Programming

The Intercultural & Diversity Affairs Center with various campus offices and academic departments host a series of Critical Conversations and discussions. These Critical Conversations provide a meaningful out-of-class experience and foster a campus environment where students are free to discuss cultural differences. Critical Conversations provide an opportunity to engage the campus community in a dialog about current topics related to diversity. All students, faculty, staff, parents, and community members of all backgrounds are welcome to participate. 

Starting in Fall 2023, IDA will host game nights. The game nights will allow for students to get together and learn from one another in an informal setting. This allows students the opportunity to learn classic games at their own pace in the company of their peers. Remain on the lookout for dates in the Fall. 

Starting in Fall 2023! 

Do you have a new piece you want to test out on a small audience. Stop by IDA and share your words. The IDA Poetry Slam allows students to perform their poetry and spoken word in a low-tech environment as they test out how the words feel and how their work may be received by an audience of peers. Be on the lookout for Fall dates.

Starting in Fall 2023!

The life of a college student includes so much more than going to class. Many students work, help support their families, and participate in multiple extracurricular activities. It is important to set aside time to decompress and prioritize mental health. These sessions will include discussions around best practices for self-care, meditation, and mental health resources.

This is a talent show where students showcase their cultures on-stage for an audience of their peers. This event is held every Fall semester and is open to all students across campus to participate. It is encouraged that students perform something that showcases their culture through music, dance, or another form of entertainment.

Latin American Culture Night – October 5, 2023; STU Commons

A night on the STU Commons for food, dancing, and music. Join your classmates for a night under the stars celebrating the vibrant cultures of Latin America at MTSU. 

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – October 24, 2023 

Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday observed to honor deceased relatives with food, drink, and celebration. IDA will honor this holiday by allowing students to display Ofrendas in the IDA Center and through discussions of the importance of the holiday in Latin culture. 

An annual MTSU tradition held to honor Dr. Martin Luther King and his wife, Coretta Scott King. This tribute is a celebration of their lives and humanitarian contributions. This event highlights community and campus words of encouragement with a candlelight vigil in honor of Dr. and Mrs. King. 

Unity Luncheon

Established in 1996, the Unity Luncheon pays homage to “unsung heroes” in the community. JB Smiley Jr. is an attorney from Memphis. TN that has worked within the community to influence positive change.

Showtime at the Apollo

A night of talented acts and entertainment as we re-create the hit TV show, “Showtime at the Apollo”!

John Pleas Award

This award is presented annually to an African American faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and service. The award was established in 1997 to honor Dr. John Pleas, MTSU emeritus of Psychology.

Keynote Speaker

The keynote event provides a chance to hear informed and empowering words from a prominent figure of the African-American community, in addition to the opportunity for a photo and book signing. 

This state-wide conference is held each year in April on the MTSU campus. This conference serves to help participates be more effective advocates for themselves and their communities. Throughout the conference you have several opportunities to listen to and meet with established presenters, celebrate graduating students during the Lavender Graduation, and honoring those within the community during the conference award dinner. Find additional information about the LGBT+ College Conference here. 

Each summer MTSU hosts new student orientation for all incoming Freshman and Transfer students. During each CUSTOMS session, IDA participates in the Yard Party to allow us an opportunity to meet with students and discuss what our office offers. 

Juneteenth is a Federal Holiday observed to commemorate the emancipation of African-Americans in the United States. During this time the IDA Office works to highlight the importance of this holiday through food, music, and celebration. 

Celebrated in the month of June, Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. Throughout Pride Month, we will host events to highlight and celebrate the LGBT+ community.