The Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center serves as a backbone for student success at ETSU, featuring an inclusive environment that promotes diversity, engagement and leadership development.
Nathnael Tadesse, assistant director of the multicultural center, emphasizes the center’s role in advising and training diverse student organizations, particularly those with an ethnic focus.
The center has hosted a variety of events including guest speakers for its Black History Month series. Notable guests include Ken E. Nwadike Jr., known for his “Free Hugs Project,” and Bettie Mae Fikes, a gospel singer and civil rights activist who has championed equality since her youth in Selma, Alabama.
“She had a lot of stories that she shared with the students,” Tadesse said. “She shared how much they sacrificed to make sure that civil rights movements were continuous while guaranteeing the rights of everybody.”
Beyond events, the Multicultural Center provides critical academic support programs designed to help incoming freshmen succeed throughout their time at ETSU. The center also connects students, faculty and staff with various support services, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive.
For Women’s History Month, the center is set to host Critics Choice nominee Joyelle Johnson for a comedy show on March 1. Johnson, featured on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” will perform at 6 p.m., with admission open to all.
“People need relationships that are authentic, and when they have that connection, they flourish with their friends, their community and one another,” said Tadesse. “When people have good relationships, they can really do great things.”
Tadesse encourages students to engage with the center, whether by attending events, joining student organizations or utilizing the available amenities.
“Students are welcome to attend any and all programs,” he said. “If they want to be involved with any of the student organizations housed in the Multicultural Center, they are more than welcome.”
The center remains a focus for mentorship, networking and leadership. Students are encouraged to visit, relax in the lounge or take advantage of its resources. For more information, visit their website at etsu.edu/equity/mcc/.
