DE&I Signature Events & Programs

The Diversity Advocate Certification Program at Augustana provides participants with the tools needed to become change agents through the demonstrated use of acquired knowledge, support and awareness — aimed at creating an inclusive environment. These courses are offered online year-round and allow participants to work at their own pace. During the academic year, in-person courses are offered on Fridays, typically at 10:30 a.m. in the Center for Centers Conference Room within the DE&I/IPO Suite.

A recognition ceremony is held each year for graduates of the Diversity Advocate Certification Program, affinity organizations and the Journey Scholars Program.

• 2025 DE&I Graduation | Friday, May 16 | 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Following the death of George Floyd, Mindful Mondays was organized by Augustana students to promote mental-health resources for systemically non-dominant (Jenkins, 2018) students. Since then, Mindful Mondays has grown from a virtual event to an interactive and engaging program encouraging positive mental-health practices.

Tuesdays With Tyra allows students to connect with Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Tyra Hawkins in a fun and stress-free environment. Students have the opportunity to share their struggles and build community in a supportive space.

• Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024 | 3-4:30 pm | Solberg Hall
• Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024 | 3-4:30 pm | Solberg Hall
• Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024 | 3-4:30 pm | Solberg Hall

As part of a new initiative known as The SHOP, barbers are invited to Augustana's campus to provide haircuts and a space to hang out and de-stress. This event derives from the cultural significance of barbershops in Black communities as hubs of connection, conversation and community building. Come for a fresh haircut — stay for the camaraderie!

• Friday, Sept. 27, 2024
• Friday, Oct. 25, 2024
• Friday, Nov. 22, 2024

Co-hosted by the Augustan Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Office of Faith & Spiritual Life, and Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Indigenous People's Day is celebrated each year in October with a community gathering meant to educate, as well as foster understanding and appreciation for Indigenous heritage. This meaningful celebration honors the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

• 2024 Indigenous People's Day Celebration | Sunday, Oct. 13 | Time, Location & Event Details TBD

Each year in January, members of the Augustana University community come together for a week of events that celebrate three aspects of the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — faith, advocacy and service.

• 2025 MLK Week | Jan. 20-24 | Event Times, Locations & Details TBD

Each year, Augustana celebrates Mardi Gras in the Ordal Dining Hall (ODH) of the Morrison Commons. This event features authentic New Orleans fare, as well as the opportunity to dance to the beats of a live DJ and win prizes. Students will also experience the vibrant energy of a second line performance led by the AU Jazz Band, and much more!

• 2025 Mardi Gras | Tuesday, March 4 | 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. | ODH

Augustana's annual Womxn's Empowerment Luncheon celebrates Women's History Month in March. This inspiring event honors the achievements and contributions of womxn in various fields, featuring keynote speakers and networking opportunities over lunch.

• 2025 Womxn's Empowerment Luncheon | Wednesday, March 26 | Event Time, Location & Details TBD

The Festival of Cultures at Augustana celebrates the rich tapestry of traditions, music, food and art from around the world. The event includes live performances, food trucks, inflatables and more!

2025 Festival of Cultures | Friday, May 2 | 3-7 p.m. | Morrison Commons Patio

Cooking Across Cultures involves visiting various ethnic restaurants in the surrounding area to explore the culinary delights of different cultures. The project aims to delve into the traditional recipes and cooking techniques used by the chefs, as well as the inspirations behind opening their establishments. By talking to the chefs and gaining insight into their culinary backgrounds and cultural traditions, the project seeks to celebrate diversity and promote cultural understanding through the universal language of food.

The Freedom Writers Project is an opportunity for the Augustana University and Washington High School (WHS) community to share their truth, story, and social justice experiences. This project provides Augustana and WHS students an outlet to reveal their passion for change while educating others on the experience of growing up and living in a society that still doesn’t treat everyone equally.

Although the most visible part of the Freedom Writers Project is a contest that will publish the best-told stories, we hope the project penetrates our culture and celebrates diverse voices and forms of expression. 

Essays will be evaluated based on the richness of voice, storytelling ability, authenticity and how well one speaks their truth. Multiple prizes are awarded.