Office of Civic and Community Engagement
Programs and Services
The Office of Multicultural Affairs & Community Resources (OMACR) includes Columbia College’s Diversity Officer and two staff members, the Director of OMACR and the Graduate Assistant of OMACR. The mission of OMACR is to foster respect for multiculturalism and an appreciation for the diverse experiences of our campus community while promoting access and equity for underrepresented students. The OMACR mission complements those of the College and Division of Student Affairs by providing support in four specific areas: diversity programs and services, community resources, international student support, and study abroad advising.
At Columbia College, we empower our students to change the world. Students are encouraged to be active and socially responsible citizens who create positive and sustainable change by embracing their individual talents, personal passion, and the many opportunities afforded to them during their educational experience. The Office of Civic and Community Engagement (CCE) provides extended community-based learning options through academic collaborations for research and scholarship, innovative civics sessions, service-learning opportunities, social justice and leadership development trainings, study abroad, alternative breaks, and mission trips.
The CCE supports the college’s mission and vision by developing and implementing capacity-building programs that foster mutually beneficial collaborations with the surrounding community. The office seeks to cultivate the knowledge, skills, values, and motivation needed to make a difference and enhance the quality of life through civic responsibility, public service, and community engagement. By connecting student talents and needs with community resources and needs, we collaboratively enrich individual and community learning while contributing to the public good.
The Office of Civic and Community Engagement is led by the Executive Director, who works closely with campus and community partners. Student volunteers make up an integral part of the CCE, assisting the Executive Director as catalysts for civic innovation and building a culture of active citizenship and social responsibility throughout the College.
Community Engagement
The CCE connects students to organizations, networks, and communities outside of Columbia College to support students' feelings of belonging and purpose within our greater community. Furthermore, the CCE partners with organizations within our community to help eliminate barriers students may face in their service to society.
International Student Support
Student Affairs provides an orientation program for new first-year and transfer international students. Additionally, all international students are provided with support services, advising on immigration compliance, and social programs. By monitoring College compliance with federal immigration laws, our designated school officials can advise international students in resolving academic, financial, and personal difficulties in coordination with campus constituents. Beyond compliance with campus policies, the Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) and additional Designated School Officials (DSOs) can assist students in identifying appropriate external immigration assistance.
Study Abroad Advising
Students interested in studying abroad for a semester, for an academic year, or during the summer at one of our partnering exchange institutions may receive advice and assistance in planning the experience. Students interested in short-term service or research-based study travel may also contact Student Affairs for guidance. We provide program-specific information, including cost analyses and funding guidance; assist students and their academic advisors in preparing to assess the viability of the potential experience; and provide pre-departure and return education opportunities for students traveling outside the U.S., as well as inbound international orientation programs for students who choose to study abroad at Columbia College.