Multicultural Affairs

Sarah Lawrence students are a diverse group, coming from nearly every state, and 20 countries. They can find practical advice and assistance from the office of Multicultural Affairs/International Students, which works to weave an understanding of and appreciation for diversity into the life and teaching of the institution.

We address issues of race, class and gender in and out of the classroom, giving the community an opportunity to become involved through interaction among distinguished guests, faculty and students. A program of visiting scholars, speakers and artists drawn from the political, academic and social arenas brings a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives and insights to the campus community. Sometimes our visitors give lectures or performances, sometimes they engage in small group discussions or conduct master classes. In recent years, guests have included Lani Guinier, former Clinton nominee for the position of Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights and professor of law at the University of Pennsylvania; noted Japanese painter Naota Nakagawa; Marcia Gillespie, editor of Ms. Magazine; Saeko Ichinohe, a noted Japanese-American choreographer; and Derrick Bell, activist, attorney, teacher and author.

Our office also works closely with student clubs and groups to improve inter-group communication on campus, and helping to establish common ground for more fruitful dialogue.