IU South Bend opens new Center for Understanding, Belonging and Experiences
Photos // Ashley Bergeron
By: Ashley Bergeron
Staff Writer
On Nov. 12, administrators welcomed leaders of affinity groups and other students to the new Center for Understanding, Belonging and Experiences (CUBE) for an open house and reception.
The CUBE named Misel Ramirez Vasoli, also a multicultural counselor on campus, as its coordinator last month. While the space is still in development, students had the opportunity to explore it and learn more about its purpose.
Food was served and students spoke with Chancellor Elrod and Ramirez Vasoli, who gave a speech. Alumna Reagan Ayala and Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement Kory Vitangeli also shared remarks.
Students also participated in a collaborative mural by decorating wooden tiles, which will be hung in the space, and shared their ideas for what the CUBE should offer by posting sticky notes on a vision board.
“Regardless of who you are or what you believe in, the CUBE was created for you, the students,” Ayala said. “With the goal of serving as a space to facilitate discussion, provide resources and support, and as home for identity-based clubs, the CUBE was made to become a foundational piece of a student’s journey at IUSB.”
The CUBE is currently being transformed into the place that student leaders have expressed it should be. During this time, students are welcome to come visit the space, located in Administration 100, near the old Gateway.
There are talks of potentially holding another celebration once the CUBE is fully complete, but that will be decided at a later date. Check out the CUBE on Titan Atlas to keep up with future events or contact Misel Ramirez Vasoli at [email protected] to get involved.