Multicultural Student Center to hold orientation reception

The Multicultural Student Center (MSC) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison will sponsor the 27th annual Multicultural Orientation Reception (MCOR) celebration from 6:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Wisconsin Union Theater and Great Hall of Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St.

The event, which typically attracts more than 1,000 new and returning students, is free and open to the campus community. It gives students an opportunity to meet and make friends and build relationships with faculty and staff as they begin their academic careers.

This year’s theme is “Mind, Body and Soul: Making Every Experience Count.” The event will include performances by African Dance by the African Student Association, poetic songs of social expression by Son Jarocho, gospel singing by the UW Gospel Choir, Native American hoop dancing by Christina Bokas, spoken word performances by First Wave and traditional dancing of Pujab India by the UW Bhangra Dance group.

A highlight is the introduction of Damon Williams, recently named vice provost for diversity and climate, who will give welcoming remarks.

MCOR was first organized by UW–Madison staff in 1981 as a way to integrate students from underrepresented groups into the university community, says Candace McDowell, director of the MSC and event organizer. Since then, the event has drawn participants from an ever-wider spectrum of the campus community.

Since its inception, the MSC has been committed to providing academic and cultural resources and co-curricular activities that are essential in supporting the total development of each and every student of color on campus so they can achieve their educational goals in a supportive way.

For information, contact McDowell at (608) 262-4503.