Office of Student Cultural Connection programs
The Office of Student Cultural Connection offers programs and experiences designed to help students build relationships, explore culture, and find community on campus. Through celebrations, gatherings, and shared learning opportunities, OSCC creates spaces where students can connect, learn, and belong.
PACE Mentorship Program
PACE is an optional program open to all first-year and transfer students, designed to promote cultural understanding and a sense of belonging.
PACE is an acronym that stands for Preparation, Awareness, Community, and Engagement. The goal of the program is to prepare students for their college experience at Augustana; help students have awareness of their own identity and others; build a supportive community and encourage engagement with each other and Augustana.
PACE begins with an orientation program to provide students an opportunity to get involved on campus early, meet upper class leaders and mentors, gain valuable leadership skills, and meet other students with similar interests before Welcome Week orientation officially begins. Students look back at their participation in this program as a great start to their Augustana experience. → Learn more
Culture Houses Programming
Our office oversees three Culture Houses, Black Culture House, Casa Latina, and Asian Pacific Islander Desi American House. Each house is open during designated weekly hours and hosts regular programs that build community, and provide students with a welcoming home away from home. Through gatherings and shared experiences, the Culture Houses provide students with a place to rest, be themselves, engage with others, and feel at home.
Cultures in Motion
Cultures in Motion is a series that celebrates the diverse traditions, perspectives, and lived experiences that shape our campus community. Grounded in the belief that culture is an essential part of identity, this initiative invites students and campus members to experience and share cultures that are meaningful to who they are. Through creative and cultural expression, Cultures in Motion creates space for dialogue, cross-cultural learning, and connection, building bridges of understanding and strengthening community across cultures.
Culture & Connection Week
This week is celebrated in April during Celebrate Diversity Month. This is a time to recognize, embrace and celebrate the beauty of unique identities, cultures and the rich traditions that comprise our campus community.
Friday Connect
Friday Connect is a monthly gathering that brings students together in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Each month features a different theme, activity, or collaboration designed to encourage relationship-building, community and a sense of belonging.
Heritage Month & Identity Recognition Celebrations
Heritage Month & Identity Recognition Celebrations highlight the rich cultures and identities represented at Augustana. Through themed programs and collaborations, these celebrations uplift student voices, foster cultural pride, and invite the campus to learn, reflect, and celebrate together.
MLK Programming
MLK Programming invites the campus community to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by creating space for education, reflection, and action.
The OSCC will fully launch its programming in Fall 2026.