Who We Are
The Office of Multicultural Affairs' commitment to equity and inclusion is deeply rooted in our Vincentian and Catholic mission, which calls us to uphold the inherent dignity of every person, foster a spirit of compassion, and actively serve those on the margins of society. Guided by these values, we strive to cultivate a campus culture where all individuals are respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Through intentional programs, partnerships, and policies, our efforts reflect the Vincentian call to action — to walk in solidarity with others, respond to the needs of all, and promote justice through education and community engagement. In doing so, we affirm our collective responsibility to build a university community grounded in faith, service, and a profound respect for the diversity of human experience.
Our office provides programs, services, and spaces that are open and welcoming to all students.
While our initiatives are inclusive of the entire student body, they are thoughtfully designed to highlight cultural experiences and foster greater intercultural understanding.
We fulfill our mission by providing educational opportunities, engaging training sessions, culturally enriching programs, and holistic services.
Through intentional collaboration with campus and community partners, we strive to cultivate a campus environment rooted in respect and belonging for all.
As a department, we are committed to broadening students’ cultural awareness and enhancing their capacity for empathy by introducing them to perspectives and experiences that may differ from their own. We actively contribute to institutional efforts that support a positive and supportive campus climate, while promoting global citizenship and the personal growth of every student we serve.
OMA Signature Programs
PROJECT AIM INTERNATIONAL MENTORING
Over two decades of student success at St. John’s!
MISSION
PROJECT AIM is a peer-mentoring program that promotes Student Belonging and Success by supporting Holistic Development and Retention of first year and second year international undergraduate students.
Through a social and intellectual learning environment that occurs beyond the classroom, PROJECT AIM supports student success through five targeted pillars:
- Acclimation to the University
- An Increased Sense of Belonging
- Global Cultural Awareness/Appreciation
- Leadership/Career Development
- Academic Achievement.
Mentoring is a brain to pick, a warm heart to care for, an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on, and a push in the right direction for success!
Register to become a PROJECT AIM mentee and receive a professional mentor to work side by side to achieve your success throughout the academic year!
Eligibility:
- First year and second year international undergraduate students with F-1 or J-1 visa.
- Domestic freshmen with foreign academic credentials.
Click Mentee Registration Form to apply.
Mentee spots are limited!
The Mentee registration is open until all spots are filled or by mid-October.
For questions about Project AIM: International Mentoring Program, please contact:
Rosa C. Yen, M. Ed.'03 | M.A. '12 & '21
Director of International Student Development & Multicultural Affairs
D’Angelo Cetner Room 124
718-990-5023
Key Resources:
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COUNCIL (ISC)
MISSION
The International Student Council (ISC) is committed to supporting international students with F-1 or J-1 visa at all levels by ensuring them access the tools and resources offered by the University to foster a stronger sense of belonging and to achieve a well-rounded college experience. Through ISC, international students are provided with a central platform to amplify their voice, address their unique needs, build a global community, respond to global issues affecting them, and enhance their engagement on campus; ultimately, strengthening their connections to St. John's University.
S.C.O.P.E. to Elevate Support and Success for International Students at St. John's!
Scan both campus and global environments to identify critical needs and emerging trends that affect international students and shape their overall experience.
Create dedicated opportunities and spaces on campus for international students to voice their needs and concerns; while consistently communicating positive, proactive changes the University is implementing in response.
Offer thoughtful recommendations to the ISC Chairs on institutional responses to global and campus issues that affect international students and their overall experience.
Promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students and visitors, with particular attention to the needs and experiences of international students.
Engage international students by addressing student needs and implementing selected approved programming and policy-based solutions.
Be the voice of St. John’s international Johnnies!
All students with F-1 or J-1 visa are welcome to apply.
Click ISC Member Application Form to apply.
For questions about International Student Council (ISC), please contact:
Rosa C. Yen, M. Ed. ‘03 | M.A. ’12 & ‘21
Director of International Student Development & Multicultural Affairs
D’Angelo Cetner Room 124
718-990-5023
Key Resources:
Culture & Identity-Based Programs
In appreciation and celebration of historically underrepresented groups, the Office of Multicultural Affairs collaborates with student leaders, student organizations, and campus partners to host month-long observances and special cultural events. The heritage months our office organizes are below.
Latinx Heritage Month (LHM)
Latinx Heritage Month, also known as National Hispanic Heritage Month is nationally celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Native and Indigenous Heritage Month (NIHM)
Annually in the month of November, we recognize, appreciate and celebrate the shared history and culture of Native and Indigenous peoples of America.
Black History/Heritage Month (BHM)
Black History/Heritage Month, or National African American History Month, is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history.
