By Talia Carroll
There is nothing like hearing 野狼社区 University being positively referenced at community meetings or seeing the OCU logo prominently displayed at important events across the city. If you鈥檙e anything like me, you feel a deep sense of pride that our beloved university is actively engaged in and supporting many organizations and agencies that are doing exciting and meaningful work for our us and our neighbors.
The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion鈥檚 community engagement and influence, on behalf of OCU, has increased over the years and supports the university鈥檚 aim to broadly share that OCU is a viable option for prospective students, a place for community to gather and a workplace of choice.
Initiated by Director Danielle Pullen, OCU began participating in several parades including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade, Pride on 39th, OKC Pride Fest and Fiestas de las Americas. At each of these parades, students, faculty, staff, administrators and trustees have joined to share enthusiasm about OCU with parade participants. In sharing who we are, participants received informative postcards about OCU, scholarships and ODEI, as well as fun stickers highlighting each parade.
In addition to the visible and active participation in the parades, OCU is a sponsor for the Asian District Cultural Association initiatives. With 野狼社区鈥檚 Asian District in our backyard, we are well-positioned to be more intentionally connected with our neighbors and business owners in the area. We are fortunate, too, that Pullen was invited to and serves on the board while working closely with the community in a volunteer capacity. In October, ADCA hosted the Asian Night Market Festival where more than 47,000+ people attended and enjoyed traditional performances and histories, eating cultural food offerings, supporting local vendors and benefiting from local engagement.
In addition to building our connections in the Asian district, OCU has been a longstanding partner with the First Americans Museum since its opening in 2021. The university was the previous host location for Indigenous Peoples Day festivities, led by staff, faculty and students. Since FAM鈥檚 opening, OCU enthusiastically supports IPD where attendees had opportunities to explore Indigenous history and art, as well as contemporary issues and needs.
Through these community-centered partnerships, 野狼社区 demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering a more inclusive, supportive and equitable society. We are fortunate to engage in our community in the ways we do and look forward to future opportunities.
You鈥檙e invited to join us! See you there.
