The Office of Diversity recently introduced a new initiative, providing an alternative place for students and others in the LSU community to study, unwind, meet others and familiarize themselves with the office’s resources and programs promoting diversity.
Dubbed “the ‘D’-Spot” by Vice Provost and Chief Diversity Officer Dereck Rovaris, the initiative’s initial session was held Jan. 29. It was the first of what will be a series of events held the last Friday of classes each month throughout the semester.
Those who attend future “D”-Spot events will be able to make use of the Office of Diversity’s space in Thomas Boyd Hall, help themselves to complimentary refreshments and play board games.
The next “D”-Spot session will be Feb. 26 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in 135 Thomas Boyd Hall, and is open to all students, faculty and staff, according to the Office of Diversity.
“We wanted to create a space and time for the students to come out and relax a little bit, study if they want, interact with each other,” Rovaris said.
The “D”-Spot — with the “D” standing for diversity — was inspired by the Office of Diversity’s fall Open House and “First Fridays” gatherings hosted for students by organizations such as the African American Cultural Center and Women’s Center, Associate Vice Provost Kenya Messer said.
The Open House shared new initiatives aimed at aiding those from underrepresented populations, while the First Fridays act as social gatherings ranging from discussion groups to restaurant outings where students can reach out and connect with others.
In addition to study space, attendees also have opportunities to speak with staff and familiarize themselves with the different programs the Office of Diversity has to offer, Rovaris said.
The decision to host the “D”-Spot on last Fridays was made after graduate students working for the Office of Diversity made note that similar study and social events were heavily stacked towards the start of the month, Messer said.
“Recognizing how stressful your lives can be and how busy you are, we just wanted to … provide an alternative space to be able to study and to relax,” Messer said.