Over the coming term, InterCultural Student Initiatives will hold events for the College community.
Native American Culture and Heritage 2025
"Weaving Together Our Past, Present and Future" programming in collaboration with Native American Studies Committee, InterCultural Student Initiatives and Global Education
Native American Culture and Heritage celebrated annually in November, honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and other affiliated Island communities. Established by a 1990 joint resolution the month aims to educate the public, raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by Indigenous people, and celebrate their rich traditions, languages, and achievements in the face of adversity and achievements.
Events, descriptions and locations subject to change pending current construction conditions. Refer to the Events Calendar listed at the bottom of this page.
Photo Exhibit: Native American Culture and Heritage
Runs through Dec. 12 in the SRC Corridor, directly across from the Bookstore
Explore and engage in images and captions from past to present day stories, struggles and accomplishments that recognize Native American Culture. See a few familiar images and new historical aspects of Collective Native Heritage.
For further discussion regarding the images email Intercultural@cod.edu.
2025 Expressions Competition
Open to enrolled COD students. Submittals due by 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Guided a person, place or event representing Native Culture, students are invited to submit an essay, a story, a piece of art, music, video, poetry, or any other form of expression. The top three submittals will be awarded and their selections will be featured in the HUB (SSC 1138) for an entire month.
Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
To be eligible, you must be a currently enrolled College of DuPage student. Your expression will be evaluated based on its authentic impact and on how well it expresses your chosen content. Judging will not be objective – impress us with your knowledge, insight, and ability to communicate ideas and emotions.
Submissions
Submit your original work in any format (i.e. – Word document, MP3 file, YouTube video/link, photography, artwork in any medium, etc.). Include your name, student ID, email, and your chosen content (with author / artist cited), if it is not evident in your submission.
Submissions will be received at the InterCultural Student Initiatives office in Student Service Center (SSC), Room 1111 or via email at Intercultural@cod.edu.
Review and Award of Prizes
A panel will review and select the top three submissions, and each recipient will receive a monetary award. Award amounts may vary.
Deadline for all submissions: 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
**All written work must be substantive. Essays must be two pages minimum. Poems must be at least one full page, minimum.
Coffee and Conversations: Supporting Students Together
Join us in The Hub (SSC 1138) for an informal open space session to explore ways to support students and one another. Enjoy coffee and cookies while connecting with colleagues, sharing experiences, and gaining insights into student-focused support strategies. All COD employees are welcome monthly.
Open Space: Reflect, Process and Discuss
Join us in The Hub (SSC 1138) for a supportive, open discussion, where students can come together to share thoughts, listen and connect. This space is for COD students to discuss, reflect and support each other as a campus community. All students are welcome every Tuesday from noon to 1.
InterCultural Student Initiative Events
Contact Information
InterCultural Student Initiatives (ISI)
Student Service Center (SSC), Room 1111
David A. Swope Sr.
Manager, InterCultural Student Initiatives and Peer Mentoring
(630) 942-2565
Email: swoped28@cod.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Elizabeth Gómez de la Casa
Manager, Intercultural Student Initiatives and Student Support
Hablo español
(630) 942-3146
Email: gomezdelacasae@cod.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.