S. Purcell Woodard, Ph.D
Associate Director
McNair Program and Early Identification Program
University of Washington
E-mail:  swoodard@u.washington.edu

“A student development plan:  The time is upon us.”
©2005

The time is upon us.
Develop a system designed to encompass
The concerns and needs of the whole student.
From academic skills sets
To social and cultural commitments,
Each deserves our full investment
Of time and energy.
And between you and me,
We need more than a student development plan.
Demand a pragmatic vision.
Foresight steeped in theory and informed action.
Simple acts are how we’ll proceed:
Dare to engage thoughtfully.
Be we positioned as diversity or minority,
Priority one:
Purposefully mentor students to become scholars
Committed to contribute to community.
Involvement is key.
Such journeys begin and continue in earnest today.
Specifically, we’ll critically explore the connection
Between you and me.
That’s personally, professionally, and programmatically.
These complex conversations will require genuine trust.
I say again,
The time is upon us.

“Welcome home!”
©2005

Welcome home!
We are the Office of Minority Affairs.
We understand that life ain’t no crystal stair.
Cares and worries left behind?
Just not a reality.
Trust that with us,
You’ll never have to check your identity
At the door.
Explore your new place, your new university.
Ahead of you, a wonderful, challenging journey.
You do not have to travel alone.
Make…your needs…known.
Our mission?
Meet you where you’re at.
Such revolutionary action requires that we honor your thinking,
Yet push you critically.
Translation:
We demand that you strive to achieve beyond your believed abilities.
We do so out of love,
With just a hint of urgency.
Responsibility connects us to each other,
As well as to history – past and present.
Know that in time you will find that we are advisor, mentor, advocate,
And simply put,
Friend.
Again.
Welcome home.
We are the Office of Minority Affairs.
Our time together will always be a family affair.