Old Dominion University
PAE-T2-3: Student Training Opportunities

The Office of Intercultural Relations (OIR) staff members design and implement diversity (cultural competence) trainings and seminars upon request. The Office of Intercultural Relations staff members develop cultural learning modules, based upon the needs and goals of the requestor, and present events that promote cross cultural engagement and celebration of diverse cultures for the university community. Additionally, the Assistant Dean teaches a course entitled, ‘Diversity Issues within Human Services’. Upon request, the OIR staff develops, designs, and implements diversity training module for: Women leaders – Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (W.I.L.D.); Residence Life staff as it relates to cultural bias; Freshman Orientation classes as it relates to cultural bias and ‘isms’; Freshmen Summer Institute as it relates to social justice paradigms; present at academic classes as it relates social justice paradigms and cultural diversity; and student organization as it relates to cross cultural collaboration. Diversity Institute – a comprehensive noncredit semester course that educates and trains student on the various aspects of cultural competency and social justice paradigms. Social Entrepreneurship – a new initiative that focuses on social justice education and awareness. Components consist of Faculty Voice/brown bag series; Spark Change Theater (intercultural film forum that focuses on social justice and advocacy); Dialogue on Emerging Issues; Intercultural Matters series. These activities are primarily faculty led and student driven. To promote internalization, global citizenship, engagement and leadership, cultural activities and global awareness initiatives are developed and executed within OIR’s International unit. With 14 initiatives designed to meet the social/cultural needs of ODU’s international students and build authentic linkages between international and domestic university communities. The following list provides specific opportunities presented to raise the awareness and knowledge of global issues – International Education Week; Asian Seasons (week long fall and spring program targeting Asian countries); International Film Series; ODU International Passport program (promote engagement and participation in international programs); workshops and training that focus on cultural competence from a global perspective and global leadership.