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The ultimate mission of the Office of Multicultural Student Development Services (MSDS) is to create and environment at Florida Gulf Coast University that embraces individual differences, sustains inclusions, and cultivates a campus atmosphere that is free from biases. In the spirit of inclusive educational excellence, MSDS promotes a supportive and friendly environment that is welcoming and attractive to all persons regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, gender/gender identity, religious conviction, sexual orientation, or disability status. MSDS is a multifaceted, student-oriented office that focuses on providing an optimal educational experience in and out of the classroom for students from diverse backgrounds. The department is under the guidance of the Dean of Students Office in the division of student Affairs.
The purpose of MSDS is to assist the university in the fulfillment of its mission by encouraging each person and cultural group to assertively affirm the unique richness of their heritage, ethnicity, identity and ability.
Our vision is to build a campus community of scholars and leaders who serve all humankind by participating in the FGCU community. This is demonstrative of the values related to intellect, spirituality, culture and heritage. These actions shall contribute to developing, upholding, and preservation of a strong and nurturing, multicultural diverse and pluralistic campus community.
Multicultural Student Development Services thrives on the motto "Engage!, Discover!, Learn!" We believe that by conversing with others, participating in cultural practices and religious / faith services, attending art exhibits, museums, theatrical performances, reading intercultural and international books, magazines and journals one can achieve these.
In accordance with the FGCU Strategic Plan and in partnership with other units on campus, the Office of Multicultural Student Development Services (MSDS) seeks to facilitate the experience for diverse and multicultural students through the provision of culturally relevant services that foster their successful transition, persistence, achievement, and graduation.
Goal I: Develop and implement outreach programs designed to welcome and aid in the transition and adjustment of incoming students.
Goal II: Provide support opportunities that improve the retention, achievement, and graduation of multicultural students.
Goal III: Provide opportunities that foster and recognize student involvement and leadership, professional development, and preparation for post-baccalaureate endeavors.
Goal IV: Document and analyze the enrollment, retention, achievement, and graduation trends of multicultural students.
Goal V: Develop University-wide and community partnerships to facilitate their engagement to increase the retention, achievement, and graduation of multicultural students.
Goal VI: Nurture an environment that fosters the growth and sustainability.1
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