and provides opportunities for interactions with faculty and staff outside the classroom. For some students, the pursuit of higher education may present particular challenges, and the office staff provides special assistance and motivation to such students, as well as offering guidance and assistance with academic, social, cultural, and personal concerns. They also oversee the efforts of the Minority Advising Program (MAP), the Minority Graduate Leadership Program, and the Talented Tenth Student Group. Information on these programs can be found at www. aug.edu/student_development. Also, visit Student Activities at http://www.aug. edu/student_activities for a list of student organizations that address diversity.
Study Abroad Programs 706-729-2306
Study Abroad offers ASU students courses for credit through affiliated institutions in a number of countries. This program provides the opportunity for gaining fresh perspectives. By living in a foreign country, students are constantly challenged in new and exciting ways and gain a level of independence they never knew they had. Study Abroad offers exposure to diverse people, viewpoints, and experiences. Students are immersed in the language, culture, and people of their host country and get to experience life as a resident, not as a tourist. For more information, visit www.aug. edu/studyabroad/.
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college celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The program, which rotates among the three host institutions, features distinguished speakers on topics espoused by Dr. King. The university plans special programs throughout the year to celebrate African American history, with many events scheduled during Black History Month. Past programs have included such events as community forums on race, book discussions, the Buffalo Soldiers, art exhibitions, jazz concerts, and national speakers. Culminating the month is a recognition ceremony of top African American high school students in the CSRA. The university takes part in the annual University System of Georgia Minority Graduate Leadership Program, a three-day weekend conference. The program exposes African American juniors and seniors to graduate opportunities within the University System of Georgia. The cultures of international students are celebrated through an annual international festival. The International Student Club provides a social, economic, and educational environment for the international students on campus. The club hosts an Annual Thanksgiving Potluck Dinner, a trip during spring break, and several other events during the year. Each fall, the university sponsors a Study Abroad Fair. Different countries are represented as possible study abroad opportunities. Students who have studied abroad share their experiences. ASU international students showcase their countries as possible study abroad opportunities for ASU students. A celebration of Women’s Week draws attention to women’s history. Each spring, the university hosts a Take Back the Night rally to create awareness of issues of abuse and other forms of violence toward women and children, including projects such as the Clothesline Project, Jeans for Justice, Shoes, and Pinwheels for Prevention.
Programs that Enhance Diversity
Throughout the year, ASU presents special programs to promote awareness and understanding of the various cultures represented on campus. • Each year Augusta State, along with Paine College and the Medical College of Georgia, holds a tri-
ASU is a unit of the University System of Georgia. Produced by the Office of Public Relations and Publications.
A Message from the Dean
Diversity at Augusta State Diversity is more than a buzzword at Augusta State University. It is a principle woven into our curriculum, into our services, and our spirit. We are proud of that diversity. Our students are diverse in ethnicity, age, background, and experience. They come from more than 60 countries and nearly every state. About 34 percent are minority, with 25 percent being African American. ASU is a co-educational university, with students ranging from joint enrolled high school students to senior citizens. Nearly all of our students work, in either full- or parttime jobs. This is true diversity, and it offers Augusta State students an education within an education. Their exposure to cultural differences fosters greater understanding and appreciation for the human experience and enhances their abilities to become successful in their careers and lives. Augusta State University is proud to offer an educational environment that promotes cultural growth and encourages cultural sensitivity and appreciation. Joyce Jones Vice President for Student Services and Dean of Students
modations are made on an individual basis. Visit www.aug. edu/testing_and_disability_services/ for more information.
International Student Services 706-737-1411 Students from more than 60 countries attend Augusta State, and these international students have an advisor to assist with adapting to university and community life. A coordinator for international student services in the Dean of Students Office actively seeks opportunities to introduce international students to American culture. An International Friendship Program pairs international students with other ASU students and faculty members to assist in adjusting to a new culture during their first semester at ASU. Each semester, international students are hosted at a university reception which offers them an opportunity to meet each other as well as university administrators and faculty. Students find support through the International Students Club, and multicultural festivals and forums acquaint all ASU students with the customs and traditions of ASU’s international students. Visit www.aug.edu/international_students/ for more information.
Minority Advising Program
The Minority Advising Program (MAP) promotes the retention and advancement of minority students, particularly African Americans. It offers assistance with the academic, social, cultural, and personal concerns of minority students. Black History Month
Visit www.aug.edu/minority_advising.htm for more information.
Nontraditional Students
Nontraditional is a classification denoting students who are over the age of 25 when they enter the university. About one-third of ASU students are considered nontraditional, and Augusta State offers support to these students to enhance their academic experience. Joining a student nontraditional group, such as ALERTS (Adult Learners Eagerly Returning to School) provides additional support, and staying connected through their space on campus email (Pipeline) is an effective means of staying informed as well as providing input. Visit www.aug.edu/alerts/ for more information.
Student Development 706-729-2351
The Office of Student Development, housed in Washington Hall, assists students in academic advancement, connects them with valuable campus resources, Take Back the Night
Disability Services 706-737-1469
The Office of Testing and Disability Services, located in the Arsenal Quadrangle between Fanning Hall and the Benet House, actively fosters an environment that encourages full participation by students with disabilities in every segment of the university. The office coordinates the opportunities that contribute to a positive and welcoming academic and social environment for students. All accom-
Through a mentoring program, faculty and staff members provide support and encouragement to MAP students and help them in adjusting to university life. Get-togethers are held each semester to promote friendship and fellowship among minority students. Throughout the year, student success seminars and motivational speakers strengthen MAP students with the skills and motivation to succeed.
Buffalo Soldiers