NEWSLETTER February 2021
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Updates from our
REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Hola Mi Gente, A new year is upon us, and if you are thinking a little bit like me, then perhaps you are just a little bit hopeful of what 2021 may bring us. To be honest, I am really excited about the Regional Leadership and Conference Planning Teams. While most of us face uncertainty in our profession, the foundational work for the 2021 Conference has already begun. I have all the faith in the world that we will provide the best conference that we can. On that note of hope, I encourage everyone to take time to breathe and to take a self assessment on your capacity. We are about to reach a full of the pandemic and we are constantly ingesting images that contradict everything that student unions are all about. It is okay to take time for yourself to make sure that you are safe and healthy. I would also ask that you all take time to reflect on Black History Month. ACUI has made a concerted effort to put diversity, equity, and inclusion at the forefront in programming and focus. We intend on following with our focus on strengthening our bonds and increasing our efforts for equity and inclusion in all our programming and volunteers roles. As I mentioned in my speech at the 2020 Regional Conference, we have a unique opportunity to reshape what this region looks like. All I ask is that you maintain an open mind and spirit as we embark on this journey together. Please enjoy this issue. I hope you read about folks in our region and the amazing work they do. Anthony Otero, Regional Director, from Rutgers University- New Brunswick.
BY ANY ESSENENTIAL MEANS
By Hayden M. Greene
“I was not considered 'essential' until the pandemic.” This is a quote from one of the subjects of my most recent photo project.
In the spring of 2020, the whole world, as we knew, was irrevocably changed. In a year that had already seen its fair share of tumultuous events and world-altering decisions, this nation began to contend with the deadliest disease most of us had seen in our lifetimes, COVID-19. The infectiousness of the virus was only matched by the confusion on how the cities were adapting to it, here and abroad. Before long, the nation followed the lead of other countries and enacted lockdowns in its major cities, in an attempt to stave off the spread of the scourge. All across the country, and in particular New York City which was deemed to be one of the epicenters of the pandemic, routine life ground to halt. Except for essential workers.
PICTURE OF MALCOM X, PEEKING OUT HIS WINDOW, DEFENDING HIS FAMILY WITH A RIFLE. THE PHRASE, “BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY” OFTEN ACCOMPANIES THE IMAGE. IT IS THIS IMAGERY THAT INSPIRED ME TO CREATE THE “BY ANY ESSENTIAL MEANS” PHOTO PROJECT. HAVING THE ESSENTIAL WORKERS RECREATE THAT PARTICULAR POSE
Before March 2020, when we thought of essential workers, generally our minds would go to the professions that we assumed made the city tick: hospital workers, law enforcement, fire department, and jobs of that ilk. As the quarantine progressed, it became quite evident that we all needed to broaden our scope of who was an essential worker. In addition to the aforementioned professionals, the subset of essentials now included grocery workers, food and package delivery personnel, and transportation employees. All at once, people across the metropolis were themselves discovering that they were essential workers and would have to brave the now very scary “outdoors”.
There is something else that the pandemic shined a spotlight upon: the vast majority of these newly defined essential workers were people of color, and a large percentage of them were undocumented immigrants. In a country where socio-economic class and race are intricately intertwined, many of these front-line workers were working class members of society with many falling below the poverty line. The stratification of our society was on full display as we realized that we were all in the same storm but we were definitely not all in the same boat.
This disparity between the professions meant that some New Yorkers were able to tough out the quarantine and keep themselves safe while many of the people who were providing them with the joy of creature comforts were literally risking their lives to ensure that the city did not devolve into recreation of bad post-apocalyptic films from the 70s. While some in Gotham were able to order food from the local restaurants and toilet paper from Amazon, overwhelmingly people of color were the ones putting their health in jeopardy to bring it to them. Full disclosure, I was one of those people who was privileged enough to sequester myself and my family at home and, as I started to realize the disparity through first hand interactions and news reports, I decided to try to show case it, while paying homage. Some of you may be familiar with iconic picture of Malcom X, peeking out his window, defending his family with a rifle. The phrase, “By Any Means Necessary” often accompanies the image. It is this imagery that inspired me to create the “By Any Essential Means” photo project. Having the essential workers recreate that particular pose signifies, for me, that these courageous people faced down the virus and put this city on their backs, ensuring that it moved forward. They did so while trying to protect us and their own families during the most trepidation flooded time in our recent history. I paid tribute to delivery people, postal workers, counselors, security guards, as well as the brave health care workers and firemen.
What I did was small. We owe them all far more than this. I sincerely hope that when this world returns to some semblance of normalcy that we do not forget who risked life and limb to ensure that the city’s cogs kept turning…by any essential means.
