Below is a comprehensive listing of the programs sponsored by OIR, organized by program type.
Cultural
Africa at ODU Day
Africa at ODU Day is an opportunity to educate students, faculty, staff and the community about current events and the cultural characteristics of the many countries on the African continent. Through student and faculty collaboration, the event highlights regional and national achievements in Africa in an effort to dispel the stereotypes that often are propagated by news headlines. This annual event includes country exhibitions, presentations by student and guest speakers, round-table discussions, reception and music.
The International Festival
The International Festival is a major production involving the Hampton Roads community. OIR hosts the International Festival in partnership with the Multicultural Association of Virginia (MAVA). The event, which is open to the public free of charge, has more than 30 organizations. More than 3,000 guests from the Hampton Roads area enjoy a day exploring the merchant vendor square that represents crafts and unique items from around the globe. Vibrant music, costumes, exquisite ethnic garb, and dance were reflected in performances that transported guests to the corners of the world. The International Children's Village with its exotic animals, creative craft stations, and awesome inflatables is an exciting global journey for the young and young at heart. The International Festival at Old Dominion University embraces our uniqueness and brings together our citizens of the world.
International Flavors
Each month, International Flavors takes our students, faculty, and staff to a fascinating international destination. Whether it is an opportunity to taste a unique food item from a specific region, or explore the cultural traditions from a remote part of a country, or dance to the music that is a cultural tradition, you can expect to have fun while learning about others that are different from you. As Monarchs, we learn how to Salsa, participate in an African drum activity, enjoy traditional music and performance from Greece, and engage in a Mexican tradition of skull painting.
Heads of the Family Dinner
The Heads of the Family Dinner is a semester event designed to bring together the Executive Boards of student organizations for social connections and to increase collaborative partnerships. It is our goal that this event will galvanize student groups to move beyond their cultural frameworks to plan events and programs that bring together diverse student populations.
Hip Hop Across Cultures
Hip Hop is a cultural movement expressed through the traditional elements of DJ-ing, emceeing, forms of dance such as breaking, popping, and locking and graffiti art. Hip Hop Across Cultures is an educational, yet entertaining venue that defines Hip Hop as a global culture that incorporates diverse languages, styles of dress, and political ideologies.
International Student Reception
The International Student Reception brings together our internationals, Monarch Mentors, student organization representatives and offices that provide services specifically for members of the international student communities. This relaxed atmosphere consisting of food, music and conversations promotes a university culture that engages in authentic interactions between and among diverse populations.
Educational
R.E.A.L. Conversation Series and the Human Experience Film Series
As one of the most diverse universities within the region, it is important to have opportunities for diverse groups to engage in meaningful dialogue and interactions that respect and value our unique perspectives. The R.E.A.L. Conversation Series and the Human Experience Film Series are innovative programs that bring students together to explore issues from a global perspective. Over the past three years, more than 1,000 faculty and students have viewed films and engaged in riveting discussions that bring us closer to the different experiences of others.
Diversity Series: Reality Dialogues
Reality dialogue provides opportunities for diverse individuals to discuss issues that impact a cultural group as revealed by panelists/speakers who are part of that group. Topics have included "What is it like to be transgender?" and "Dating Across Racial Lines".
Umoja Conference
The goal of the conference is to develop a forum that will address the needs of collegiate Black students. You will be able to attend three workshops of your choice on topics such as career/educational advancement, building positive relationships, health and much, much more!
Leadership
Diversity Institute
The
Diversity Institute at Old Dominion University enhances awareness, commitment, knowledge, and skills that are needed to develop leaders as change angents in a culturally diverse world. Semester-long sessions include modules and cultural learning labs that train participants on how to operate in a diverse multicultural and global setting. In addition to developing communication skills needed in a pluralistic society, the Diversity Institute is an excellent resume builder.
Student Leadership Retreat
Provides a cohesive venue whereby student leaders can enhance leadership skills, address emerging campus issues, and network/collaborate with other organizations in conjunction with the Office of Student Activities and Leadership.
Diversity Labs
Provides an active learning environment whereby student leaders can address and enhance their level of cross-cultural competence in conjunction with the Office of Student Activities and Leadership.
Black Woman's Council Program Series
A luncheon series with speakers that address Black women in various leadership roles.
Student Services Award Ceremony
The Division of Student Services honors and celebrates the accomplishments of ODU student organizations and leaders.
Life Skills
Black Male Summit
This event is designed to enhance the academic, cultural and psycho-social development of the Black male student population of the University. The summit workshops explore various topics that address specific issues of being young Black men in today's society.
Sisterhood Symposium
This event provides female studentswith information designed to augment their academic, spiritual, psycho-social and economic development. Other topics cover motivation, success, and relationships as they relate to African American women.
The Year of the Male
Consists of year long activities, programs and events designed to explore and address the psychosocial, academic, health, sexuality, spiritual, interpersonal, and the transitional dynamics of the ODU male community.
Professional
Emerging Professional 101
Provides assistance and feedback to students to enhance successful professional preparation (resume writing, application process, interviewing techniques, etc.).