Learn about CILA’s mission, programs and team, and how it supports students’ personal and academic growth.
Mission
CILA supports you in exploring who you are, connecting with others, and growing through learning and leadership. CILA works with students from a wide range of cultural, social and educational backgrounds to build a strong sense of community on campus.
Through workshops, events and student-led programs, CILA encourages conversations about identity, culture and lived experience. These opportunities help you build confidence, expand your perspective and develop skills that support your success.
- Hosting events and workshops that focus on identity, culture and real-life experience
- Offering a welcoming space to meet, reflect and connect
- Supporting student leaders who plan and lead educational programs
- Partnering with campus groups, local schools and community organizations
Faculty and staff are encouraged to recommend CILA programs as part of the student learning experience. To explore how CILA events might connect with your course or department goals, contact the CILA director.
Learning outcomes
By participating in CILA programs, you will gain insight into yourself and others. Whether attending a single workshop or becoming more involved, you will grow as a learner, leader and community member.
When you who engage with CILA, you will be able to:
- Talk more confidently about your own background and experiences
- Listen across differences and ask thoughtful, respectful questions
- Notice when perspectives are missing and consider how to address that
Meet the CILA team
Mark Figueroa, CILA director
Mark leads CILA’s programs and partnerships across campus, working to build a strong sense of community for all students.
Contact Mark
Mandipa Masike, CILA advisor
Mandipa supports identity- and affinity-based student organizations and helps students get involved with CILA’s events and programs.
Contact MandipaGather at CILA
The CILA community space, located in Fistenburg Student Commons, Room 104, is open to all students. It offers a welcoming and student-centered environment designed for:
- Studying, relaxing or spending time between classes
- Connecting with peers and student leaders
- Hosting student group meetings or informal gatherings
- Accessing helpful campus resources
- Learning about upcoming events and leadership opportunities
The CILA space serves as a hub for connection, reflection and student engagement on campus.