Article and photos by
Hayden M. Greene Director of Multicultural Affairs Manhattan College
Who's Innovating in Region VII
LIVINGSTON LOUNGE RUTGERS UNIVERSITY- NEW BRUNSWICK
At Rutgers University–New Brunswick, we have six student centers across five campuses. I serve as the Director for two of those six centers, the Busch and Livingston Student Centers, both of which have undergone major renovation projects. At Busch, a renovated food court and newly constructed esports center and at Livingston, a repurposed lounge, complete with a nursing room and a fully functioning ablution station. When I was asked to share specifically the highlights of the Livingston construction project with the Region, I found it necessary to first share how the project came about and how it further highlighted the purpose of our work. In 2018, we were presented with an opportunity to renovate a newly vacated space at Livingston. The 3466 square foot venue was highly visible, located in the front of the building with an attractive glass storefront. Immediately, I knew I wanted to give the space back to the students in a way that would fulfill an unmet need and be unique to my center. The Livingston Student Center lacked areas for nursing parents, had limited resources for our commuter population, and failed to provide a dedicated space for our students to meditate or fulfill their faith-based needs. So, we did what most student affairs professionals do best, we improvised. We offered vacant offices, empty conference rooms (when not being used for an event or program) or directed them to other areas of the larger campus. And for a while this sufficed but deep down, I knew our campus community needed and deserved better.
I presented a concept that was ultimately supported and thus, construction began. Throughout the process, we made it clear to our architects, interior designers and to whomever else was at the table, that inclusivity and community had to be the focal point of this project. All decisions were centered around this. Paint colors were strategically selected, physical walls and barriers were removed, and specific furniture was intentionally placed to encourage engagement and conversation. Two years later, the Livingston Lounge opened in early March 2020.
When you first enter Livingston Lounge, the main wall in front of you boldly reads, Welcome, all in different languages and dialect. The main portion of the lounge features twenty newly installed commuter lockers, and comfortable and modern lounge furniture that includes two wooden, bar height community tables. We provide card and board games for casual play. Our nursing room offers a private and warm atmosphere, equipped with a sink, comfortable furniture, appealing artwork, and personal essentials. Next door is our three-person, fully functioning and accessible ablution station which is equipped with privacy screens for each user. We provide individual cubby units to hold personal belongings as well as fresh towels that are cleaned and replenished on a frequent basis.
The frosted glass doors of the prayer and meditation space open to a large, spacious area for guests to pray, mediate, or simply find solace in a silent moment. Prayer mats are provided. The artwork promotes serenity, peace, and quiet – all things we need but find difficult to pursue in the busy hustle of the day to day. In its first three days of opening, the Livingston Lounge averaged 300 visitors a day. It began to trend on student driven social media outlets and the word began to spread across the Livingston campus. I remember giving a tour of the ablution station to one of our students. They suddenly turned to me and said, “Wow. This is for us?” I was taken aback by the question. Of course, it was, I thought to myself. But then I realized the question was very much rooted in some habits (whether intentional or not) of allowing our unchecked privileges, biases, and assumptions to overlook the very communities our mission statements and carefully crafted strategic plans say we serve. Periodically, we should ask ourselves, how often do we truly practice what we preach? I nodded, smiled and left her to enjoy the space, my heart full.
That small student interaction and the many that followed, further confirmed the impact physical space has on the idea of community and what it means to create it. On the fourth day of our soft opening, and in response to the coronavirus outbreak, our University made the difficult but necessary decision to move students off campus and complete the remainder of the semester remotely. I remember standing in the Lounge, somewhat disheartened by the sudden turn of events. But I am reminded of all that went into getting the space to where it was and what it was that the space was designed to provide. Those things are not diminished by our current circumstance. Of course, I know we aren’t all fortunate enough to have major renovation or construction projects on our campuses, but I would argue that we don’t need one in order to be reminded of our purpose. The Livingston Lounge remains not just a point of pride for our campus community but a personal point of pride for me as a professional. It has reinforced the importance of putting principle into practice, and care into community. For that, I am grateful. Yakima Melton Director, Busch and Livingston Student Centers Rutgers University–New Brunswick yakima.melton@rutgers.edu
Mark your calendar for
UPCOMING EVENTS ACUI has a wide variety of FREE online learning opportunities available to members. Visit www.acui.org/events and www.acui.org/onlinelearning for details. ACUI Together Series February 16 , 12 p.m. Eastern Free Speech Roundtable February 18, 4 p.m. Eastern Engaging in ACUI February 23, 12 p.m. Eastern Creating a Sense of Belonging For Students February 25, 4 p.m. Eastern Telling Our Stories April 23, 3 p.m. Eastern
CUPSI Celebration Series
All events take place from 6–7 p.m. Eastern on the date indicated. Visit https://www.acui.org/poetryslam/ for more information! February 25 – Black History Month March 18 – Womxn’s History Month April 22 – CUPSI Senior Showcase May 20 – Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month June 24 – LGBTQ Pride Month September 23 – Latinx Heritage Month November 18 – Native American Heritage Month December 2 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
See you online for the ACUI Annual Conference! For more information visit
https://www.acui.org/2021
Region VII Healing and Reflection Meetings Join members of ACUI Region VII this spring as we continue to hold Healing and Reflection meetings. Join other Region VII members in a virtual space to discuss the current harms in and around the world in relation to our work at the campus level. For the meeting dates, time, and links be sure to check your email and social media for updates.