Asian American/Pacific-Islander Heritage Month (APHM)
Typically recognized nationally in May, our University celebrates this month in April. Asian American /Pacific-Islander Heritage Month is a celebration of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders history and contributions in the United States. The cultures celebrated in this month include those from all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
Special Events
In addition to specific heritage month celebrations our University takes pride highlight the rich cultures, stories and accomplishments of all. We offers special events for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Lunar New Year, Juneteenth, LGBTQ+ History Month, PRIDE, and many more
Join Our Culture & Identity-Based Programming Council (CIPC)
Calling all Johnnies: We want YOU to join the Culture & Identity-Based Programming Council! All students are welcome to apply.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is looking for the next wave of culture-shapers who would like to support the office with the planning and execution of OMA organized culture and identity-based celebrations, programs and select special events.
CIPC is more than just a council; it's a movement. It's where culture, identity and creativity collide in real-time. It's a space where your story matters and where you can connect, express and gain valuable leadership skills. We're not just looking for members, we're looking for the next storytellers, creatives and changemakers. CIPC is a community. As a part of this community, you get the opportunity to show up, contribute and leave your mark!
Bottom Line: CIPC is a space where real conversations happen. Not just history lessons, but how identity plays out in your life in real-time. It's not just about showing up, it's about creating. From social content to events, you'll actually contribute. You'll build skills that are resume-builders and make you stand out for future internships and career opportunities. You'll meet dope people. From peers to professors to potential mentors. It's a space for every story, including yours. If you're into culture, identity, creativity or just finding a place where you belong this is it. To apply, visit the Culture & Identity-Based Programming Council Application today.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs is now the managing department for the Safe Zone Program at St. John's University. Since the summer of 2020, the OMA has worked with several student leaders, faculty, and staff to revitalize its program.
SJU Safe Zone Program
St. John's recognizes and celebrates the intrinsic worth of all individuals.
The Safe Zone Program was revamped during the 2020-21 academic year by Spectrum leaders and SEW leaders from the Queens and Staten Island, NY, campuses. Safe Zone remains a university collaboration of students, administrators, faculty, and staff . This program would not be as successful without key support by members of Spectrum Student Organization, Wellness, the Office of the Dean of Students, the Office of Equity & Inclusion, the Office of the Provost, and other key divisions.
The primary mission of St. John's University's Safe Zone Program is to create a means through which we can consistently support members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and other community members (LGBTQ+) in their growth and development, while honoring and celebrating the holistic experiences of the individual.
To achieve this, the Safe Zone Program seeks to:
- Educate community members in a broad model that may surface inner biases and/or conflict preventing folx from offering authentic support to students.
- Heighten awareness of current issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community at St. John's University
- Recognize the needs and identities of LGBTQ+ folx, inclusive of all Gender & Sexual Minorities, in university-wide programming
- Partner with individuals who desire to be active allies and to expand their understanding of the rich, nuanced, and lived experiences of the LGBTQ+ community
- Build the network of trainers/facilitators who seek to provide brave spaces, education, support, information, and connection.
Safe Zone offers 3-levels before participants can be Safe Zone Certified. Once participants are certified, they can sign up to become Safe Zone Facilitators by taking the 3-Hour Safe Zone Train the Trainer workshop. Any current St. John's University student, faculty, staff, or administrator is certified can request to attend train the trainer sessions.
Safe Zone Training/Workshop Offerings
Level 1: "Get Used to It: Gender, Sexuality & Love"
Level 2: "Pride Applied: Intersecting Identities and Effective Allyship"
Level 3: "Allyship: More Than a Buzzword"
Train the Trainer: "Step Up or Move Back!"
Safe Zone workshops are offered on the Queens, NY, and Staten Island, NY, campuses, as well as virtually. Students, faculty, staff, or administrators interested in becoming a St. John's University Safe Zone Certified ally or trainer may sign up, below.
Safe Zone Participant Sign-Up/RSVP
From the Blog
Breaking Barriers: A First-Generation College Student’s Story
My name is Teodita, pronounced “tea-oh-dye-tuh.” I once felt my name was a burden, as it often led to teasing from peers and teacher mispronunciations. However, my name embodies my identity. I am half Guatemalan and half Dominican, and both cultures have profoundly influenced who I am as a first-generation college student.
LGBTQIA+ Student Support: How St. John’s University Leads the Way
As an LGBTQIA+ student, choosing a college or university that truly supports and celebrates you can transform your experience. St. John’s University is committed to creating a campus where you feel safe, valued, and empowered. Here, you find a community that genuinely embraces diversity with a strong dedication to fostering personal growth and academic success.
In this blog, you explore the resources and initiatives at St. John’s that make it a leader in LGBTQIA+ support. Plus, you hear directly from students and faculty involved in making campus life inclusive and supportive.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: St. John’s Commitment
At St. John’s University, our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion isn’t just a philosophical stance—it’s the beating heart of our institution. As a Catholic and Vincentian university, we are deeply rooted in the values of compassion, justice, and solidarity with the marginalized. For over a century and a half, we have upheld these principles, striving to create an environment where every member of our community feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive.
Q&A with Candice D. Roberts, Ph.D.
Meet Candice D. Roberts, Ph.D., pronouns: they/them; Director, The LGBTQ+ Center; Associate Professor, Division of Mass Communication.