Programs and Resources
First Year Student Programming
We work with other offices and student peer educators on Vassar’s First Year program. Designed to introduce new students to academic and co-curricular life, the program offers many opportunities throughout the year for students to engage one another.
Dialogue Programs
The office coordinates several dialogue programs, including the Mixing It Up intergroup dialogues for students from different backgrounds who meet for several weeks to explore questions of identity and social justice. Through the Campus Life Resource Group, we plan Conversation Dinners and the annual All College Day in February as additional dialogue vehicles for all members of the campus community.
Social Justice Education
Several Campus Life programs integrate principles of social justice education by engaging students and others in critical discussions about equity and strategies for interpersonal, group, community, and institutional change. One of our goals is to challenge and support all students through learning about the histories and experiences of diverse communities.
Resource Centers
The ALANA Center, The Blegen House , and the Women’s Center all provide support to various identity groups and the larger campus community. By building affirming environments and promoting cross-cultural communication, the centers seek to foster pluralism, inclusion, and equity within the Vassar community.
The centers coordinate a wide range of educational programs and resources for students of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer students, and diverse gender communities. Leadership development, advocacy, social justice, and service learning are guiding principles for the resource centers. The centers also network with the larger campus community by working closely with all students, academic departments, and administrative offices.
Leadership and Peer Education
Students play key roles in shaping campus life whether as participants in organizations, discussion facilitators, participants in dialogues, or student staff. The Campus Life Office coordinates campus and intercollegiate conferences that provide unique student leadership opportunities and forums for campus engagement.
Responding to Student Crises
Through a variety of resources, including the Campus Life Response Team, the office works closely with administrative offices, faculty, and students, in responding to student crises, campus conflicts, and situations that impact the quality of student life. The team consists of administrators and faculty who are equipped to respond to student needs and recommend strategies for institutional support.
Advising and Advocacy
We work with individual students and student groups to address campus life and community concerns—whether they are personal, inter-group, or institutional. Anyone can contact the office or staff members for assistance or to make referrals.