INTRODUCTION
In alignment with Michigan Housing’s mission, the overall purpose of the Diversity Peer Educator (DPE) program is to assist in the development of a residential community that is inclusive and supportive of students of all social identities.
DPEs work to strengthen the living‐learning environment and strive to create an inclusive community by building relationships with residents and responding to behaviors that negatively affect the community and campus climate. DPEs serve as a resource for students struggling to navigate campus and conduct educational, cultural, social, and personal enrichment programs that promote diversity and inclusion.
DPEs have the unique opportunity to engage with program alumni and partners. This includes attending regional anniversary events, participating in networking and career development opportunities, and planning celebrations for the campus community.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION RESPONSIBILITIES (40% OF THE POSITION)
- Plan and facilitate diversity and inclusion training, workshops, and educational initiatives for the residential community.
- Serve as a resource for students who are struggling to navigate the campus community by referring them to appropriate resources and campus offices.
- Assist in conflict resolution, problem-solving, and crisis management related to identity within the residential community using restorative practices.
- Support the Multicultural Council by recruiting first-year students to participate, attending weekly meetings and programming, conducting monthly one-on-ones with the executive board, facilitating leadership development activities, and providing administrative oversight for the multicultural council budget.
- Occasionally represent Multicultural Councils, the Diversity Peer Educator program, or Michigan Housing during campus events and initiatives.
PROGRAMMING FOR THE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY(40% OF POSITION)
Each DPE will focus on programming for the residential community through the following opportunities:
- Develop and coordinate active and passive educational, cultural, social, and personally enriching programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the residential community.
- Host large-scale neighborhood programs that further the mission of Michigan Housing.
- Implement strategic first six-week engagement plans through signature programming, such as the Welcome Week Resource Fairs, and attendance at Welcome to Michigan events
- Collaborate closely with the M Housing Community Connections and Engagement Department and campus partners on creating, implementing, and evaluating ongoing educational programs that complement the You Belong Here campaign.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES (20% OF THE POSITION)
- Be a steward for M Housing Community Connections and Engagement Department resources, including The Connector and Multicultural Lounge Program.
- Build positive relationships with ResStaff through collaborations and supporting their programs and contributions.
- Participate in mandatory weekly ResStaff meetings on Monday nights and mandatory weekly DPE meetings on Tuesday nights.
- Follow the Inclusive Community Concern protocol, follow up with impacted residents, and work with ResStaff to support and rebuild the community using restorative practices.
Other duties as assigned by the M Housing Community Connections and Engagement Department.
TIME COMMITMENT
The position is a live-in 20-hour-a-week commitment; nights and weekends are required. Supervision of the DPE position and program is from the M Housing Community Connections and Engagement Department.
ELIGIBILITY
General eligibility requirements for all ResStaff positions can be found on this webpage. Priority will be given to students who will have completed four academic semesters by Fall 2025. DPE candidates should also notify [email protected] regarding special circumstances that may influence their cumulative GPA. Finally, in addition to ResStaff Training, DPEs must also be available throughout move-in and Welcome Week to fulfill DPE-specific responsibilities.
COMPENSATION
Compensation includes room and board; the meal plan provided is a tool to build community with residents. Please consult with the Office of Financial Aid to determine how the position compensation may impact your award package.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For questions regarding the position, please contact Ray Stewart, Senior Program Manager, Community Connections and Engagement, at [email protected]