Programs & Resources

The Bridge Program (est. 1970)

Established as a pioneering initiative for African American students entering Smith College, the Bridge Pre-orientation Program welcomes first-year students who are descendants of previously marginalized communities. Participants find Bridge vital for establishing meaningful social connections and cross-cultural friendships. The Bridge program received a Presidential Innovation Challenge Grant in 2020.

Emergency Fund Managed by the Office of Multicultural Affairs (EFOMA) (est. 2001)

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) manages the emergency fund. Centering on the emergency needs of students, the fund was started by Black members of the Class of 1974 in 2001 and is an endowed fund. Areas of support include medical/dental care, eyeglasses, medications, and travel for urgent family matters.

Thriving in the Valley Resource Guide (est. 2012)

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) created the Thriving in the Valley Resource Guide to encourage Smith students to fully engage with the Five College community. The guide provides information about the area's cultural events, resources, and services, for students to feel more connected and supported during their time at Smith. Thriving in the Valley (PDF)

MwangiTalks E-Newsletter (est. 2018)

MwangiTalks is the Office of Multicultural Affairs’ weekly newsletter curated by the Mwangi Cultural Center student coordinators. Published weekly, it highlights upcoming events hosted by Unity organizations, OMA, and resources and programs at Smith College that particularly interests students. It also features student spotlights and community announcements, serving as a platform for students to stay informed and connected.

Community of Color Student Mixer (est. 2015)

The Smith College Community of Color Mixer is a festive event to start the fall semester. This event welcomes connections within the diverse student community.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture Series (est. 2020)

This program commemorates the anniversary of Dr. King's assassination and is made possible by the Mwangi Fund, which was established by the Smith College Class of 1987 as an endowed fund. The lecture happens on or around April 4th to promote awareness and appreciation of racial and ethnic diversity.

Multicultural Experience (ME!) Program (est. 2018)

The Multicultural Experience (ME!) program provides weekly student community engagement through holistic programming. The program's core components are Engagement with the community, Enrichment through cultural experiences, Exploration of wellness, and Education through advising and mentoring. These components work together to ensure that students receive comprehensive support for their personal and academic growth. In 2020, the ME! program received a Presidential Innovation Challenge Grant.

MwangiReads (est. 2020)

MwangiReads is a program designed to engage students in Multicultural and Ethnic Studies literature in fun, accessible ways. Students can expect ongoing promotion of newly added material to the Mwangi Cultural Center library and a variety of monthly programming, such as a Spanish Language Night, a Queer Graphic Novels Workshop, and an Edible Book Party. In 2019, MwangiReads received a Presidential Innovation Challenge Grant.

Multicultural Family Brunch (est. 2013)

The Multicultural Family Brunch is a celebratory event that recognizes graduating seniors. Seniors and their families enjoy brunch in a shared space with Smith faculty, staff, and alumnae before commencement. This event is a testament to the value and appreciation that Smith College has for its students, making them feel an integral part of the Community.

Mwangi Student Coordinators (est. 2018)

The student coordinator position offers Smith students a role in the successful operation of the Mwangi Cultural Center, which the Office of Multicultural Affairs manages. Student coordinators support the Assistant Director of Multicultural Affairs and help oversee the Center's activities, programs, and management.

Smith College Unity Award (est. 1994)

Presented by the Office of Multicultural Affairs on Ivy Day, the Unity Award recognizes a student who has contributed to promoting diversity and multiculturalism within the Smith College Community.