Welcome reception helps students feel at home

The Center for African-American Students' Programs hosted its annual welcome reception for African-American students on Wednesday.

The reception, known as Harambee, allows students to become acquainted with student ambassadors, multicultural ambassadors, deans and other academic officers.

"The purpose of our office is to engage African-American students for the purpose of being highly successful academically," said Maurice Cooley, director for the Center of African-American Students' Programs. "Part of doing well is the person has to like where they are."

 The event also allowed new students the opportunity to become familiar with various extra-curricular activities, such as Greek affairs and sports.

"I think it's important because all the organizations and fraternities can get together and get new students to come out who don't know about these organizations," said Tasha Coleman, senior biology major.

The event consisted of a catered barbecue meal for students and faculty members.

"Harambee is important because more than anything it helps to unite the black community on campus," said attendee Briana Washington, Sophomore International Affairs major.     

In previous years, CASSP welcoming events consisted of a welcoming block party and Harambee. This year, the events were combined.

"‘Harambee' is a Swahili word that is interpreted to mean a person is a part of a family and is raised and nurtured by the family, not necessarily your biological parents," Cooley said. "Now that you're here at Marshall, you're raised by the whole family, which consists of faculty, administrators and all of your peers. You no longer have to think that you're here by yourself."

Katie Quinonez can be contacted at quinonez@marshall.edu