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Connecting Through Shared Identity and Experience

In partnership with the Intercultural Learning Center, Affinity Groups present an opportunity for spiritual formation through small group gatherings united around a shared identity, such as men, women, athletes or culture/ethnic background.

Current Affinity groups at ÓûÂþɬ include: Monarca (Latinx Student Union) and Rooted (Black Student Union).

Students who identify as part of these respective affinity groups can connect with others for community and encouragement!

If you are interested in leading one of these Affinity Group, please check out the job description and .

Monarca: Latinx Student Union

Monarca offers a supportive space for students to connect around shared cultural heritage, faith and community. Grounded in the Christian values of fellowship and belonging, this group celebrates the richness and diversity of Latinx culture while fostering mutual encouragement and friendship. Through weekly gatherings, students can share their experiences, deepen their cultural and spiritual identity and build relationships that strengthen their sense of purpose and belonging on campus.

Rooted: Black Student Union

Rooted provides a welcoming space for students to gather in fellowship and community, celebrating shared cultural identity and lived experiences. Rooted in the Christian values of love, connection and belonging, this group offers opportunities for students to support one another, build meaningful relationships and engage in dialogue that affirms the richness of Black culture and faith. Through bi-weekly gatherings, students are encouraged to grow in community, identity and purpose while deepening their sense of belonging on campus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When do Affinity Groups meet?

Affinity Groups meet at various times throughout the week. Some might meet weekly, others meet every other week. For a current schedule of Affinity Groups and their meeting times, please download the Involve App or check out the specific Affinity Group's info.

Q. Who provides leadership to Affinity Groups?

Student leaders provide leadership to Affinity Groups under the direction of the Office of Spiritual Formation (OSF) and the Intercultural Learning Center (ILC). OSF and the ILC provide funding each semester for Affinity Groups to have food or other resources needed to support the group.

Q. How are Affinity Groups different than clubs?

Clubs are groups of students with shared interests and can be started by any student under the direction of Student Government Association. Click here to view the listed clubs.

Q. What do Affinity Groups do? 

The primary purpose of Affinity Groups is to gather students with shared identity and life-experiences in a way that helps facilitate community, friendship, and other resources. This might look like meeting for casual conversation, bible study, connecting with other staff, faculty, or community members that also belong to that group, or participating in a life-giving activity together. Affinity Groups also might provide other opportunities for service or weekend retreats.

Q. Can Affinity Groups be associated with outside organizations?

Yes, we are willing to work with outside organizations with the establishment of a mutually beneficial MOU.