The History of the Office of Intercultural Programs
The Office of Intercultural Programs was created in the fall of 1989 as the Office of Minority Student Affairs and Cultural Diversity. Prior to this date, Minority Student Affairs and Cultural Diversity was a dual position that included Affirmative Action duties and was housed in the President's Office. The position was moved to the Student Services Division and dropped Affirmative Action, which is now part of the Diversity and Equal Opportunity Office.

In 1989, The Office of Minority Student Affairs and Cultural Diversity served roughly 350 students, primarily African American and Latino/a students. Over the last 13 years the minority student rate has fluctuated from as low as one hundred to 403 students in 2002.  The office exists to serve all students with a primary focus on African American, Latino/a American, Native American and Asian American students.

In the fall of 2002, Mrs. DaNine J. Fleming was hired as Director of the office.  The office name was changed from Minority Student Affairs and Cultural Diversity to Minority Student Affairs.  During the summer of 2003 Mr. Robert E. Clay joined the office staff as the Assistant Director.

The Office of Minority Student Affairs also engages in activities that expose the University community to the cultural richness of a multi-ethnic population. The office has implemented this by hosting programs that educate all constituents on the richness found in celebrating the differences of all individuals.

Effective July 1, 2003 the office name changed once again to the Office of Intercultural Programs during the reorganization of the Division of Student Life. Thus addressing the holistic development of a diverse student body.

Our Vision
The vision of the Office of Intercultural Programs is to be the impetus for successful experiences for historically bypassed students in higher education.

Our Mission
The Office of Intercultural Programs is a comprehensive office that assists with the holistic development of historically bypassed students. The primary focus of the office is to assist in the development of students who are able to compete in a diverse environment.  It encourages exposure to the cultural richness found within gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, creed, age and disability. Retention and personal enhancement programs are instituted for students to promote academic success and professional development.

Cultural Center
The Cultural Center serves as a "home away from home" for students at Slippery Rock University. The center provides a meeting place to enhance the vibrant campus culture, which exists within the student body.  This center is not limited to historically bypassed students becoming educated about each other, but is also a haven for majority students, while maintaining a supportive environment promoting the academic achievement and personal well being of all students.  The Cultural Center is located near the Multi-Purpose Room of the University Union.  If you would like to reserve this space please feel free to come by the Office of Intercultural Programs.

The Personal Excellence Program (PEP) is a comprehensive effort to address student retention through programmatic efforts.  Services that fall under the Personal Excellence Program are listed below.

Retention Programs

Diversity Awareness Programs

Outreach Programs

Early Intervention Residence Halls 

This is a reporting system to get information and referrals from Residence Hall Directors to Assist students who have adjustment issues.

Early Intervention Faculty

This is a reporting system to get information and referrals from Faculty to assist students who have adjustment issues. 

Student Development Seminars

Seminars are identified and/or coordinated throughout each semester to provide students with valuable techniques and knowledge about study habits, multiculturalism, career exploration, the power of positive thinking and more.

Student Development Opportunities

Opportunities for students to refine their skills through hosting programs, introducing featured speakers, participating in student lectures, planning and co-presenting workshops and more.

Director: Dr. DaNine J. Fleming, Ed.D. 

Assistant Director: Mr. Robert E. Clay, M.S.

Secretary/Webmaster: Mrs. Shantal Cabell

Graduate Assistant: Ms. Melissa Szamrey

Office of Intercultural Programs 
Slippery Rock University
102 University Union
Slippery Rock, PA 16057
Phone: (724) 738-2700  Fax: (724) 738-4474