2021 I-LEAD® I-LEAD® will be a condensed virtual program in late July. All of the same leadership development in a format that is safe and accessible. Apply for co-lead and small group facilitator positions. Co-lead applications are due March 15. Small group facilitator applications are due May 3. Visit https://www.acui.org/ilead/ for more information!
Updates from the 2021 Region VII
CONFERENCE
PLANNING TEAM
Hello Region VII! I am excited to introduce you to the 2021 Conference Planning Team! This is a driven group of professionals who are eager to put together an amazing experience for you. This team will begin meeting in February and will keep Region VII updated about all of the exciting things we are planning. Keep in mind the conference will take place December 2-5, 2021. Our goals include providing a safe in person experience as well as virtual components for those unable to make it to Washington D.C. We know there are countless unknowns and many questions yet to be answered. Please watch for a survey that will help us plan a successful conference with special consideration for travel and budgets. Should you have any questions, comments, or just want to say hello reach out anytime. I love connecting with fellow ACUI members! Andrea Giachino Andrea.giachino@temple.edu
Save the date! Region VII Conference December 2-5, 2021
MEET THE 2021
CONFERENCE
PLANNING TEAM
Antonio Talamo He/Him/His Keynotes and All Conference Sessions Coordinator Montclair State University
Kerrin Lyles He/Him/His Volunteer and Member Engagement Coordinator Kean University
Krissie Barsema She/Her/Hers Student Experience Coordinator SUNY Geneseo
Melissa Ulmer She/Her/Hers Marketing and Communications Coordinator Rowan University
Sabrina Selvaggio She/Her/Hers Fundraising Coordinator Rutgers University
Madeleine Aborn She/Her/Hers Fundraising Coordinator University of Rochester
Cassandra Lammers She/Her/Hers Entertainment Coordinator George Washington University
Makana A. L. Agcaoili Ze/Zir/Zirs Volunteer and Member Engagement Coordinator Drew University
Madison Yanosky She/Her/Hers Vendor and Sponsorship Coordinator University of Pittsburgh
Zac Lomas He/Him/His Education Coordinator Rutgers University-Camden
Dan Hartman He/Him/His Registration and Evaluation Coordinator Rowan University
Nick Wagner He/Him/His Technology and Logistics Coordinator SUNY Delhi
Kraemer Clayton She/Her/Hers Entertainment Coordinator George Washington University
Casey Coleman He/Him/His 2022 Conference Coordinator Montclair State University
Andrea Giachino She/Her/Hers 2021 Conference Coordinator Temple University
Musings from Region VII's
INCLUSIVITY
COORDINATOR Not So Random Thoughts! Happy New Year All! As we kick off this New Year with positive vibes, here are some important holidays we can all celebrate for February and March! February 12
Friday
Chinese New Year
February 17
Wednesday
Ash Wednesday
February 26
Friday
Purim
March 11
Thursday
Isra and Mi'raj
March 17
Wednesday
St. Patrick's Day
March 28
Sunday
Palm Sunday
March 28
Sunday
Passover (first day)
March 31
Wednesday
César Chávez Day
As we prepare to celebrate Black History Month in February and Women's History Month in March, here are some things to think about.. When thinking about events, we do not only need to highlight the historical events and trauma which lead to Black and Women’s rights in our country. We can also celebrate those everyday achievements and representation. For example: Maybe playing a movie with a full Black or female cast, instead of a White/male savior film in nature. Have we thought about intersectionality? Let's make sure we highlight all identities which represent the experience. Do not let COVID-19 stop you, there are tons of different virtual and hybrid ways to celebrate Black and Women history. Do not let the months hold you back. Black History and Women History should be celebrated all year long! There is nothing stopping you from celebrating any identity or culture at any time. Everyone can celebrate… Black and Women’s history should be celebrated by all, not just by Black people and Women. To close, It has almost been a year since COVID-19 has changed our lives tremendously. Just remember, these are tough times and we need each other more than ever. Please continue to support each other no matter what. It's all a part of being a good human being. Sincerely, Jay Patel ACUI Region VII Inclusivity Coordinator Pateljay@rowan.edu
Who's Innovating in Region VII
MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY HAS "SOME GOOD NEWS" Who says online learning has to be boring? Inspired by John Krasinski's "Some Good News," Montclair State University got their own good news at all new student and transfer orientations. By recreating a studio, using at home props, and with a lot of laughter, students at Montclair learned all about student activities, leadership, and campus life. COVID 19 has provided a lot of stress for many so I was hoping to inspire new students and remind them that there is some good news out there for them. Casey Coleman is the coordinator of student activities at Montclair State University
Are you doing innovative things for your campus? Share with Region VII by emailing Emily Kofman at ekofman@wcupa.edu to be featured in the next newsletter!
