worldviews by engaging with activities and groups that provide insights into diverse races, ethnicities, and religions. Our student-run ALANA (African, Latino/Hispanic, Asian, and Native American) Network fosters inclusivity and diversity awareness through weekly meetings. Together with other student organizations, we organize multicultural events, panel discussions, lectures, performances, and more. We also present the ALANA Diversity Award to a faculty member who promotes diversity sensitivity and cultural perspectives in teaching.
Our diverse events include the Latino Heritage Dinner, Multicultural Day showcasing various cultural foods, Native American Speaker Event during Native American History Month, Black History Month programs, Lunar New Year celebrations, Women’s History Month events, the Step and Dance competition, and the End of Year ALANA Banquet to honor our student leaders and community builders.
International Connection Student Group
The Cross-Cultural Center also advises the International Connection student group, which allows international students to communicate with and support each other as they take their educational journey together at Assumption. This group also works collaboratively with the ALANA Network to promote diversity on campus through participation in their annual events. The goal of the International Connection is to promote and enhance international awareness, cooperation, cultural diversity, and dialogue among international students and the rest of the Assumption University and local communities.
First-Generation Students
Assumption University helps first-generation students thrive. A talented faculty, led by a first-year Dean, work with students from New Student Orientation through Commencement to create your academic success story. A dedicated financial advisor will ensure that you find the resources you need to complete your degree at Assumption. Our Career Development and Internship Center will guide you toward a fulfilling career after graduation. A robust alumni network, and the many close friends you make here will ensure that you remain a member of our close-knit community throughout your life.
We invite you to learn more about the special contribution you can make to our community, and the commitment that we have made to students who may be the first members of their family to attend university. We want you to find your home here on campus, and we look forward to sharing the Assumption University experience with you.
Traditional Student Engagement & Programming
- Pack to the Future: curated Alumni networking and engagement opportunities.
- First in the Pack: on-going enrichment programs designed for first-generation college students to ease students’ transition to college and foster social-emotional development.
- Connections: Overnight: Admitted students are invited to engage with the campus in a new way! With upper-class mentors as your guide, participants get a real-life taste of Life at Assumption. This is an opportunity for newly admitted students to ask questions, build relationships, and make lasting memories.
- Connections: Pre-Orientation
The Connections: pre-Orientation is a positive and engaging learning environment where participants feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their experiences. Connections: Pre-Orientation can serve as a springboard for persistence by empowering personal growth and equipping participants with the confidence to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their goals.
Key Program Elements
Academic Support and Resources
Strategies for effective time management and study skills, and tutoring services.
Learning about disability services (if applicable).
Financial Literacy and Budgeting
Budgeting on a college student budget.
Understanding student loans and financial aid options.
Strategies for finding affordable housing, textbooks, and course materials.
Scholarship and grant opportunities (including local resources).
Navigating Campus Life
The campus tour will highlight key locations like libraries, computer labs, financial aid offices, health centers, and student support services.
Understanding campus dining options and meal plans for budget-conscious students.
Introduction to campus resources for mental health and wellness support.
Social Integration and Support
Icebreakers and team-building activities to foster connections with peers.
Workshops on navigating campus culture and unwritten social norms.
Roundtable discussions with current first-generation students and alumni
Student-led Programs (a sampling)
LatinX Fest
Sneakerball (formal event)
BHM Ecumenical Worship Service
Latin Dance Night in Pierre’s Lounge & Pub
Skate Night in Laska Gym
Who’s on AUX!
National First-Generation College Student Day (November 8)