February 25, 2002

The Office of International Affairs, including the centers for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Contemporary African Studies, European Studies and other services and programs, will begin reporting to the Office of Multicultural Affairs in June.

"I hope that through this addition we can begin to broaden the University's perspectives on multiculturalism, both educationally and socially," says Ronald Taylor, vice provost for multicultural affairs.

"With the internationalization of society, and the desire to provide our students with the ability to work in a global environment, this move makes sense," says Chancellor John D. Petersen. "Not only in terms of our students going to different countries and learning about different cultures, but also in terms of students from other countries and cultures coming to UConn. Putting all aspects of multiculturalism under one roof will help us reach that goal."

The Office of Multicultural Affairs is responsible for support, promotion, and coordination of the University's diversity efforts and is charged with the integration of multicultural goals throughout the University community. The office is responsible for oversight of the activities and budgets of UConn's five cultural centers, as well as institutes, programs, and other departments charged with assuring diversity and equity. It also is charged with providing policy advice aimed at ensuring that diversity-related issues are key considerations in all budgetary, administrative, academic, and governance decisions; and directing the University's diversity efforts to provide outreach and service throughout the state.

In addition to announcing the transfer of international affairs to Taylor's office, Petersen also announced that Cynthia Adams, associate dean and director of outreach in the School of Allied Health, has been selected as associate provost for multicultural affairs. A licensed psychologist and specialist in eating disorders, Adams also serves as a consultant, investigator, and lecturer on sexual harassment policies nationally, and has received awards for her work on women's issues and cultural diversity. Under her leadership, the school has offered major women's health conferences.

"I'm thrilled that Cindy is coming on board," says Taylor. "Her expertise in issues related to harassment and diversity are an excellent fit with our plans and goals."

Taylor also is welcoming a new center director, Stephanie Marnin, who started as director of the Rainbow Center Jan. 11. The Rainbow Center is a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender educational resource center. Marnin previously was an administrator in student affairs and residential life at the State University of New York's Albany campus.