Diversity Resource Center goes transparent

A new window has opened eyes to a valuable resource for Mt. Hood students.

During new student orientation on Sept. 19, R&H Construction tore out part of a wall dividing students from the Diversity Resource Center to install a window so that students can look in.

Construction was completed last week.

DRC Coordinator Melinda Bullen said many students chose not to walk into the center last year, perhaps assuming it was just another administrative meeting room, like the ASG council chambers next door.

A student who frequently studied in the Student Union last year finally inquired about the DRC recently, said Bullen, who believes the new view piqued his interest.

“I started advocating for an opening of some sort so students can see for themselves what this room is for,” she said.

The DRC is decorated with cultural artifacts. Maneki-neko (the Chinese lucky cat) greets visitors at the door. Bright tapestries hang from the walls and cultural-themed books reside comfortably on the wooden shelves.

Even though the inside of the DRC strives to provide a welcoming atmosphere, Bullen said students needed more of an invitation.

“To walk into a room that you have no idea about is uncomfortable, especially for new students who are already nervous,” she said.

The summer break proved to be an opportune time to install a window. The Student Union already was closed for construction work on its pipes and installation of new food service equipment upstairs.

It took workers two days to open the wall and frame the window, and one day to place the glass. They were able to build the frame with extra oak from MHCC’s own storage tunnel.

There are more changes coming that should improve visibility. A new window in the DRC door is on order and is expected to arrive in about a week and a half. A new ledge will be placed underneath, so students can pick up pamphlets and information when passing by.

“It’s about being transparent, literally,” Bullen said.

Since the larger window was added, nearly 20 students have entered the DRC, a significant jump from the zero visitors in the first week of last school year, she said.

“It’s amazing what something as simple as a window can do,” she said.

The Diversity Resourse Center is open to students from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.