Check out these
REGION VII
OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer
Volunteering for Region VII is a great way to expand your network, develop your skills, and give back to your professional association of choice. Volunteer opportunities can be found at https://www.acui.org/volunteer
Apply for Scholarships!
2021 scholarship applications from Region VII will be available soon! Apply to participate in upcoming ACUI learning opportunities and events. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis online at https://www.acui.org/regions/vii/regionalscholarships.
Connect
Now's a great time to reach out to a colleague to encourage self-care and stress management. Take a moment to touch base with one another. Kind people are our kind of people!
Introducing new faces on the
REGION VII
LEADERSHIP TEAM Chrissie King
Hey everyone! My name is Chrissie King and I’m currently the assistant director of the Campus Center at Rutgers UniversityCamden. I’m excited to be a part of the Regional LeadershipTeam as the new Student Involvement Coordinator and am looking forward to helping our students navigate and learn about our wonderful region! A fun fact about me is that growing up, not only did I have a collection of clowns that numbered close to 500, I wanted to be a clown in the circus!
Casey Coleman
My name is Casey Coleman and I am from Montclair State University. I will be the 2022 Conference Chair. I am most excited to work with an amazing team and help bring people together! ACUI has become a family for me and I look forward to creating that feeling for others. Fun fact: I go to my local library so much that they notice when I get a haircut.
Dawn Savage
Hi! My name is Dawn Savage (she/her) and I’m a program coordinator for student organizations at Penn State University University Park. I am an incoming Communications Coordinator and I look forward to working with Emily, a current Communications Coordinator, to spread word of the fantastic ideas that are occurring in the region. I previously served on the ACUI Region VII 2019 Conference Planning Team as the Volunteer and Keynote Coordinator. I am a cat and plant mom who has recently taken up cross-stitching. Purple has always been my favorite color and love that ACUI is another excuse to flaunt it!
Tiffany Brodner
Greetings! I currently serve as the associate director of building operations at the Rochester Institute of Technology. While I am transitioning out of one Regional Leadership Team role, I am moving right along into the next. I am proud to serve as the new Recognition Coordinator for Region VII. I look forward to celebrating the efforts across our region and acknowledging great work. I am originally from Brooklyn NY, but have called the Finger Lakes Region in NY home now for the last 17 years. A “fun fact” about me is until recently, I had never seen a Star Wars movie. Happy to report I am all caught up!
Becki Bruzdzinski
Becki Bruzdzinksi comes to the Regional Leadership Team from Syracuse University. Becki is serving as the Membership Experience Coordinator!
2020 Region VII Awards
REGIONAL AWARD RECIPIENTS Dr. Teresa D. Drummond Memorial Award Rutgers University Programming Association for RUPA Presents: Express Yourself Series, Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Outstanding Community Building Program Award University System of Maryland United Virtual Benefit Concert
Outstanding New Professional Award Denee Jenkins, SUNY Old Westbury
Outstanding Graduate Student Award Serafina Genise, Rowan University
Outstanding Undergraduate Award John Magala IV, Temple University
Christine A Chergi Award Dr. Julie Fleming, Montclair State University
Joseph H. Benedict Award Melissa Ulmer, Rowan University
Featured on
REGION VII'S
Takeover our Story! We want to showcase your work in union or activities in action! Email Dawn Savage at dms1083@psu.edu for the opportunity to takeover our Instagram account for a day or two. This is a great way to highlight unique staffing practices, fun events, or building improvements. We're open to whatever! Over the last year we featured the most incredible takeover from the University of Rochester for their Spring Fest Weekend. We save the takeovers to our highlights, so you can go back to watch them at any time!