Women’s History Month is celebrated in March and it’s an annual celebration to recognize the accomplishments, contributions, and historical significance of women. From pioneers in science and technology to trailblazers in arts and activism, women have shaped our world in remarkable ways.    Women’s History Month began as National Women’s History week, a local celebration in California. Organizers chose to start on March 8: International Women’s Day. A consortium of women’s groups then petitioned Congress and the White House in support of a national Women’s History Week. In 1980, Pres ..read more

[Springfield, 02/22/2024] – The Office of Multicultural Programs is delighted to announce its recent success in securing a grant through Springfield Black Tie, a prominent local organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives through impactful fundraising efforts that benefit both local and national charities.  The grant, totaling $25,500, represents a significant milestone for the Multicultural Programs office. This financial support will be instrumental in bolstering ongoing LGBTQ+ initiatives and further enhancing the inclusivity of the existing programming.  Dr. Nina Bar ..read more

Black History Month is the month-long commemoration of African American history and achievement. It has taken place each February in the United States since beginning in 1976. Every February, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an enduring part of our country’s history. The idea for a Black History Month was first conceived by the historian Carter G. Woodson and members of his Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now th ..read more

In history, we view awareness months as chances to increase our familiarity with and focus on the past and present-day struggles of historically marginalized communities.  How Women’s History Month started Did you know, women’s history month started as women’s history week? In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the majority of women started to campaign for women’s right particularly the right to vote. People in the United States celebrate the achievement and history of women every March. In March 1978, educators in Santa Rosa, California was the first to celebrate women’s history as ..read more

LGBTQ+ History Month was first proposed in 1994 by Missouri teacher, Rodney Wilson, but it wasn’t until 1995 that it became a nationally observed month. While both Pride Month and LGBTQ+ History Month celebrate those who identify as LGBTQ+, the history month is dedicated to education. October was chosen because National Coming Out Day falls on October 11th. This holiday commemorates October 11th, 1987, when 500,000 people came together for March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. How Can I Celebrate? Missouri State University’s own LGBTQ+ Student Services, as well as Melaqueer and ..read more

Shy Wells is the new assistant director for multicultural services/LGBTQ+ student services. A former student, Wells is a Springfield local.  Wells graduated in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in medical terminology and is now pursuing a master’s degree in social work online while leading a valuable campus resource.  A shared perspective  Wells knows what it’s like to start in a new place.   “I was an online, two-time transfer student who was not sure if I had a place on campus,” Wells said. “It was not until I came to the Multicultural Reso ..read more