Clayton State University - Department of Campus Life

Department of Campus Life

Multicultural Programs and Services

DEEP (Diversity Educational Experiences for Peers)

MISSION
The purpose of the DEEP Program is to increase awareness and acceptance of diversity.
 
The objectives of the DEEP Program are to:

  • Enhance understanding of other cultures, heritages, and identities
  • Promote cross-cultural relationships
  • Raise awareness about social justice issues and underrepresented groups
  • Allow on campus student leaders to become more competent and active in the area of diversity.


PEER EDUCATORS

The DEEP Peer Educators are a group of student leaders that have been trained to facilitate the DEEP Program and other related diversity workshops for Clayton State students. DEEP Peer Educators are selected annually at the end of the Spring semester


QUALIFICATIONS

DEEP Peer Educators must be a full-time student with a cumulative 2.5 GPA or higher. Peer Educators must have completed twelve college academic credits from Clayton State University.
Commitment:

DEEP Peer Educators must agree to commit to conducting/organizing a minimum of two (2) diversity workshops, two (2) cultural activities, and one (1) sustained dialogue about diversity related topics or social justice issues per semester.

Peer Educators are also expected to assist with the implementation of the Diversity and Multicultural Conference and the Department of Campus Life multicultural programs and initiatives as needed. All members must attend the semester training session, weekly meetings and other opportunities for development.


RESPONSIBILITIES
DEEP Peer Educators compliment the diversity efforts of the Department of Campus Life. Peer Educators’ activities include conducting/organizing workshops for student groups, faculty, and staff; providing basic information about diversity issues; answering questions concerning diversity and social justice issues; and providing support to underrepresented and oppressed groups. Peer Educators are expected to promote the DEEP program to the campus community.

A typical semester will consist of at least five diversity projects (e.g. presentations, dialogues, cultural celebrations, movie viewings, etc.). DEEP Peer Educators must attend biweekly meetings conducted by DEEP Advisor and participate in personal and professional development opportunities that are identified by the DEEP Advisor.


STIPEND
DEEP Peer Educators will receive a stipend per semester upon successful completion of assigned duties and adherence to the provisions in the Stipend Contract.

Click here to download the application.
 

WORKSHOPS
The DEEP Program workshops cover a variety of topics addressing cultural similarities and differences, identity development, biased attitudes and behaviors, and social issues. The workshops are a great opportunity for students to become diversity competent leaders and citizens and to have meaningful dialogues with their peers.

Individuals that complete all four (4) DEEP workshops will be acknowledged as a Diversity Leader at the Annual Student Leadership and Involvement Awards Ceremony. Participation in the Annual Diversity and Multicultural Conference will count as one (1) workshop.
List of Workshops:


"Common Ground"
Participants will have the opportunity to explore and discuss their identities and develop awareness of the multiple aspects that make up personal and cultural identity. This workshop will help participants to understand who they are and build connections with others who differ in style, culture, background, or other areas of diversity.

Audience risk level: low-medium
Time needed: 45 minutes-1 hour
Location: Requires space to move throughout the room and lap-top connection.

"Just Because I Am, Does Not Mean…"
This workshop will explore how diversity shapes our thoughts and behaviors and the relationship between stereotypes and biased behaviors. Participants will gain awareness of their own stereotypes and how to counteract stereotypes that have been learned and accepted.

Audience risk level: medium-high
Time needed: 45 minutes- 1 hour
Location: Space must provide lap top connection.

"Privilege Walk"
This interactive exercise gives participants an opportunity to understand the intricacies of privilege in American society, and the ways privilege affects individuals in various situations.

Audience risk level: high
Time needed: 1 hour
Location: Requires space to move throughout the room.

"LGBTQIQ Exploration Workshop"
Participants will explore personal bias and stereotypes towards the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Questioning (LGBTQIQ) community; gain insight into the lives and experiences of the LGBTQIQ population; and discuss basic concepts and terms related to sexual and gender identity. Participants will also learn strategies on how to support and combat bias attitudes and behaviors towards the LGBTQIQ community.

Audience risk level: medium-high
Time needed: 1 hour
Location: Requires space to move throughout the room.


WHO CAN REQUEST A WORKSHOP?

  1. Faculty can request a workshop for their students in place of instruction or during his/her absence from class.
  2. Student organizations can request a workshop to train their leaders and members.
  3. Resident Assistants can request a workshop to train staff and improve cross-cultural relationships with residents.


HOW TO REQUEST A WORKSHOP
Complete the Request Form two (2) weeks prior to the requested date of service and email to multicultural@mail.clayton.edu or deliver it to Student Activities Suite, 223.

Click here for the Request Form.