By Kyle Kern Staff writer
In the lower level of Degenstein Campus Center there is a room beside the PSECU office that is a place of safety for many students on campus.
The room is routinely used by many students as a place to hang out and discuss various situations affecting them on campus or in the world.
That place is the Center for Intercultural and Community Engagement, a space that focuses on promoting the intertwining of cultures and providing an area that is open to everyone on campus.
The CICE has numerous places to relax and de-stress throughout the day. There are multiple couches, bean bag chairs, foldable chairs and a computer for students to use.
There are a few student employees who are often there to give out information and to talk to students who come in.
One of the student employees, sophomore Angelina Poole, has enjoyed the discussions that happen in the center and the different viewpoints that are raised.
“Even though it has only been my first semester, I believe it is a great place to get all sides on a certain topic,” Poole said. “In this place, people are able to stop and consider how and why different individuals think through situations.”
One of the many functions of the CICE is the “Let’s Talk” series on Tuesdays.
The series of talks are designed to open up a discussion of a current topic and allow anyone to join in.
The talks are usually located in the CICE, set up with informal seating arrangements, which allows the atmosphere to be light and creates a more tolerant area for the students involved.
Each week the “Let’s Talk” series features a different topic that involves the understanding of the voices of others who are underrepresented in today’s society.
The discussions begin at 11:30 a.m. and usually last about one hour.
The talks are facilitated by Assistant Dean of Intercultural and Community Engagement Dena Salerno, who is often joined by Susquehanna Chaplain Scott Kershner.
The two have said that they do this in order to show support to the underrepresented groups on campus and the Selinsgrove area.
Sophomore Yasmin Swain believes this to be true.
She said, “This space is a necessity for the campus because it gives the students who are less represented a chance to be able to have a voice and to be heard in discussions with your fellow classmates.”
The “Let’s Talk” discussion on Feb. 14 focused on a few topics that were relevant throughout the past two weeks, from the viral video of students vocalizing a racial slur to the cancelled protest at the senior basketball game and the events of Trump’s presidency.
The talks encompass discussions from staff and students, but more student involvement is encouraged.
Senior Joelene Joinvil said that it is important to have people attend these discussions.
She said, “The talks only work when students and community members come to the talks and hear other individuals’ opinions and stories.”
During the discussions there are normally refreshments and casual conversation before, during and after.
The CICE is holding a session called “Who is allowed to say the ‘N’ word?” on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 11:30 a.m. in Degenstein Meeting Rooms 3 through 5.
There will be a “Let’s Talk” dinner on Feb. 21 at 5 p.m. in Degenstein Meeting Rooms 2 through 5. This dinner will focus on respecting everyone’s political views.
Salerno said that everyone is welcome to attend. She encourages all students to not just attend, but to join in the discussion as well.
For more information about the “Let’s Talk” series, students can visit the CICE in the lower level of Degenstein Campus Center.
