NEWS

To create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for more Louisiana Tech University students, the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) has changed its name to the Bulldog Cultural Center.

The Center will continue to focus on raising cultural competence for all members of the Louisiana Tech community, Dean Devonia Love-Vaughn said. Students involved in the Center’s work drove the change.

“We wanted to continue to create a place that would welcome and provide services for any Louisiana Tech students,” Love-Vaughn said. “We also want to provide connections and support for our underrepresented faculty and staff as well. Expanding our services allows us to impact our campus culture in a meaningful and inclusive way.”

Jamar Anderson, a former student and graduate assistant in the Center, has been named Coordinator of Student Engagement for the programs and initiatives housed in the Center. Ally Christian serves as Coordinator for LGBTQ+ Activities, while Jimmy Washington serves as Coordinator of Multicultural Gifts and Advancement. Their work with Louisiana Tech students, alumni, and friends helps advance the Center’s work.

“We continue to work to embody our University’s tenets and meet the goals set forward in our strategic framework,” Love-Vaughn said. “Throughout the history of the Center, we’ve been very intentional in our growth and in our recruitment and retention work. We’re continuing to capitalize on the vision of Mertrude Douglas, our first Director.”

In the past year, the Center has awarded about $55,000 in scholarships, which are funded through private support from Tech graduates and friends. These scholarships, along with student support, are designed to help ensure academic success for students involved with the Center’s work.

“The Bulldog Cultural Center has a rich history of supporting Louisiana Tech’s students,” Washington said. “Our alumni and friends have been incredibly generous benefactors, whose dedication to equity and justice is shown in our students’ success.”

“By renaming the Center, Dean Love-Vaughn and our students have reinforced their focus on creating leaders, increasing knowledge, and strengthening our culture,” said Dr. Les Guice, Louisiana Tech President. “Their work will help our campus modernize its approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I look forward to seeing the difference their efforts make across our campus.”

To support the Bulldog Cultural Center, visit LATechAlumni.org/PottsRobinson.