The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) at our university recently celebrated the graduation of its sixth Bridge program cohort, reaffirming its commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds. This year’s program welcomed 36 scholars and 10 peer mentors, offering a rich blend of educational, cultural, and service experiences.
The Bridge program, designed to ease the transition to college life for underrepresented students, provided a wide array of activities to foster personal growth and community engagement. Scholars participated in various educational visits, including trips to Roots 101 and the Muhammad Ali Center in Kentucky. They also had the unique opportunity to explore Churchill Downs, home of the world-famous Kentucky Derby, and visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, where they enjoyed interactive exhibits and the immersive “Greatest Race” 360° experience.
Cultural enrichment was a key focus, with scholars engaging in conversations with drag performers about activism and LGBTQ+ identity, visiting the Breonna Taylor Memorial Park, and attending the African Festival. The program also emphasized physical wellness through activities like yoga and cardio dance. New additions to this year’s program included a camping trip to Mt. Gilead State Park, where scholars enjoyed hiking and cooking over the fire, and a self-defense workshop at Powell Martial Arts. The scholars also had the opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering at the Mid-Ohio Food Network’s MY Family Pantry, where they assisted with sorting and distributing food to members of the Hilltop community.
Academically, the program provided a strong foundation for college success, with scholars completing their first college-level course. The program culminated in a talent show, showcasing the diverse abilities of the participants and fostering a sense of community. As the sixth cohort moves forward in their academic journey, OMSA remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment and providing ongoing support for all students. The Bridge program’s success underscores the importance of community, education, and cultural enrichment in preparing diverse scholars for academic excellence and personal growth.
OWU Sponsoring Organization/Office: OWU -OMSA
Contact: Jason Timpson at jltimpson@owu.edu