In 1970, a class boycott organized by the Black Action Movement (BAM), began a legacy of student activism at the University of Michigan. As a collective effort of several Black student organizations, the primary goal of BAM was to challenge the university’s lack of diversity and civil rights initiatives. The result of these efforts led the university to address many of the concerns around admissions, space, and support for Black students.
Our values manifest in our workplace environment, define how we interact with each other in our organization, and declare how we value students, colleagues, and community.
MESA is grounded in theory, engages both the individual and collective, promotes cross-collaboration, builds intercultural and leadership skills, and empowers students to address social justice issues. We manifest this across four areas of core work: Education and Training, Leadership for Social Change, Programs and Outreach, and Student Engagement
MESA's engagement in communities, leadership development, and social justice education serve our unit’s vision where all members of our community are embraced, nurtured, and able to achieve their version of success.
Why give to MESA?
The Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs is responsible for promoting student development and empowerment of the entire campus community around issues of diversity and social justice through the lens of race and ethnicity.
Your gift will help to enhance the success of students by building support communities through intellectual, social and cultural opportunities, promoting a healthy multicultural and respectful climate that allows for meaningful cross-cultural partnerships among student communities, and engaging students in efforts to further develop and deepens their intercultural skills and competencies.
MESA will be located in the 1443 Washtenaw Ave building from May 2018 through Spring 2020. Once the Michigan Union renovation is complete MESA will be moving back to the Union in a new space on the 3rd-floor.
