Coalition for Multicultural Affairs

Welcome Message from the Chair

Greetings!

I am very pleased to be one of many representatives of the Coalition for Multicultural Affairs, a rich community of traditions and inclusive values. I am excited to be at the helm of our efforts to build safe spaces for underrepresented populations within ACPA and throughout the postsecondary sector. As we work towards upholding our mission through the completion of our goals, we have also committed ourselves to thinking critically and creatively about current issues in higher education. We are an entity focused on innovation, relationship-building, and advocacy, and I am grateful to be actively involved in a group dedicated to supporting minorities in the academy. We are especially excited about the opportunities that abound in hosting the 2019 conference in Boston, and we are hopeful that you are able to join us at this year's convention!

About the Coalition for Multicultural Affairs (CMA)

The Coalition for Multicultural Affairs (CMA) is one of seven different coalitions within the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). Specifically, CMA is composed of five singular Networks: (1) Asian Pacific American, (2) Latin@/x, (3) Multiracial, and (4) Pan African. All four Networks work collectively to promote diversity within ACPA. CMA is a nationally visible and action-oriented group that addresses the changing cultural dynamics within higher education institutions and works to create multicultural strategies and solutions.

Purpose & Mission Statement

The mission of CMA is to focus attention on, and educate the student affairs profession about, the issues and concerns of people of color in higher education. The mission of CMA is to enhance awareness about issues and concerns of individuals and groups from historically marginalized racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds in ACPA and higher education. The Coalition for Multicultural Affairs will work to assure that the organization promotes an environment in which we value every member of the ACPA community, develop the programs and enhance awareness to fulfill our commitment to caring for our diverse local and international communities.

Core Values

Celebration: Celebrating accomplishments of individuals and groups from historically marginalized racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds within ACPA and higher education;
Advocacy: Being proactive and responsive in addressing issues and concerns that impact our constituencies;
Respect: Deepening consciousness of the history of individuals and groups from historically marginalized racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds while honoring the multiple identities that exist within our communities;
Education: Raising awareness and engage professionals within ACPA and higher education about multicultural education and the concerns of individuals and groups from historically marginalized racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds;
Support: Providing support that centers on inclusion and understanding to members of ACPA and within the higher education community.

Our hope is that you find your home at ACPA within our committee and very much look forward to hearing from you!

I strongly encourage you to become involved in the Coalition for Multicultural Affairs, where we are committed to the holistic success of students, faculty, and staff.

Best,

Dr. Jonathan A. McElderry, Chair

Coalition for Multicultural Affairs

Wake Forest University

jon.mcelderry@gmail.com