Greetings, Oles!

As we compose this message, we find communities across the United States and around the globe grappling with recent and continued instances of harm and violence against marginalized populations, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our community, too, is grappling. As we join together this fall, we must continue to explore, research, study, discuss, and address the manifestations of systemic racism in the fulfillment of our shared vision of a more just future.

At St. Olaf, we are committed to and understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is our goal to carve out intentional spaces within our community for students to explore, engage, and strengthen the different parts of their identities. As a means of welcoming you into our commitment, we have crafted a number of opportunities to engage in virtual conversations with current students, staff, and faculty in various ways. From identity affinity spaces to virtual social events, there are numerous opportunities to begin crafting your St. Olaf community this summer. The schedule of virtual drop-ins can be found on the New Student Orientation website. We sincerely hope you will join us!

At this time, we’d like to introduce you to one of our campus resources: The Taylor Center. The Taylor Center for Equity and Inclusion is driven to provide support for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, first-generation, and international Oles. The center is here to challenge you, support you, and help you become the leader that you were meant to be through programs, events, workshops, or student organizations. Whether it is because you found a home away from home at the center, you engage with its programs, or just because you come to grab a cup of coffee or tea, the Taylor Center welcomes you as you are to explore, share, learn, and build community. 

Learn more about the Taylor Center!

This Week’s To-Dos:

1. Check-in with the Financial Aid Office if you are receiving need-based aid – due June 30
2. Fill out the Advising Questionnaire form – due June 30
3. Begin Placement Surveys – must be completed by July 1 *if required — refer to your New Student Checklist