Why I support UMEC

This letter is in support of Gonzaga University's Multicultural Education Center (UMEC).  I have been a supporter of UMEC for many years serving as a LEADS Mentor and Advisory Board member.  This organization emboldens the mission of the university in many ways.  The following are three reasons I support UMEC.

I support UMEC as a community member.  UMEC brings many interesting programs, speakers, and events to Gonzaga.  I appreciate the diversity of offerings and opportunities to learn often while having a lot of fun.  As a member of the greater Spokane community I appreciate the engagement of UMEC in the community such as supporting the Martin Luther King, Jr. event and Unity in the Community.  Most of the events sponsored by UMEC are free and open to the public, pointing to another way they benefit our entire region.

I support UMEC as an employee.  It is very rewarding to be a LEADS Mentor and get to know some of our incoming freshmen.  My work as Director of Distributive Learning supports mainly our online graduate students in the School of Professional Studies.  Our programs enjoy the diversity of our current students and recognize that providing a quality and welcoming experience to our undergraduates is important as they consider graduate education in the future.  Being involved in UMEC enhances the opportunity to engage with all students in unique ways.

I support UMEC as a future Gonzaga parent.  My son has applied to attend here next year.  While I might be considered a "white ally", my wife is both Chinese and Malagasy.  Knowing that UMEC will welcome my son next year and engage him in worthwhile activities is something we as parents are grateful for.

I encourage everyone at Gonzaga and throughout the Spokane Community to connect with UMEC and find your own reasons to support them.  I can assure you that you will find Tracy Ellis-Ward, Rudy Mondragon, the staff and students of UMEC to be welcoming and open to your contributions.  Together, we are Gonzaga.