The University of New Hampshire (UNH) has a variety of student-run cultural clubs under the umbrella of a larger organization called the Diversity Support Coalition (DSC). The DSC consists of student leaders who seek to promote and support multiculturalism, diversity and equity at UNH through education and advocacy. DSC houses seven member organizations: MOSAICO, Black Student Union, United Asian Coalition, Hillel, Alliance, Middle Eastern Cultural Association, and Native American Cultural Association. This coalition was established by UNH’s Albani J. Beauregard Center for Equity, Justice, and Freedom (BC), located in the Memorial Union Building.
Interested in joining one of DSC’s organizations? See each club’s unique mission below:
Led by chair Jojo Enelamah, BSU seeks to provide black students and allies with a safe space to gain knowledge, awareness and a sense of self. BSU seeks to educate the entire UNH community on issues relating to black culture, identity and social justice issues. “I believe the BSU Fashion Show Training is one of the best bonding experiences offered by a DSC organization,” said first year student and BSU Chair Jacques Katumba.
UAC, led by Chair Ram Prajapati, was established to provide a place at the UNH to celebrate the heritage and traditions of Asian cultures. The organization provides a safe zone for discussion of social justice issues related to Asians and Asian Americans. UAC hosts events like Night Market, East Meets and the Lunar New Year.
MOSAICO’s goal is to ignite passion and pride within the UNH community by celebrating the rich and diverse Latine and Hispanic heritage through fun, engaging and culturally immersive events and activities. Led by chair Byron Orellana, MOSAICO aims to foster an understanding and appreciation of vibrant traditions, languages, and histories of Latine countries by uniting people through shared experiences.
Middle Eastern Cultural Association (MECA)
Led by Nour Elhawawi, MECA is an organization aimed at and dedicated to promoting the Middle East’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. MECA serves as a place to foster understanding, appreciation, and learning about the Middle East’s countries’ history, traditions, arts and languages.
Native American Cultural Association (NACA)
NACA is a group dedicated to sharing the traditions and knowledge of the Indigenous people of America. Led by Layssa Rose, NACA uses recent stories, news, speakers and crafts to bring awareness to Native Americans. The club is welcome to all, including Native and non-Native students at UNH. “One unique aspect is our work in cultural revitalization and education on campus. We're focused on uplifting Indigenous voices at UNH, and we take pride in our collaborations with local communities,” said NACA Chair Layssa Rose.
Alliance is UNH’s primary LGBTQI+ student organization. Led by chair Jax Hout, Alliance is open to all regardless of identity or class standing. They are committed to making a safe environment not only for those within the organization, but to everyone who identifies as part of the LGBTQI+ community at UNH. Alliance hosts several large events throughout the year, including the spring semester ‘Drag Ball,’ and April Campus Pride Month. The theme for this year’s drag ball, held on Mar. 6 in the Memorial Union Building (MUB) Strafford room, is ‘The Marvelous Masquerade.’ Tickets can be reserved here.
UNH Hillel, led by chair Macy Kociubes, is a branch of the nation-wide Jewish organization, and is open to all students regardless of identity. During their meetings, Hillel discusses Jewish culture, upcoming holidays and plans events for the year. “In February, we have a B'nai mitzvah event with music, dancing, and food,” said Kociubes. Meetings, held bi-weekly in MUB 120, serve as a safe-space for those interested in immersing themselves in Jewish culture and traditions.
There are further organizations not under the DSC umbrella available to help students connect to their diversity. These organizations include, but are not limited to, the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA), Indonesian Student Association (ISA), Kasama Filipino Club (KFC), Desi Student Association (DSA) and Nepali Student Association (NSA). No matter who you are, there is a space for you in UNH’s community. More information about each club can be found on the DSC website and on their social media platforms, including date and meeting times.
