Building Community and Advocating for Change
The Women of Color Collective (WOCC) at the University of Pittsburgh is a newly established organization dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for women of color on campus. Founded at the end of the 2022 academic year, WOCC has quickly become a vital part of the university community. Maria Hernandez-Castaneda, the Vice President of WOCC, recently shared insights into the Collective’s mission, achievements, and future plans.
Evolving Mission and Key Milestones
Maria explains that the mission of WOCC has evolved to focus on providing a strong support network that promotes academic, professional, and personal growth for women of color. “Key milestones during my tenure include expanding our outreach programs and increasing the visibility of women of color on campus through engaging events and advocacy efforts,” she says. This evolution is reflective of the dynamic and responsive nature of the organization, which continually adapts to meet the needs of its members.
Personal Journey and Leadership
Maria’s journey to leadership within WOCC began during her sophomore year when she took on roles such as Resident Assistant and joined her dormitory’s Hall Council. It was there she met Lauren Kotulka, the president of WOCC. “These new roles pushed me to open up more and build the confidence to represent women of color on campus,” Maria reflects. Her initial involvement in public relations for WOCC laid the groundwork for her current role as Vice President, where she continues to lead with passion and dedication.
Addressing Challenges and Fostering Community
Women of color on campus face unique challenges, including discrimination, mental health issues, and academic pressures. WOCC addresses these issues through discussion groups, social media engagement, event programs, and support networks that encourage growth and resilience. Maria emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive spaces where the diverse experiences of all women of color are acknowledged and supported.
WOCC has also been effective in fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity among its members. “We include our club members in our decision-making for events, which allows for better engagement and builds a much stronger sense of community and trust,” Maria explains. This collaborative approach ensures that the voices of all members are heard and valued.
Advocacy, Education, and Future Plans
WOCC engages in advocacy by participating in political actions around feminism and racial justice and working to influence university policies to better support women of color. Their educational initiatives include events like “Noodles and Narratives”, where short films from different cultures are screened and discussed, raising awareness and promoting understanding of diverse experiences.
Looking ahead, Maria envisions WOCC as a stronger, more influential network that continues to advocate for women of color. “We plan to sustain our work by expanding our programs, increasing engagement, and maintaining our supportive community,” she says. This vision includes hosting a luncheon with faculty to foster deeper connections and giving back to the community by painting a mural at a local breakfast spot, reflecting their commitment to making a lasting impact both within and outside the university.
Measuring Success and Personal Growth
Success for WOCC is measured through the engagement and satisfaction of its members, the impact of its programs, and positive changes in university policies supporting women of color. Maria notes that both short term participation rates and long term personal and academic achievements are key indicators of their success.
Maria’s involvement with WOCC has been transformative, shaping her personal and collegiate career growth. “It has prepared me to advocate for and support women of color both on and off campus,” she shares. This experience has also emphasized the importance of mental and physical wellness, mentorship, and leadership development within the Collective.
Conclusion
The Women of Color Collective at the University of Pittsburgh, under the leadership of dedicated individuals like Maria, is making significant strides in building a supportive and empowering community for women of color. Through advocacy, education, and inclusive initiatives, WOCC continues to address the unique challenges faced by its members while fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. As the organization grows, its impact both on campus and in the broader community is poised to deepen, ensuring that the voices of women of color are heard and valued.
To learn more about the program, you can follow them on IG at Women of Color Collective at Pitt (@wocc_pitt) • Instagram photos and videos
