In a recent meeting at St. Martin's University, officials discussed the evolution and ongoing initiatives of the institution's Diversity and Equity Center, which was established in 2017 in response to growing concerns about diversity and inclusion on campus. The center was created following student advocacy during a tumultuous political climate, particularly around issues such as DACA, gender identity, and disability rights.

The center has since expanded its offerings, including the addition of a lounge space to foster community engagement. The meeting highlighted various programs aimed at supporting marginalized and historically excluded students, including the AHANA orientation program, which has successfully welcomed students of color for 14 years, and a social justice advocacy initiative that involves immersive service trips.

Officials emphasized the importance of training faculty and staff to effectively navigate discussions around race, gender, and sexuality, aiming to create a more inclusive environment within classrooms. The meeting also introduced the Saints Mentor with Heart program, designed to assist first-year students in overcoming academic challenges through peer mentorship.

Additionally, the university is seeing an increase in international student enrollment, with 60 new students joining this year, marking a significant milestone for the institution. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing assessment of campus climate through surveys and the establishment of a Bias Impact Response Team to address incidents of bias and promote healing within the community.

Overall, the discussions underscored St. Martin's commitment to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment, driven largely by student input and engagement.