Are cultural centers ethnic enclaves of segregation; or safe havens that provide minority students with social support that promotes persistence and retention?Though Black cultural centers boast a 40-year history; there is much misinformation about them and the ethnic counterparts to which they gave rise. Moreover; little is known about their historical roots; current status; and future prospects. The literature has largely ignored the various culture center models; and the role that such centers play in the experiences of college students. This book fills a significant void in the research on ethnic minority cultural centers; offers the historic background to their establishment and development; considers the circumstances that led to their creation; examines the roles they play on campus; explores their impact on retention and campus climate; and provides guidelines for their management in the light of current issues and future directions.In the first part of this volume; the contributors provide perspectives on culture centers from the point of view of various racial/ethnic identity groups; Latina/o; Asian; American Indian; and African American. Part II offers theoretical perspectives that frame the role of culture centers from the point of view of critical race theory; student development theory; and a social justice framework. Part III focuses specifically on administrative and practice-oriented themes; addressing such issues as the relative merits of full- and part-time staff; of race/ethnic specific as opposed to multicultural centers; relations with the outside community; and integration with academic and student affairs to support the mission of the institution. For administrators and student affairs educators who are unfamiliar with these facilities; and want to support an increasingly diverse student body; this book situates such centers within the overall strategy of improving campus climate; and makes the case for sustaining them. Where none as yet exist; this book offers a rationale and blueprint for creating such centers. For leaders of culture centers this book constitutes a valuable tool for assessing their viability; improving their performance; and ensuring their future relevance – all considerations of increased importance when budgets and resources are strained. This book also provides a foundation for researchers interested in further investigating the role of these centers in higher education.
#8163454 in Books Potomac Books Inc. 2004-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 .68 x 6.00 x 9.66l; 1.10 #File Name: 1574888951260 pages
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